Wondering How to Become a Freelance Copywriter? Hint: Maybe You Shouldn’t

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I spend a lot of time on my blog and YouTube channel talking about how to become a freelance copywriter and how to start a copywriting business. But here’s the thing: maybe freelancing isn’t the way for you to achieve your copywriting dream. Perhaps getting a salaried position as an employed copywriter might be more your thing.

Confused? Hear me out by reading the blog post below. Or you can watch this video I did on the topic.

Reminder: I’m based in the U.S. (just outside of Boston). English is my first and only language. So the perspective I’m sharing is from this specific and somewhat narrow lens. If you’re in another country and/or English isn’t you’re primary language, I recommend finding marketers and copywriters in your area who write in your language since they’ll be better equipped to provide you with valuable insights on how to get started in copywriting (either as a freelancer or an employee). 

First of all, what is a freelance copywriter?

Let’s break it down. A copywriter writes the words that sell a product, service, or cause. That’s a super simple definition, but it works. Think about the stuff you encounter daily, like the junk mail you get in your mailbox promoting services, emails from the brands you follow, or the commercials you hear and see on the radio and TV. Someone needs to write those words, and that person is usually a professional copywriter.

Other names for copywriters include marketing writer, content marketer, and advertising copywriter—it runs the gamut.

When you add the word “freelance” in front of the word “copywriter,” that simply means the copywriter is self-employed. They’re not beholden to any one company, brand, or cause. They write for numerous brands, companies, and causes.

Sounds cool, right? If you love writing, and the idea of writing every day in your jammies sounds great, why wouldn’t you want to become a freelance copywriter? Who wants to work for The Man anyway?

Not so fast.

Like everything in life, there are pros and cons to being a freelance copywriter and pros and cons to being an employed copywriter.

Let’s discuss why becoming a FREELANCE copywriter might not be your best path.

Reason #1: If you simply want someone to give you assignments so you can do the work and get paid, then being a freelance copywriter might not be your jam.

As a freelancer, you often hustle to get work, especially in the beginning. Even if you do it for a long time—I’ve been at this for 20+ years—you still need to network, remind people you’re around, and sometimes knock on doors. That’s not for everyone.

Reason #2: If you’re not good at budgeting money and dealing with expenses, being a freelance copywriter might not be your thing.

As a freelancer, you don’t simply do the work, get paid, and call it a day. Guess what? You’re responsible for all the taxes. Yes, you pay taxes when employed, but someone else takes them out of your paycheck.

When you freelance, you must put money aside for taxes and remember to pay quarterly estimates. You need to keep your books super tidy and together. You need to manage invoicing, too. Clients won’t pay you if you don’t send them an invoice. It’s YOUR job to get the money from them, not theirs.

Reason #3: If having to manage paying for things like health insurance makes you twitchy, you might be better off working as an employed copywriter rather than a freelancer.

Being self-employed also means covering expenses like health insurance, disability insurance, and retirement contributions. These are responsibilities that employed copywriters might not have to worry about. Health insurance alone can be a significant monthly expense—I pay close to $700 per month, and that’s just for the price of admission (i.e., the insurance card). That price doesn’t include the cost of office visits, co-pays, etc.

Reason #4: You need structure in your day-to-day life.

If you’re someone who needs a ton of structure in your day—and you prefer to have that structure mandated with something like “We expect you to be in the office at nine, with a one-hour lunch, and clock out at five,”—then freelancing might be challenging. Sure, you might eventually be able to figure out a structure that works, but it will take time—and a lot of experimenting. (Check out my post on “A Day in the Life of a Freelance Copywriter.”)

This doesn’t mean you can’t figure out a structure for your day, but that’s just it. You’ll be the one figuring it out.

Reason #5: You prefer being part of a team.

Perhaps you thrive in a team environment, enjoy going to an office, and value collaborating with colleagues. This camaraderie is more likely in an employment setting. As a freelance copywriter, you’ll primarily be working independently.

Reason #6: You like working for a business/brand with a single focus.

As a freelance copywriter, I’m a generalist. I cover various topics, from beauty education to background checks. Being an employed copywriter might be a better fit if you prefer diving deep into one subject or brand. Freelancers can focus on a niche, of course. But when you’re starting, it’s common to generalize since you’re likely casting a wide net for new clients.

Keep in mind there’s no shame in being an employed copywriter.

Luckily, many full-time gigs are remote or hybrid, so you could have the best of both worlds if working from home is attractive.

As for the better way to break into copywriting if you have zero experience, I’m not sure there’s a definitive answer. You might have better luck landing an entry-level marketing job and building your writing skillset while earning a paycheck. But some people with solid writing chops (even if they don’t have “direct” copywriting experience) successfully build freelance businesses.

If you have experience as a copywriter but prefer working for a company, plenty of copywriting gigs exist in the U.S. (I just searched LinkedIn on “copywriter” jobs in the U.S., and there are over 2000 listings.) Yes, they are competitive, and you’ll need a strong resume and great clips, which you’d need for freelancing, too. Networking can help in this endeavor by seeing who you know on LI who’s connected to the company or brand you’re applying to so you can get a leg up, like a direct introduction. But landing a paid position can be a great way to build confidence, clips, and a great career.

Speaking of money . . . let’s look at some realities. Copywriting jobs can range from the mid-40s to over six figures in the U.S. If you’re entry-level, you’ll be on the lower side. If you’re a senior-level copywriter, you might command 90K to over six figures. According to Salary.com, the average copywriter salary in the U.S. is $57,000 (as I write this in 2023), but many things can affect this, from where you’re located to your experience.

Freelancing numbers are all over the place, and it’s easy to fall in love with the idea of six figures. Is it possible? Sure. Is it likely out of the gate? Honestly? Probably not. There are always exceptions, but you must be realistic. I share my revenue numbers over the last 20 years in this blog post for a reality check. I haven’t cracked six figures, but I’m perfectly content and make a decent living for my needs. Again, I’m in the U.S.

By the way, I know some full-time content marketers who freelance on the side. That can be a great way to have the best of both worlds while preparing for the unexpected, like a layoff.

So again, before you trot too far down the road of “how to become a freelance copywriter,” ask yourself if you SHOULD become one.

How do you determine which path is right for you? It boils down to your individual preferences, work style, and career goals.

If you’re drawn to independence, enjoy a diverse range of projects, and are ready to tackle the responsibilities of running a business, freelance copywriting could be your calling.

On the other hand, if you thrive in a team setting, value stability, and prefer a more structured workday, then seeking employment as a copywriter might be the better choice.

Remember, this isn’t a one-way street. Many professionals transition from freelance to employed positions or vice versa, finding the hybrid approach that suits them best.

Got a Question for the Copy Bitch?

That’s me! I’m the Copy Bitch. Contact me or visit my YouTube channel and leave a comment on one of my videos. I might make a blog post or video with the answer.

How to Fire a Client Nicely: Script Included

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Not every client relationship is all rainbows and puppy dogs. I wish they were. For your sake. For mine. For the poor rainbows and puppy dogs. But alas. Sometimes you need to break up with a client. It happens.

I’ve been a freelance copywriter since 2002. Over twenty+ years, I can count on one hand how many client relationships I had to walk away from. And none were “dramatic” breakups.

But that doesn’t mean I didn’t dread the process.

Just like breaking up in real life is hard, breaking up with a client can be challenging, especially as you anticipate how it will go. Not to mention, there’s a lot of stress around whether you’re making the right decision. You might wonder if there are indeed plenty more “fish in the sea,” especially in the age of ChatGPT.

But staying in a bad relationship out of fear isn’t a good strategy either. Sometimes we need to break up to break through, as the saying goes.

Below, I’m going to discuss the following:

  • Signs that something’s wrong in the client-freelancer relationship
  • How to know if the relationship is fixable
  • Determining a good time to fire a client
  • How to fire a client nicely (scripts included)

If you learn better by watching, here’s my video on this topic. Otherwise, scroll down for the text.

Signs that something’s wrong in the client-freelancer relationship

Do any of these scenarios sound familiar?

  • You dread opening the client’s emails or taking their calls.
  • You always put their work last on your to-do list.
  • You find yourself constantly complaining about a particular client.
  • You. Hate. The. Work.
  • You’ve considered giving up your freelancing business and returning to the workforce.

If you said yes to even one of the above, it’s time to evaluate the client-freelancer relationship.

How to know if the relationship is fixable. Questions to ponder.

  • What bothers you most about the relationship? Is it not what you signed up for? Something else?
  • Are you feeling resentful about money because you didn’t charge enough at the outset?
  • Has scope creep crept in?
  • Is the client emailing you at night and on weekends—and you feel obligated to respond?
  • Are you constantly chasing the client down to get things done?

The items above are all potentially fixable.

For example, if a client has been emailing during off-hours and you’ve been responding, you could say something like, “I know I’ve been responsive to emails on the weekend, but I’m taking a step back and creating more space for myself and family during off-hours. So if you email after 5 pm or over the weekend, I’ll respond the next business day.”

If you’re dealing with scope creep, you could say something like this: “After I complete X, I’d like to discuss the work going forward. The parameters have changed since I originally provided a quote. We can either go back to the original parameters. Or I can provide a revised quote for the additional work, and you can decide if you’d like to continue.”

Notice how the above language is firm and clear—but at the same time, it isn’t antagonistic. And it gives the client choices.

OK, for this exercise, let’s assume you’ve reached the point of no return with the client. You want out. What then?

When to fire a client

Is there ever a right time? Nope.

And you’ll find reasons to wait. Some will be practical. For example, you’re in the middle of a project and don’t want to leave the client in the lurch. Or you can’t afford to lose this client right now. Or you might have contractual obligations. (Note: I’m not a lawyer. Everything in this blog post is educational, not legal advice. An excellent place to learn more about freelancer contracts is the Freelancers Union, which is free to join.)

Just make sure those practical reasons don’t turn into long-term excuses.

Not everyone can fire a client, especially if it’s recurring work. (This is one of many reasons why diversification is essential. Losing one doesn’t hurt as much if you have several regular clients. If you only work with one or two clients and must let go of one, you’ll take a much bigger hit.)

If it’s a one-off job, it’s a little easier.

You can complete the project and politely decline any additional work. How you decline is up to you and your comfort level. While being honest and direct is best in an ideal world, we don’t live in an ideal world. You need to do what feels right and safe to you.

Here are some options on what to say:

  • “I appreciate the project we just completed together, but this isn’t the right long-term fit for me, so I’ll need to decline further work. I wish you and your business much success.”
  • “I’m afraid my schedule has shifted, so I can’t take on additional work.”

Regular clients can be a little trickier.

Of course, freelancers tend to stay in a bad client relationship because they don’t have any prospective clients to replace the crappy client.

But the work is out there. As I like to say, content makes the business world go round. Someone needs to write it. And I’m not talking about AI.

Here are some tips for replacing a client:

  • Turn to your current clients. Ask them if they have additional work that you can take on. You can say a spot opened up in your short-term schedule. This strategy can work well for larger companies or if you collaborate with marketing firms that juggle many accounts.
  • Turn to past happy clients. Make sure you stay connected with past clients (LinkedIn is a great place for this). You should get in the habit of checking in regularly anyway, even if you’re not looking for work. Keep in mind that the folks who’ve hired you in the past—often marketing managers or content managers or people with similar titles—they move around. So they could very well end up somewhere in need of a freelancer.
  • Attend networking events. I know, I know. Networking can be a dirty word, especially for introverted writers. But it’s how I built my business. Attend local Chamber events or consider joining BNI.
  • Apply to contract gigs. Peruse LinkedIn and Indeed job boards. Consult places like Media Bistro and FlexJobs.

As you’re courting a new client to replace your existing client, you might have to work more in the short term. But once you feel confident in the new client you’ve secured, you can let the other client go.

How to fire a client nicely (scripts included)

This doesn’t need to be complicated. Remember, this is business, not a romantic relationship. It would be easy for me to say that it’s not personal, but that’s not true—human beings exist on both sides. And we humans have emotions. So there is a personal element.

It would also be easy for me to say that you don’t owe anyone an explanation for your decision. But again, this is reality—and if you’ve had a long-ish relationship with a client, you might feel obligated to offer more of a reason.

Again, you’ll need to decide what you’re comfortable sharing. But think about people who give their two-week notice at work—people rarely, if ever, provide their reason for resigning. They simply give their notice.

An approach like that will likely work best in *most* situations.

  • Be professional, direct, and straightforward.
  • Remember, this is a business relationship—you’re not the first person to step away from this client. (Or if you somehow are, you likely won’t be the last.)

You can customize the scripts below however you see fit, but short, sweet, firm, and to the point are always wise strategies. Remember, if you add something like “Please don’t hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns,” this opens you up for just that—having them question you or possibly try to talk you out of your decision.

How to fire a client nicely script: Option 1

Dear [CLIENT NAME],

I’m making some changes in my business that are affecting my bandwidth. As a result, I’ll no longer be available for projects with [COMPANY NAME] after [THIS DATE].

I appreciate the work we’ve done together and wish you and the rest of the team well.

Note: I have a couple of colleagues who might be a good fit for your upcoming projects. If you’d like an introduction, just let me know.

[YOUR NAME]

(Include the “Note” only if you have colleagues who’d be a good fit—and who you checked with first.)

How to fire a client nicely script: Option 2

Dear [CLIENT NAME],

I wanted to connect about an update on my end.

After giving it much thought, I no longer feel I’m the best fit for the work you need. So this project will be my last. I do wish you and the team well moving forward.

I’ll send my final invoice at the end of the month.

Best,

[YOUR NAME]

How to fire a client nicely script: Option 3

Hi [FIRST NAME],

Due to personal and business challenges/changes, I won’t be available for copywriting work after [THIS DATE].

Thanks in advance for your understanding.

Best,

[YOUR NAME]

Got a Question for the Copy Bitch?

That’s me! I’m the Copy Bitch. Contact me or visit my YouTube channel and leave a comment on one of my videos. I might make a blog post or video with the answer.

Freelance Copywriter Invoice Template: Download Now!

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If you’re looking for a freelance copywriter invoice template, you’ve come to the right place. In my video at the end of this article, I discuss what needs to go on your invoice. But feel free to skip it and simply download the goods instead. Note: These files should be fine, but I’m not responsible if anything goes haywire with your machinery or devices, K?

Customize the template to your needs. Reminder: Be sure to check out my blog post on how to charge for copywriting services and how to invoice as a freelancer (the latter article goes into more detail about the process of invoicing). And, of course, you’ll find more helpful videos on my Ask the Copy Bitch YouTube channel.

How to Invoice as a Freelancer

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Many of the things I address on my Ask the Copy Bitch YouTube channel have to do with the day-to-day running of your freelance copywriting business. And how to invoice as a freelancer is a biggie. It applies to most freelancers out there, not just writers.

Don’t feel like reading? Watch the video at the end of this blog post.

How to invoice as a freelancer: When should you invoice?

You’ll typically invoice when . . .

  1. You complete a one-off project for a client. (Often a first-time client or a repeat client who you only work with every now and then.)
  2. At the end of every month for recurring/ongoing work with clients.

Balances should be due within 30 days of the client receiving the first draft.

When you’re doing a one-off project for a client, make sure you include a statement in your scope of work that says something to the effect: “The balance is due within 30 days of your receipt of the first draft.”

The reason why you want to tie balances to first drafts and not final drafts is because sometimes a client will drag their feet. What if it takes them months to sign off on the content you created? You shouldn’t be penalized for their slowness. By marrying the final payment to the first draft, you ensure you’ll get paid in a timely fashion. Plus, you’ll motivate clients to get cracking.

Revision requests should also be received within 30 days of the client receiving the first draft.

Again, for the same reasons: It motivates the client to complete the project. (And the last thing you want is a client knocking on your door three months from now with revision requests when you’re drowning in other work.) By keeping clear but firm deadlines, everyone can plan accordingly.

For ongoing work with clients, get in the habit of sending invoices at a regular time. I do mine once a month at the end of the month. But if you prefer doing your invoicing on the 15th or some other time, that works, too. Just be consistent.

Always get a down payment from first-time clients.

You should get this down payment before any work starts. I typically require 1/3 of the overall project quote as a down payment before I lift a pen or finger to the keyboard. You’ll reflect this payment on your invoice. More on this below.

How to write an invoice as a freelancer: What should yours look like?

It’s SO easy to get caught up in how things look. And I get that you want your marketing materials, like your website and business cards, to reflect your brand. And sure, if that’s easy enough for you to do with your invoices, by all means, make ’em look pretty.

But it’s perfectly OK to have something super simple. You don’t need fancy fonts or colors. I use one of the invoice templates from Excel and call it a day. And I don’t feel doing so has adversely affected me or my business. (Psst. Keep reading. I share a link to my invoice template below, which you’re free to use.)

Honestly, the simpler and clearer you make your invoices, the easier it is for the financial person on the other end who is processing them.

If you prefer using a product like Venmo, PayPal, or FreshBooks (to name just a few), that’s cool too. The most important thing is consistency. You need to work “bookkeeping time” into your schedule so that you can send them.

‘Cuz otherwise, you won’t get paid.

And that wouldn’t be good.

How to invoice as a freelancer: What should go on an invoice?

When it comes to creating your freelancer invoice, here are the basics you should include:

  • Your name (and company name, if applicable)
  • Address
  • Phone number
  • Invoice number
  • Date of the invoice (the date you send it)
  • An itemized list of the work you did
  • The associated costs for the work
  • A tally of all costs
  • Due date (I usually do 30 days from the date on the invoice)
  • Any other info a client specifically asks for, like a vendor ID #

I don’t include my social security number. 

My regular clients require me to fill out a W-9 for tax purposes. Then, they issue 1099s at the end of the year. Note: Not all clients issue 1099s. That’s on them. As long as YOU report all income, that’s what matters. (Again, I’m in the U.S. Follow the rules for your country. And BIG REMINDER: I’m not an accountant or lawyer, so nothing I write should be considered tax or financial advice. Consult a professional if you have questions.)

From there, I email the client the invoice (or to whatever email address they want the invoices to go to). I copy myself as well.

UPDATE: I’m updating this post in 2024. I’m now an LLC (limited liability company), so I have an EIN, which stands for employer identification number. That’s now what I use on the W-9s instead of my social security number. Becoming an LLC is smart. Want to know why? Check out this video I did about why I became an LLC (jump to 8:50).

When you start working with a client, ask them about their process for paying freelancers.

Companies often have specific steps you need to follow, like an accounting email address to send invoices to. Some might even have special invoice templates to fill out. Others might require you to create an account in the software product they use to process invoices. Just follow everything carefully and keep track of account names and logins. Usually, getting everything set up is the hardest part (and it’s not that hard). Once set up, it should be turnkey.

Whenever possible, ask for ELECTRONIC PAYMENT.

This means the client will deposit your payment directly in your business bank account. (And you should have a separate business bank account. Keep your business and personal lives separate.)

Getting electronic payment is quicker and greener (no paper, no envelopes, no need to visit a bank).

How to invoice as a freelancer: What happens if a client doesn’t pay you by the due date?

Follow up. I might allow a grace period of a few days. But this is a business. If you were late with your utility payment or car payment, you’d hear about it, right? So, follow up. Most of the time, it will just be an oversight where the invoice got lost in the shuffle. I’ve been doing this since 2002, and I’ve only been stiffed once. That happened very early on when I was a baby copywriter, and there were a bunch of red flags that I ignored. (And luckily, the amount was small, relatively speaking.)

How to invoice as a freelancer: How ’bout I show you my freelance copywriter invoice template?

But first, a disclaimer: I’m not responsible for anything that happens when you open links to the files below. They should be OK, but as we all know, weird stuff can happen during the translation, and files can become corrupted. Take heed!

Here’s a link to the freelance copywriter invoice template that I use (which I got from the templates available within Excel). The link opens an Excel template. If you can’t open it on your machine, here’s a link to a PDF of the same thing.

BTW, are you a new freelance copywriter by any chance?

Be sure to check out my other blog posts. I provide lots of education for newbies. Below are two of the books I always recommend to new copywriters. I use Amazon Affiliate links. If you use one of the links to buy something, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission. I only recommend stuff that I believe in. I own both of these books.

Got more questions? Ask the Copy Bitch!

Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel as well. You can also email me on my contact page.

Copywriting Pricing: Figuring Out How Much to Charge (Examples Included)

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Buckle up, kids! This is going to be a long-ish post about copywriting pricing and figuring out how much to charge for your services. I base everything on my 20+ years working as a freelance copywriter. If you’d prefer to watch a video, I include one at the end but note that it’s long, too. Honestly, this is SUCH an important topic that I suggest doing both: Read and watch. (Possibly more than once.)

Disclaimers: I’m in the U.S., in the Northeast, just outside of Boston. I can only speak to my experience. What you ultimately charge for your copywriting services will be influenced by the marketplace in your location, BUT THE CONCEPTS I’m discussing below should still apply, regardless. Remember, I’m not an accountant, a financial advisor, or a lawyer. This info is meant to be educational only.

Feel free to jump around, too, by clicking on one of these links:

One final thing before we get started . . . if you’re new to copywriting, be sure to check out these two books. 

I use Amazon Affiliate links. If you use one of the links to buy something, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission. I only recommend stuff that I believe in. I own both of these books.

Let’s get to it!

The biggest mistake new writers make when figuring out their copywriting pricing

They undersell themselves.

BIG time.

I get why, too. If something takes you a couple of hours to write, you might never dream of charging $400, $500, or even more, right? Because you’re thinking in terms of TIME instead of VALUE.

Make sure you understand (and embrace) the value you’re delivering to clients.

Remember, content drives sales. Content marketing is a 400 billion-dollar industry, and for good reason. Organizations use compelling content to lure in prospective customers—through emails, videos, podcasts, blog posts, landing pages, case studies, white papers, direct mailers, ads (both digital and print), and so forth.

Great content will help a company . . .

  • Build awareness about the brand
  • Boost engagement between prospects/customers and the brand
  • Convert prospects into customers
  • Keep existing customers engaged and interested so that they continue buying

At the end of the day, it’s all about sales, though.

And awesome content motivates people to buy, buy, buy.

But here’s the thing: When you develop a piece of content to help drive sales . . . it isn’t just driving ONE sale, right? The content continues to work. It doesn’t have an expiration date or shelf life—at least, not in the typical ways that we think. (It’s not like that lonely container of yogurt that got lost in the back of your fridge.)

Sure, a time-sensitive ad will have an expiration date, but you get the idea. Great content can have a long shelf life and it can continue to work on behalf of your client long after you bill them your one-time fee.

In other words: The content you create has immense VALUE. And you need to charge accordingly.

Now, let’s talking about setting rates.

Setting your copywriting prices: Example time!

Let’s pretend one of your clients is an acupuncture clinic—and that one of the specialties of this clinic is fertility issues.

The clinic hires you to write a series of blog posts about infertility and how acupuncture can help and/or be a complement to traditional treatment.

You and the client discuss possible angles for posts, you do keyword research, and you come up with the following titles, all of which contain a good keyword phrase:

  • How Can Acupuncture Help with Infertility? The title itself is the keyword phrase. It receives 10 searches each month and has wicked low keyword difficulty (KD). However, a phrase WITHIN that phrase (“can acupuncture help with infertility”) has 50 monthly searches and a KD of 51. So this title will work doubly hard.
  • Fertility Acupuncture: What to Expect. The phrase “fertility acupuncture what to expect” gets 30 searches a month, but ranks 23 on the keyword difficulty scale, which is very good.
  • How Long Does Acupuncture Take for Fertility? Again, the title itself is the keyword phrase with 40 monthly searches and 25 KD.
  • Questions to Ask Acupuncturist for Fertility. Ditto as above with 90 monthly searches and 23 KD.

The clinic loves the topics and signs off on them.

From there, you talk to one of the acupuncturists. You spend a little over an hour on the phone with her, but she’s able to answer all the questions you have regarding each topic, so you know the drafting of each blog post should go quickly. (You remember to record the interview so that you can have it transcribed on Rev.com. See my blog post on must-have copywriting tools!)

Now comes the drafting. You do some additional research to get current stats on fertility, pregnancy rates, etc.

You draft the blog posts and share them with the client. Each one clocks in around 750 words.

The client has some revisions. You do those.

Then, they sign off.

You’ve been really good about tracking your time, and you figure, on average, each blog post took 3 hours to do (and that’s including the keyword research, call with the client, additional research, drafting, and revising).

Let’s say you’ve been thinking about an hourly rate of $60/hour because heck—that sounds really great to you! Maybe in your old job working for an employer, your hourly rate was $30/hour. So this is DOUBLE!

$60 x 3 hours = $180 per blog

You decide to round up to $200 per blog. A nice, neat number.

And at 4 blogs, that comes to $800, which is a nice, neat payday.

Or is it?

Don’t undersell yourself when developing your copywriting prices

The NEXT part is critical for anyone who’s thinking, “Wait, that sounds reasonable.”

Here’s what you need to keep in mind—and here’s where I encourage a shift in your thinking.

Think beyond the tangible thing you’re creating—the blog posts. And think about the inherent value in each blog post.

Let’s say the blogs are performing REALLY well. You’ve chosen great longtail keyword phrases with low competition, as described above. You’ve done a great job writing them. You wrote social media posts for the blogs to help promote them even more.

And the acupuncture clinic’s site has seen an increase in web traffic, thanks to those blogs. And, on average, it can attribute two new bookings per month because of those blogs.

(Note: Blog posts are usually considered “top of the funnel” content, meaning they’re being used to educate people who are in the research stage, not quite the buying stage. This is usually true, but I’d argue that sometimes people are in both stages at once—they need education, but they also want—and are willing to—take action sooner rather than later. After some people read these series of blogs and poke around the clinic’s website, they reach out for an initial consultation and treatment.)

Now, let’s say the acupuncture clinic charges $125 for the first visit and $100 for each subsequent visit. And that the average fertility patient books ten visits (including the initial visit).

$125 + (9 x 100) = $1025

You could say the lifetime value of a fertility patient starts at $1025. I say “start,” because there’s a good possibility that a happy fertility patient might refer business to the clinic—or come back for treatments in other areas. So, in essence, each patient is worth even more than you might think.

You’re starting to see it, right? The disparity between what you’re thinking of charging for these blogs and what the acupuncture practice makes from having such awesome content—content that attracts people to the site and convinces them to make an appointment. (And you can apply this logic to all content marketing, not just blog posts.)

To recap the numbers . . .

  • You charged a one-time payment of $200/blog. For the series of four blogs on fertility issues, that’s a payday of $800.
  • The clinic makes, on average, $1025 per fertility patient. And over 12 months, it brings in 24 fertility patients, which are worth over $24,000.

Even if we just want to look at the initial visit per patient—24 patients per year multiplied by an initial visit fee of $125 is $3000.

See where I’m going? Your blogs have much more value to the customer than simply the “hours” you took to write them. Charge accordingly.

Now, I’m not suggesting your charge $24K or even $3K. But they are worth more than the time you put in.

Don’t forget important expenses when figuring out your copywriting pricing 

When you’re freelancing, your rates need to also account for other business expenses since everything is on your shoulders:

  • Taxes, like self-employment tax
  • Health insurance
  • Retirement

Often when you worked as an employee, those things were drawn out of your paycheck automatically. Now, it’s up to you to pay for them. Along with other business expenses, like computers.

See where I’m going? The blog content you create is worth more than simply the “hours” you spent doing it.

Bottom line: Avoid an “hourly” mindset.

Don’t give hourly quotes. Give PROJECT quotes.

Hourly quotes are dangerous for a couple of reasons.

  • First of all, you shouldn’t get penalized for being fast—or getting faster over time. You’re still delivering the same value, right? If something takes you two hours or six hours, as long as the value is consistent, THAT’S what matters.
  • Second, hourly quotes are stressful. For you. For the client. Too often, with hourly quotes, we fall into psychological traps. “Well, I quoted four hours, so I’ll take four hours.” But what if you could get it done in half that time? Think of what you could do with those other two hours? Now multiply that thinking across all the quotes you give over a week, a month, a year. Not to mention that clients can easily fixate on hours and lose sight of value. You don’t want to nitpick over this.

Project quotes let everyone breathe easier because everyone knows where they stand.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, especially if you’re new to this: “Well, Copy Bitch, this is all well and good, but I still don’t know how to charge for copywriting services. As in, what the heck should my project quotes BE?”

I got you!

Internally, you will need to develop a sense of how long it takes you to produce different types of content, on average.

Some of the stuff you’ll encounter as a freelance copywriter:

  • Blog posts, of varying lengths. Usually, you want to aim for at least 750/1000 words. Google rewards longer content. But readers also want to get answers to their questions/pain points. That doesn’t mean that there can’t be value in an occasional 400-word piece—there can be, but based on my experience, longer is better.
  • White papers (guides). The term “white paper” used to have a very specific definition 20 years ago (much more clinical/technical). Now, it’s often used interchangeably with “guide.” And that’s what it is. These can vary in length from a few pages to upwards of 20 or so.
  • Social media posts. I often write “batches” of social media posts for clients that we schedule out.
  • Copy for ads—digital ads, print ads, radio spots.
  • Video scripts. Everything from explainer videos to product videos to everything in between.
  • Case studies. Typically, you’re talking to your client’s customers.
  • Email marketing. Think longer newsletters, but also those simpler emails (sometimes text-based). You do more than simply craft the email copy, though—you write subject lines, preview lines, and the body copy.
  • Messaging/branding/content strategy. You might do an overall strategy or specific messaging campaigns that include several different components.
  • Content calendars. Often for the blog, but it can (and should) run the gamut of all marketing—webinars, podcasts, social media, premium offers (like guides).
  • Website copy. Full websites to specific landing pages.
  • Print pieces, like direct mailers and brochures. Yes, there’s still a place for these items in today’s marketing landscape.

When you’re getting started, sometimes you just need to take a leap of faith, give a quote, AND LEARN FROM THE WORK.

And here’s the thing: I’m about to give some of my numbers below, but keep in mind I’ve been doing this since 2002. If you’re new, I get that you might not have the confidence to give pricier quotes. Heck, I also get that the example quote I used above ($800 for the four blog posts) sounds reasonable to you. Especially if you’re doing work like that across, say, four or five clients a month. That’s decent scratch when you’re just starting out (or if it’s side hustle).

My point: Just make sure you are always considering the VALUE you’re delivering. Don’t let someone convince you to write for pennies per word. What you’re doing is so, so much more valuable.

Another point: When you’re starting out, sometimes you need to simply start getting money in the door. So I’d absolutely support someone doing four blog posts for $800—you’ll get solid clips to put in your portfolio and hopefully a client testimonial for your site and LinkedIn.

But over time, you should revisit the quotes. It’s perfectly OK and natural—and expected—to occasionally raise your rates.

You can also work on getting faster. Maybe you’re able to get into a good rhythm with a client and you can write awesome content for a blog post in a little over an hour. (It’s possible, depending on the client.) So aiming to get faster while still delivering the value is a great way to essentially give yourself a raise without even raising your quote for the client.

Give prospective clients a scope of work.

This will include the overall project quote. But it will also outline all the work that goes into the content you’re producing, like interviews, keyword research, drafting, and revisions. It will also state the timeline and financial terms.

Note: With first-time clients, always get a down payment. I ask for 1/3 of the project quote. (Don’t do any work until you get the down payment.)

The balance should be due within 30 days of the client receiving the first draft. Note the word “first” in italics. The reason you don’t want to require payment within 30 days of the client signing off on the final copy is because you could end up waiting a long time for payment. Like, what if the client drags their feet signing off on the copy? You shouldn’t get penalized. Asking for payment within 30 days of the client receiving the first draft also motivates the client to get you feedback about revisions, which brings me to my next point . . .

In your project quote/scope of work, tell clients they must request revisions within 30 days of receiving the first draft. Again, this motivates the client to stay on track—and helps move the project along. (Project management 101, people!)

Plus, it helps YOU plan. If you’re juggling multiple projects in various stages, you can plan your time accordingly.

Here’s a rough idea of how much I charge for copywriting services. Note: These are 2025 numbers.

Blog posts. I typically start at $500/blog post for a 1000-word post with one interview with a subject matter expert (SME) and basic research. The more work that’s involved, the more it costs.

Some blogs take me a couple of hours to write. Some might take me four. Not usually longer than that. You can do the math. $100/hour is a healthy rate for me and my needs—and for the marketplace I work in.

Remember, you’re delivering value. Blog posts especially have LONG shelf lives.

Email marketing. I’m anywhere from $75 to $100 per email. It’s worth noting that I give multiple subject line options and preview line options. And I typically provide an option A and B for the body copy. (Not all writers do this.) So if I’m writing a series of 6 emails, yeah—that could be $600. But again, the VALUE I deliver is there.

(We could start a drinking game with this . . . every time I write the word “value,” drink!)

Websites. I have a per-page range between $150 – $250/per interior page. For the home page, it’s $500. This includes everything: discovery call with the client, keyword phrase research, content/design strategy (usually a collaboration with the designer), basic messaging, and drafting each optimized page using SEO best practices. (Once you see all the work laid out like that you might be thinking, “Heck. Even $250/page isn’t enough.” You’re not necessarily wrong.)

The reason I do a per-page rate is because website projects almost always go off the rails. Clients will come in saying, “It’s only going to be an x-page site.” But once you dig in and provide strategy, that will likely change (and be more). But if you quoted on what they presumed the number of pages to be, you’ll be screwed. So I always give them a per-page rate. I will say something like, “Based on the current site we’re talking about, which looks to be this many pages, I expect the final quote to be around X. But this number can change if we add more pages.” (And, of course, during the drafting process, I would alert the client if it’s looking like there will be a significant increase in pages.)

Case studies. Effective case studies are usually short—think 1 to 2 pages, max. But they take A LOT of work because they usually involve talking to one of your client’s clients. I often start at $750 per case study (and I suspect I’m on the lower side).

Video scripts. Again, developing a script for a short video—like 30 to 60 seconds—might not sound like a lot of work, but it is. Especially since you usually need to think in terms of copy and video and provide directions for both. I’m anywhere from $450 to $750 per script (and I suspect I might be on the lower side, to be honest).

Don’t let short copy deceive you. Sometimes it takes more effort to write a compelling short piece—like a subject line, PPC ad, or case study—than it does to write something longer.

White papers. These can be tricky. I just wrote a 12-page white paper for a nonprofit. Roughly 4500 words. I’m charging $2000 (because it’s a nonprofit). But honestly, that’s probably more like a $4500 job, which would be roughly $1/word. Which feels right.

Content editorial calendars. I usually develop these calendars every quarter for clients. For a client that posts four blogs a month, I might charge anywhere from $350 to $500 for the quarterly calendar, which includes keyword phrase research, optimized titles, and a brief synopsis of the angle.

Messaging/branding/content strategy. This all depends on how deep of a dive the client wants. Are you talking to their customers and building out buyer personas first? Are you doing an audit of current messaging (on the website, for example)? Are you providing a fancy presentation or a down-and-dirty document with messaging recommendations? Even the latter requires many hours of work, so don’t undersell yourself.

The challenge with messaging projects is that some (not all) clients have a hard time wrapping their heads around pricey quotes since the “deliverable” will only be used internally. It’s an internal document rather than a customer-facing piece of content, like a blog post or website page.

Something else to think about: Are you part of a team—like a marketing department—and your job is more focused on language rather than an overall strategy? That could affect your quote. No matter how you slice it, quotes for messaging projects can get big, fast. You need to know what the client expects to be delivered. A down-and-dirty messaging doc for a small business might be in the $1000 range (or even less). A more comprehensive branding/messaging audit where you’re part of a team for a big company? You might charge $3000, even $5000, or more.

Print pieces, like direct mailers and brochures. Again, this can vary widely, depending on the size. A direct mailer that’s an oversized postcard might be $500. But if it’s a long direct mail sales letter, it can be much more than that. (That sort of direct-mail copywriting is a true specialty. It’s not something I do.) Brochures and catalogs—this also depends on the size. A simple tri-fold brochure might be $750 to $1000. The more pages you add, the more work that’s involved, so the bigger your quote.

A great resource to help you figure out your copywriting rates

I highly recommend downloading AWAI’s “State of the Industry Report on Copywriter Rates and Top Performing Marketing Methods.” And be sure to download the new report each year for important updates.

Closing thoughts on copywriting prices . . .

The most important thing you should take away from this article is this: Quote on the VALUE you’re delivering, not the hours it takes you to do a project.

Challenge yourself to get faster, while still delivering value. If you get faster with your writing—without losing quality—you’re going to give yourself an automatic “raise” without even having to get your clients to pay more.

Revisit your rates every year or so. Over time, you need to increase rates. For example, if you’ve been consistently charging $100 per website page, maybe you up it to $125 per page.

Be flexible and forgiving. When you’re starting out, you might opt to quote a little low until you build your confidence and to simply get some money in the door. There’s a big difference between quoting a little low and letting someone take advantage of you. Avoid the latter. And forgive yourself when you get a quote wrong. Learn from it.

My video on how much to charge for copywriting services

Want more great copywriting tips? Check out my YouTube channel.

If you haven’t already, mosey on over to my YouTube channel and subscribe. I share lots of copywriting tips—not just the hard skills, but also all the “soft” skills you need to run a successful biz as a freelancer.

How Do Copywriters Get Paid? (How to Pay Yourself When You’re Self-Employed)

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A bunch of years ago, a good friend of mine was thinking of making the leap into Copywriting Land. He’d been a journalism major in college, and he loved to write. (He was, and still is, an excellent writer.). After college, he detoured and worked for various small businesses in the retail and printing industries. When he saw I was making a living as a freelance copywriter, the writing spark inside him reignited. When he began to seriously contemplate making the shift to freelance copywriting, we met for lunch, and he came equipped with a bunch of questions.

And his first one? “How do you pay yourself?”

It was such a beautiful, vulnerable question. He’d worked for a paycheck all his life. And even though he’d been studying copywriting and content marketing in recent months and doing little side projects here and there, the whole concept of paying himself felt foreign to him. Like, HEY. How do I get them dollars I just earned into my bank account? Legally?

This brings me to today’s post .

How do copywriters get paid? How to pay yourself when you’re self-employed?

My goal here is this: SIMPLIFICATION. You can find plenty of articles, books, and tutorials on how to create profit and loss statements and/or how to use QuickBooks (or its equivalent) and all the various official definitions regarding small business bookkeeping. That’s NOT what this post is about. I want to simply show you how to think about money and your freelance copywriting business AT A HIGH LEVEL. And how I pay myself month to month.

In terms of your freelance copywriting business, think of three buckets when it comes to money.

  1. Revenue bucket. That’s the money coming in from paying clients.
  2. Expenses bucket. That’s the money going out to pay for your legit business expenses, like Internet and health insurance.
  3. Taxes bucket. That’s the money you pay to Uncle Sam and your state government.

For the purpose of this post, I’m going to assume you’re making a profit. As in, your revenue exceeds your monthly business expenses. Again, this isn’t a how-to article on bookkeeping or business terms.

And I realize if you’re just starting out, your business expenses might exceed your revenue, at least for a short while until you gain some traction. That’s OK. It’s expected. And even understandable. And the IRS has a whole way of determining whether your “business” is really a business or a hobby, based on how much you bring in year-to-year. But that’s a subject for another article by someone who holds the title of “accountant.”

Speaking of accountants, consider these two important recommendations:

  • Work with an accountant. Have them prepare your taxes and quarterly estimates. I recommend doing this from the start, even if you’re not making a lot of scratch. A good accountant will help guide you and make sure your T’s are crossed. It’s an expense, but not as expensive as you might think. I spent under $600 on mine last year. (Your mileage might vary depending on a bunch of factors, but I’m a big believer in being transparent with numbers whenever possible.) And that expense is EXACTLY that: a business expense that you can deduct the following year.
  • Work with a financial advisor. Specifically for retirement planning. (But they can help with your entire financial landscape.) Don’t put off contributing to your retirement. As a self-employed copywriter, IT’S ALL ON YOU TO WATCH OUT FOR YOURSELF. It’s OK to start small. Make it $25/month, if you can swing it. Then up that amount by 10 or 20 bucks every month or quarter. You won’t notice such incremental increases, but they will add up quickly. I have a standing directive with my financial advisor to keep upping my contribution every quarter until I tell him to stop.

But back to our topic: How do copywriters get paid? How to pay yourself when you’re self-employed?

As you work for clients, you will invoice them. (I’m going to write a blog post about how to create a copywriting invoice.) So the money—the revenue—comes in. Either via check or electronic payment.

You’ll deposit this into your BUSINESS BANKING ACCOUNT. My business and personal banking accounts are with the same bank for ease. And I use the bank’s online banking portal for even more ease.

You’ll pay your monthly expenses from your business banking account. ALL of my recurring expenses are automatically debited from my business banking account, from my health insurance to my cell phone to my IT maintenance. This makes end-of-year bookkeeping a breeze because it’s ALL done electronically and there’s a paper trail. I also have a business credit card for those one-off purchases I occasionally need to make, like a new computer or a new office chair.

Be mindful about taxes. In the beginning, you might not be making enough (again, consult an accountant!), but as you grow your business (because you’re going to GROW, right?), you will need to pay taxes. You’ll make quarterly estimates (and I recommend doing so . . . you’re supposed to do it, for one thing, but beyond that, it’s a much easier pill to swallow to spread the payments out over four payments rather than one big check in April).

You might have heard the adage: Think in terms of thirds. A third of the money you make will go to taxes, a third will go to expenses, and a third you get to keep (in your business account and/personal account; obviously, you need to keep a chunk of money in your business account, but you pay yourself from that dough as well). That’s a rough rule, but from a high level, not a bad way to think about it. As a freelance copywriter working from home, you’ll have fewer expenses than other small business owners, so you might not necessarily be putting a third toward expenses. (Again, your mileage might vary.)

OK, a reminder about my disclaimer: I’m not an accountant. I’m not a lawyer. And I never did successfully shimmy up the ropes in gym class. Oy!

I’m simply sharing my ways. Every month, I go into my business banking account and pay myself by transferring money to my personal bank account. This is known as a draw or an owner’s draw. (This article from NerdWallet talks about the owner’s draw.) I have a small range, but it’s usually the same amount month-to-month. From my personal account, I pay non-business expenses, like my personal credit card bill, which covers things like Panera (LOTS OF PANERA) and groceries or dinners out with Mister Word Nerd. You get the idea. Business is business. Personal is personal. But yes, I pay myself each month.

You could set up recurring payments through the online banking portal. You could also pay yourself every week or every other week. I choose to do it monthly. But you do you!

And I know the big question you’re asking is HOW MUCH should you pay yourself month-to-month? That very much depends on a variety of factors, like your personal expenses, how much you want to make, and how much you’re making in reality. See point #3 in this helpful article from Intuit QuickBooks.

Need more help on how to pay yourself when you’re self-employed?

More resources to check out:

Are you new to copywriting? Here are my go-to resources for learning the ins and outs.

I use Amazon Affiliate links. If you use one of the links to buy something, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission. I only recommend stuff that I believe in. I own both of these books.

Got other questions about running a freelance copywriting business?

Be sure to browse my Ask the Copy Bitch blog and my Ask the Copy Bitch YouTube channel.

Best Tools for Copywriters (My Picks for AI, SEO, and More)

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If you’re new to freelance copywriting, you’re likely on the hunt for tools and apps that will make your prose shine and your job easy. Step right up! I’ve been working as a freelance copywriter for over 20 years. Below, I share the best tools for copywriters.

Here’s what might surprise you about my list: Not all of these tools are writing tools. That’s because copywriters do so much more than simply write. For example, you interview subject matter experts. You edit. You do basic design (like YouTube thumbnails or PowerPoint presentations). The tools I’m sharing below include ones I use regularly in my life as a freelance copywriter. I’m also sharing info about tools you’re likely to encounter, particularly in the area of project management.

Before we get started, a quick note: I use the terms copywriter, content writer, and content marketer interchangeably.

I explain why, in-depth, in my post, “What is copywriting?” But here’s the short of it: Purists think copywriters are all about getting immediate sales, and content writers are all about engaging an audience. I say the goal dictates what you write and how you write it, not your title. For example, are you writing an email to people poised to buy? You’ll lean heavily into persuasion and sales tactics. Are you writing a blog post answering a “how-to” question related to your client’s business? You’ll write the content from an educational lens. But guess what? Everything you write needs to engage people.

OK. One more thing before we get started. Some of the items below include affiliate links, which means if you try or buy the tool after clicking a link, I’ll earn a small commission. But it won’t cost you more. I only recommend tools I use and believe in.

Ready? Let’s get to it . . .

Best tools for copywriters: Let’s talk editing.

Hello, Grammarly.

I used to rely solely on my own editing chops and the grammar and spellcheck in Microsoft Word. But Word changed its grammar and spellcheck somewhere along the way, and not for the better, in my humble opinion. So I began using Grammarly’s free version* for a while. Eventually, I became curious about the paid version. A year or so ago, I decided to give it a go and discovered it was ideal for my needs. (*That’s an affiliate link. If you sign up, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission.)

Do I follow all of its suggestions? Nope. (And you shouldn’t either.) These products are great at understanding the rules and pointing out when you violate the rules. But they’re not good at recognizing when you’re breaking a rule intentionally, which good writers do all the time. Still, Grammarly is excellent at catching critical errors, and it’s good at making me stop and think if the way I’ve deliberately written something is the best way.

When it comes to choosing the so-called “best” copywriting tools, you need to learn what works best for you. Whether you choose Grammarly or an alternative, you do need some sort of good grammar and spellcheck. (That’s true for all writers.)

Don’t skimp. And don’t think you’re above needing help.

Here’s the link to the free version. You got nothing to lose by trying it out. (Again, it’s an affiliate link.)

Best SEO copywriting tools: I use Semrush.

Writing blog posts and optimized website copy is my bread and butter as a freelancer. The main goal of this content is to bring people in via organic search.

This blog post you’re reading is a great example. You likely landed here because you searched on something like “best copywriting tools” or “SEO copywriting tools.”

That’s not luck on my part. It’s strategic. I use SEO copywriting tools, specifically keyword research tools, to uncover the best opportunities for optimizing a piece of online content so it will rank high in search results.

Semrush is my go-to tool for keyword research, competitor research, content ideas, and more.

Confession: I used to bristle when it came to conducting keyword research on my own. I preferred having the keyword phrases handed to me. Why? I didn’t always feel confident in my ability to look at numbers and stats. And earlier keyword tools (think the early to mid-aughts) weren’t as user-friendly (in my estimation) for regular folks like me. But they’ve come a long way, and in recent years, I’ve embraced doing keyword research.

But Semrush does so much more than keyword research. You can do site audits and backlink gap analyses. You can do competitor research. Plug in a competitor’s domain and see things like their domain authority score and ranking keywords, among other things. You can get content ideas and tips for improving existing content that has a great opportunity for performing better. It might be able to do your laundry, too!

Semrush might feel overwhelming when you first log in. I recommend reading these:

How much does Semrush cost?

Semrush offers a free trial and different paid tiers. I’m a paid subscriber because I conduct keyword research regularly for clients and myself.

I realize that cost might not work if you’re a new copywriter. Luckily, some good free keyword tools exist. So you can start with those if you’re just launching your freelance copywriting business. But if you find that you’re doing a lot of SEO copywriting, I recommend investing in a paid tool and figuring that cost into your client quotes.

Best AI copywriting tool: Let’s address the elephant in the room.

Ask 20 copywriters about AI and you’ll get 20 different opinions. The one thing I am confident about is this: No one knows with any certainty how AI will affect the copywriting landscape. Certainty only comes in hindsight.

But here’s my hot take as I answer this question in August 2024.

AI is not new, generally speaking.

But widely accessible large language models (LLMs) are, relatively speaking. ChatGPT was the tipping point because it’s the LLM that everyone started playing with and talking about back in late 2022.

But plenty of other AI copywriting tools existed before ChatGPT hit the scene, like Writer and Jasper.

I have experience with Writer (through a client) and ChatGPT Plus, which I pay for.

TL;DR: I think copywriters just starting out will do fine with the free version of ChatGPT. If you can swing the $20/month and you find you’re using it regularly, consider upgrading to ChatGPT Plus.

OK, so what about my experience with Writer?

With Writer, I had a “seat” on a client’s Writer account, so I was able to work with the product up close and personal. Can I speak to every feature? Nope. But I can tell you about my experience.

For writing purposes, I didn’t find it much better or different than ChatGPT for writing or Grammarly for editing. Writer did OK. It was fine. But I didn’t think it produced copy with that special something-something that makes copy sing.

The average reader wouldn’t have batted an eye at the output. But the whole point of hiring a professional writer is to elevate your copy. Most people can’t point to what makes a piece of copy special. But they know it when they read it. They can feel it. Good copy acts on a subconscious level. Training a machine on something like gut feel is impossible because it doesn’t have a gut. You need good writers for that.

(I will say this: When I hear ChatGPT talk aloud, its spoken voice is more nuanced than its written voice. So perhaps over time, the writing output from AI products will improve.)

Bottom line: In my experience, these AI copywriting tools write perfectly adequate copy but not special copy. They are excellent tools for doing certain things—just not writing fresh, original content.

And that’s exactly how I feel about ChatGPT, too, even though I consider it my go-to AI tool.

ChatGPT 4o is an excellent tool for many things except writing original content with an authentic voice (even with training). That’s where we’re at with it right now. But I suspect ChatGPT and other AI copywriting tools will get better with time.

However, and this is a BIG however, I don’t believe AI isn’t going to replace all human writers.

Sure, some folks will fall away. Honestly? They probably would have anyway.

But the reason I’m not especially worried about AI writing tools coming for me is because effective writing involves thinking. It involves understanding nuance. It involves understanding that sometimes breaking a grammar or punctuation rule makes sense because the writing simply sounds better. (Go re-read my blurb above about Grammarly. Grammarly is an AI tool as well.)

AI doesn’t think. (As far as I’m concerned, that’s a feature, not a bug.) Also, AI writing tools aren’t proactive.

For example, ChatGPT won’t be privy to the magical conversations you have with clients when they share a random aside and you think, “That would make a great blog post, video, or social media post.”

That said, ChatGPT is a great tool for copywriters.

Things ChatGPT does well that can help you with your work:

  • Analysis. For example, give it ten of your client’s competitors’ websites and have it create a short report on themes, keywords, and opportunities.
  • Brainstorming. From blog post titles to email subject lines.
  • Outlining. Short-form and long-form content.
  • Interview prep. I use it to help develop questions to ask subject matter experts.
  • Audience profiles/personas.
  • Transcript review/consolidation.
  • Feedback. Ask it to provide feedback on your writing.

The challenge is that not every business (even the big guys) will necessarily agree or realize that human writers are still needed. They might think all they need is an AI product. I suspect they will learn the hard way that having an AI tool isn’t enough. It’s a hammer. And you still need someone who knows how to wield the hammer. And even more importantly, you need someone who understands what it takes to build a solid house.

AI is a tool just like any other tool. 

Again, if you’re just getting started with AI, use the free version of ChatGPT. Experiment. Read up on how to prompt it. Practice your prompts. Review the output. Ask ChatGPT to revise. Practice using it for things other than straight content creation (see the list above).

But once again, that’s my opinion. Find the AI copywriting tool that makes sense for you. (Yes, I do think you should have one in your toolbox. You don’t want to get behind the curve. And these tools can do some things really well.) And if you find you like Writer, Jasper, or some other tool more, great! Use the AI tool that works best for you.

Other tools for copywriters

Zoom

I was using Zoom pre-pandemic, and I’ve loved it since the beginning. Why do I feel the need for conferencing software? Couldn’t a phone call work? Well, with Zoom, you can share screens, which comes in handy (for example, when showing a website mockup). Plus, I can record the calls on Zoom as well. I can also have multiple people join the call (which is sometimes necessary—I’ve been on calls with five or six people on the client side). Not to mention, most people are comfortable with Zoom (thanks to the pandemic).

I’m currently on the Pro plan, which works great for my needs and budget. You can certainly start with the free version, but beware there’s a 40-minute limit on phone calls. I can almost guarantee that you WILL have calls that go over 40 minutes, and it can be embarrassing or ruin the vibe when you have to pause and send out a new invite.

Note: I record ALL client calls. I always let them know and remind them that nothing will be used against them in a court of law. (This always elicits a chuckle.) Recording eliminates the need for me to frantically take notes (which I can never read anyway). Instead, I can focus on the substance of the conversation. I can also turn the recording into a transcript, which brings me to my next tool for copywriters.

Rev

I mentioned above that I always record my calls. From there, I upload the calls to Rev.com to get the recording transcribed. I’ve used both manual transcription, where a human listens and transcribes word-for-word, and AI, which does automated transcription. The two biggest differences between the two? Price and accuracy. Humans are much more accurate, but I have to admit the AI is pretty close (depending on how good the recording itself is—a client on a landline vs. in the car).

I tend to use humans for complex interviews involving medical topics (I write for a urology practice), but AI works great for almost everything else.

As for pricing, as I write this, the human transcription is $1.25/minute while the AI is .25 a minute. (And keep in mind that this is a legitimate business expense for a writer. I have a line item in my business expenses for Rev.com.)

Note: I’ve heard good things about Temi.com, another AI option.

Dropbox

I find Dropbox particularly handy for big files, like videos or print files.

If I have to share huge files with a client, I drop them into a Dropbox folder and share the view-only link.

For example, I work with a team in a marketing agency for one of my clients. We manage the clients’ employee headshot files, logos, etc. (there are lots of big files). Dropbox makes it easy for everyone, including the client, to have access.

  • PRO TIP: If you do a lot with video files, here’s a tip. To save space on your hard drive, make your video files available online only. You can always change a video file to “make available offline” when needed, but if you keep all videos available offline, they’ll take up hard drive space on your device. (I found this out the hard way when Bessie, my old PC, was limping along, and then I discovered making that simple switch fixed the problem.)

Canva

When I started out as a copywriter in 2002, I was a firm believer that writers should focus on writing and designers should focus on designing.

But that’s partly because we didn’t have awesome tools that could turn most people into decent enough designers. Don’t get me wrong: We absolutely still need professional designers. But copy and design work together, and more and more clients are looking for people who are more than just a one-trick pony. I’ve softened my stance as a result. There’s no reason why a good writer shouldn’t be able to lay out the copy for a white paper (for example) using software like Canva.

Canva has free and premium versions. I upgraded to premium last year because I was doing more with YouTube thumbnails and some other design initiatives. Canva has ready-made templates and designs awaiting your copy and finishing touches. I find it incredibly intuitive, too.

Slack

You’re likely familiar with Slack. I love it. I’m on various Slacks for clients, and it’s great for quick questions so you can avoid mucking up people’s inboxes.

I don’t pay for Slack; my clients add me to their workspaces.

Lettercount

Lettercount.com is quick, easy, and my favorite price: FREE. I’ve used this site for years. It’s just a box that does a quick character count. It’s perfect for double-checking meta descriptions, title tags, tweets, and anything else restricted by a certain number of characters.

Task management software du jour

This topic makes me chuckle and roll my eyes. Man, are there A LOT of project management tools out there. And you will be amazed at how many different ones you have to juggle. That’s one of the “joys” (she says sarcastically) of being a freelancer. You must be a project management chameleon and get on board with whatever your client is using.

In the last year, I’ve used . . .

I have another client moving to Smartsheets shortly.

Other names you’ll likely come across:

Seriously, google task management software, work management software, or project management software, and you’ll see other names, too.

I don’t have a favorite. Not that it matters if I did because it’s not about me. I must assimilate to whatever tool my client uses. (And if you work with a client long enough, I can almost guarantee that they’ll shift gears at some point.)

I’ll be honest. It can be a pain to use multiple platforms, each with its own quirks and features. Luckily, most are fairly intuitive. (And you can always google your questions and find videos.) And for the most part, as a copywriter, you’re only going into the tool to check assignments and upload or post your work.

Copywriting books: Here are my go-to resources for learning the ins and outs.

I use Amazon Affiliate links below. If you use one of the links to buy something, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission. I only recommend stuff that I believe in. I own both of these books.

Got questions for the Copy Bitch?

That’s me! I’m the Copy Bitch. Get in touch with me here.

Blogging and Copywriting: What’s the Difference?

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Listen, I get it. We want things to be clear. And simple. And well-defined. But in the loosey-goosey world of writing, some things overlap. Take blogging and copywriting. What’s the difference? Are they different?

Let’s discuss.

Blogging and Copywriting: What’s the difference?

It all comes down to purpose. Consider the person who starts a blog as a hobby, just to share their navel-gazing thoughts. That’s blogging at its purest, the true definition of a “web log,” which is where the word “blog” comes from.

The purpose is almost diary-like, right? The person is writing it mostly for themselves or a handful of friends and family. The person isn’t expecting to make money. They’re just . . . writing.

I’d never in a million years call that copywriting.

If the blog gains traction over time and the person starts treating it like a business, then the game changes a little.

See, blogging can be a subset of copywriting.

Refresher time: What is copywriting? At its simplest copywriting is any writing that sells a product, service, or cause. Your grandma isn’t going to hire a copywriter to blog about her garden, but the garden store down the street might very well hire a copywriter to blog for them.

The goal of the garden store’s blog is to capture people who are already googling relevant phrases linked to what the garden store is selling. The idea is that if you bring in someone to the site who is already searching for, say, “best mulch for flower beds” (1900 searches a month) thanks to a kickass blog post on that subject, the person might appreciate the value they’re getting from the article, stick around the site, and maybe order products, services, or the garden store owner’s latest book.

You get the idea. The blog post was written to answer a prospective customer’s specific question and engage them enough that they’ll come back or stick around and maybe one day become a customer.

As a freelance copywriter, I’ve written hundreds (and maybe thousands) of educational blog posts like that over my career. And yes, clients call me a copywriter. And yes, they hire me to write blog content.

That’s precisely why I consider blogging a subset of copywriting.

Now, you might be thinking, “An educational blog post probably isn’t going to get someone to buy right then and there, right?”

Right you are! Most prospects need more than one well-written blog post to convince them to buy. But that initial blog post still provides an important first step in their overall buying journey.

Jargon alert: People who are just starting their buying journey are in the “top” of the sales funnel. Our job as writers is to provide high-quality content to attract these folks who are likely doing searches in Google. Once we lure them to the site via the blog—and they hopefully take another action, like subscribe to the blog or sign up for email alerts—the goal is to stay in front of them and help nudge them down the sales funnel until they are ready to come out the other end as a customer.

Bottom line: I consider blogging an essential service that I offer as a freelance copywriter. In fact, I’d say blogging probably makes up 70 percent of my copywriting business. Today alone, I blogged about vaginal atrophy, social media screening services, how to market a senior living community, and tips for being successful in beauty school.

Blogging and Copywriting: Some Folks Will Say It’s Content Writing, Not Copywriting.

I use the terms copywriter and content writer interchangeably. The purists will tell you that copywriting is all about selling. It’s all about conversions. It’s all about shorter, action-oriented copy. The same purists will tell you that content writing is all about engagement. They’ll say the goal is to engage the audience, not sell.

But businesses don’t pay writers to write stuff merely to “engage” prospects and customers. Businesses have an ulterior motive: They want the sale. They want the customer. And they want to keep the customer. Businesses realize content marketing is a long game. But they wouldn’t put any money toward it if it didn’t ultimately lead to sales.

Understanding how copywriting works

Engaging people is part of the selling process, especially at the beginning when prospects are learning about the brand. You also need to engage people at the end of the sales process when you’re asking them to fork over their hard-earned cash. (If you can’t keep their attention, good luck getting them to take the action you want.)

Sometimes, you’re engaging people who aren’t aware of the brand, which means they’re probably not ready to buy yet or maybe ever. But still. The reason the brand bothers with “engagement” in the first place is because it hopes a good chunk of those “engaged” folks will become sales somewhere down the line.

It’s true that businesses (and writers) tend to focus more on engaging the audience than “hard selling” when people are just learning about the brand or they’re in the very early stages of researching solutions to their problems. It’s also true that writers will use more persuasive tactics in the content designed to get people to convert ASAP.

But good copywriters understand this distinction. They know how and when to write content that simply engages (like educational blog posts), and how and when to write engaging content that sells (like an email trying to get someone to “buy now”).

(And vice versa. Good content writers know how to sell. What we happen to call ourselves is semantics more than anything else at this point.)

How do Blogging and Copywriting Work in Real Life with My Clients?

When I blog for clients, I will . . .

  • Do keyword research using Semrush. (I highly recommend this tool and following the Semrush blog.)
  • Create a blog editorial calendar, one that works in harmony with all the other marketing initiatives the company has for the quarter.
  • Talk to subject matter experts, as needed.
  • Research, research, research.
  • Draft the blog post and social media posts to promote the blog post (and sometimes newsletter content to promote the blog posts as well).
  • Monitor traffic/engagement.
  • Revise/refresh past blog posts, as needed, based on analytics.

So, to recap: blogging can be an important subset of copywriting. And if you decide to enter the wonderful world of freelance copywriting, I can (just about) guarantee that you’ll do your fair share of blogging.

Are you new to copywriting? Here are my go-to resources for learning the ins and outs.

I use Amazon Affiliate links below. If you use one of the links to buy something, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission. I only recommend stuff that I believe in. I own both of these books.

How to Get Copywriting Clients in 2025: Tips for New Copywriters

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You’ve done it. You’ve taken the time to learn what copywriting is, and you’ve set realistic expectations about earning potential, especially in the beginning. You’ve hung out your virtual shingle, but now you’re wondering how to get copywriting clients.

I remember those fraught early days (ahem, I mean years) when I was trying to figure out the answer to that question. Plenty of YouTube gurus might have you convinced that all you need to do is take their course and you’ll be writing for brands you love in 30 or 60 days. And who knows? YOU might be a unicorn and have instant success.

But for the rest of us? It’s probably more of a slow burn.

I’m here to tell you that this is normal and to stick with it. It took me five years before I was making an income that could pay the rent. (Here’s how much I made from copywriting in the early days, and here’s how much I made from copywriting in 2023.)

The steps I outline below might seem basic, but I followed many of them to great success.

The key to building a business is consistency. You have to keep at it and focus on doing things that will move you forward rather than the stuff that makes you feel like you’re busy and productive, even though you’re just spinning your wheels.

But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s discuss how to get clients when you’re a new freelance copywriter.

How to Get Copywriting Clients in 2025

1. Focus on people you know who own a small business or who know someone who does.

I can almost guarantee that you know someone who owns a small business (and probably more than one person). Or your friends and family know someone.

Here’s the thing: Small businesses need marketing and writing help. Remember, copywriters do so much more than simply write. You must understand marketing, and to successfully compete today, you must be willing to do other things besides writing. Become adept at layout and design using Canva. Become a wiz at keyword research. Learn WordPress.

If you know someone who owns a business, reach out to them. Explain you’ve launched a freelance copywriting business and would love to talk to them or someone in the marketing department. Say this: “Even if you don’t have a need right now for marketing writing, I’d still love to connect.” <<< This is key. Once you start talking to people and they begin to understand the depth and breadth of what you do, you will most likely get some bites.

It might not be buckets of money or big projects that sustain you for months. But I began by doing lots of little projects for small businesses. And the best of those projects went into my copywriting portfolio.

It’s important to give examples of the work you do and to clearly articulate all types of writing you do from websites to emails, social media posts to print ads. Why? Most folks who hear the word “copywriter” don’t know what it means. Even within the world of copywriting, people have vastly different definitions. When it comes to defining copywriting, I tend to take a broad view. To me, it’s any writing that markets a product, service, or cause. Synonyms include content marketer, content writer, marketing writer, and website copywriter (to name just a few).

If the business in question has a marketing manager, ask for an introduction. That’s the person who would assign you a project. If it’s a one-person shop, the goal is to let them know how you can make their life easier with their marketing. Are they having trouble getting out a monthly newsletter? Creating an engaging website? Keeping up a lively social media presence? Let them know those are the sorts of things you can help with, either as one-off projects or ongoing monthly work.

The ultimate goal is to get regular monthly work. If you can blog a couple of times a month for a client and do their email marketing newsletter, that’s a nice piece of work you can count on, month-to-month. From there, build and get other clients who give you similar work each month. Mix in one-off projects as well.

And lest you think focusing on small businesses is a fool’s errand, consider the monthly search volume for these phrases, according to Semrush, my go-to keyword research tool.

  • small business copywriter – 210 searches per month
  • copywriting services for small businesses – 50 searches per month

And that’s just the beginning. Nope, not everyone who searches on those phrases is necessarily looking for a copywriter who can work for small businesses. But I’m willing to bet some are, which brings me to my next point.

2. Optimize your website for copywriting niches.

Lots of copywriters ask if they should focus on a niche. When it comes to your website, I say yes. If you have expertise in a specific area—maybe it’s medical writing, beauty writing, retail, whatever—you can parlay that expertise into paying gigs by optimizing a service page on your website around your area of expertise, aka your niche. This doesn’t mean you have to only focus on this niche. Nor does it mean you have to introduce yourself as a “beauty copywriter” on your home page if you want to expand beyond that area.

But! I’ve seen plenty of hyper-focused searches on “X copywriter” (where “X” is a specific area or specialty, like beauty copywriter or food copywriter) with low competition, meaning you could create a kickass service page on your site about that area. And instead of pounding the virtual pavement trying to figure out how to get copywriting clients, the clients can find you online.

And good news, kittens: I’ve written a juicy post about optimizing your site for copywriting niches.

3. Network, network, network.

You have options. When I first started out, I joined Business Networking International (BNI). BNI is a commitment—it costs a pretty penny to join—but the value is that you’ll be the only copywriter occupying a seat in your chapter. The idea behind BNI is to generate referrals for one another—a “givers gain” philosophy.

PRO TIP #1: Before joining a chapter, visit it (I believe you can do so two times). Every chapter is a little different. You want to get a sense of the vibe—and whether you’d be a good fit.

PRO TIP #2: Look for chapters with complementary colleagues. By that I mean:

  • Web designers
  • Graphic designers
  • Marketing specialists
  • PR consultants

Those folks need writers—and writers need them. So you create this little power “sphere” of activity where you can bond and help each other out. The web designer who is wooing a prospect can say “I have a great writer who can create SEO copy for you.”

The key to BNI success:

  • Show up. You must attend weekly meetings, often at 7 AM.
  • Do the one-on-one meetings. BNI encourages you to meet one-on-one with people in your chapter so that you can get to know them and their needs—and vice versa.
  • Be willing to serve as a substitute in other chapters. Being active on the sub-circuit means you can expand your reach and visibility even more.
  • Participate in leadership roles. I recommend holding off on this until after you get your bearings, but leadership roles can offer even more opportunities.

Other networking groups:

  • Chambers of Commerce – These often have after-hours meetups and breakfast meetups. The key to maximizing your Chamber membership is making sure you push yourself to take part in these events.
  • Women’s organizations, like Polka Dot Powerhouse
  • College alumni organizations
  • Marketing organizations
  • Meetup groups

4. Keep tabs on marketing firms/agencies.

Many of today’s marketing agencies like to have a stable of freelance copywriters. (And once you prove yourself invaluable, you will quickly rise to the top of their go-to list).

PRO TIP: Look for true firms/agencies, not one-person shops. Check out their careers section. They often list what they’re looking for (and if they’re looking for writers).

Be careful about sending a cold email. If they’re not advertising for freelancers, they might not need them. While it probably won’t hurt to send a polite email, it’s always better if you have some sort of intro. This is where LinkedIn can come in. Look for connections in common and ask for direct intros whenever possible.

A good roundup of agencies that “get” content creation: the HubSpot Solutions Directory.

5. Create relevant alerts on job curation sites that promote freelance work.

The sites below are good places to create a presence and subscribe to relevant job alerts.

Some sites have paid subscriptions, which might be worth trying when you’re starting out (or if you find you have luck with a particular service). The key with these sites? Being the first to pounce on listings. So that adage about the early bird most definitely applies.

6. Make sure you connect with everyone you meet on LinkedIn.

So when you reach out to those business owners, connect with them on LinkedIn. Connect with the marketing managers. Connect with the people you meet when networking. Connect with clients once they officially hire you.

PRO TIP #1: Always send a personal message along with the invite.

PRO TIP #2: Stay in touch. Every quarter, say hi through LinkedIn and remind them you’re there. You’re priming the pump so that when they do need a writer—or they’re talking to someone who does—your name is the first one that pops up. This is a longer-term strategy, but it’s important.

7. Ask happy clients for referrals.

Have you just done work for a client and they loved the results? Ask them for a referral to fellow business owners they know. And/or look at their LinkedIn connections and see if anyone catches your eye. Then, ask for an intro.

8. Get friendly with other like-minded writers.

This might sound counterintuitive. Aren’t “other writers” the competition? No! There is more than enough work out there for everyone—honest. Content makes the online world go round, so there’s no shortage of work. And remember, you’re just one person and there are just so many hours in a day.

I regularly have to turn down work (and this isn’t meant to sound boastful, either). So becoming friendly with writers you can refer business to—and who can do the same for you—is another smart strategy for how to get copywriting clients. Keep in mind that everyone brings their own specialties to the table. I’m not keen on financial writing, but I have two friends/colleagues who are awesome in this area, so I refer to them. (And they have both referred to me.)

A word about content farms/content mills . . .

Should you work for content farms? The short answer is (like so many things in life): It depends. My biggest beef with content farms is the incredibly low pay (we’re talking pennies per word), which devalues the important work writers do.

That said . . .  when you’re starting out, and you’re trying to drum up examples to include in your copywriting portfolio, working for a content farm *could* be a way to get clips and to learn how to work quickly without losing accuracy. My general advice: It’s OK to do it in the short term and/or to have it be one piece of your revenue mix. At some point, you’ll outgrow the farm, and that’s OK—and a good goal to strive for.

On a similar note, DON’T fall into the trap of working for only one or two clients. Diversification is critical. If one client goes silent (or worse—out of business), you’ll be in trouble and scrambling. But if you have a diverse roster of clients and one goes down, you won’t be in panic mode. Yes, you’ll look to fill the open spot, but you won’t be struggling to pay the rent.

Are you new to copywriting? Here are my go-to resources for learning the ins and outs.

I use Amazon Affiliate links. If you use one of the links to buy something, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission. I only recommend stuff that I believe in. I own both of these books.

How to Start a Copywriting Business: Beginner Tutorial

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So, you’re wondering how to start a copywriting business. Groovy! Step right in, and I’ll share what I know based on my 20+ years working as a freelance copywriter.

Here’s what I’ll be covering. Feel free to click on the links and jump around.

WAIT! Are you sure you want to be a freelance copywriter?

Listen, I get it. The idea of being a writer sounds romantic: Tapping away on your keyboard at a corner café whilst drinking espresso, writing from anywhere on the planet, crafting copy for brands you love and who adore you back, and making six figures to boot? DIVINE.

And don’t get me wrong: I do see the occasional freelancer writing from a Paris café and talking about their six-figure income.

But the reality is most of us work from a spare bedroom, in the basement, or at the dining room table surrounded by bills, pets, and other humans while wearing yoga pants, emptying the dishwasher, and folding clothes in between Zoom calls with clients.

As for how much “most” copywriters make? Sure, some are in that vaulted six-figure territory. But most of them didn’t get there overnight or within six months or a year.

The rest of us hang out in the average arena, including me. (Here’s how much I made from copywriting in 2023.)

See the featured snippet below from Salary.com.

Featured snippet from Salary.com citing the average salary for a freelance copywriter in July 2024: $59,610.

Too often, I see people considering freelance copywriting because of the romantic vision or the promise of six figures rather than asking themselves, “Hey, do I actually like writing?” and “Am I any good at writing?”

If you want to make a successful go at running a freelance copywriting business, YOU MUST LOVE WRITING.

There’s no getting around this. You either love writing. Or you don’t.

If you were that kid in high school or college who loved getting assigned term papers, that’s a good sign. Because being a copywriter basically feels like you always have a term paper due. All the time. 52 weeks. Even during the summer.

So, be honest with yourself. If you don’t love writing but you’re intrigued by some of the things you’ve been hearing about copywriting and content writing, know this: There are still plenty of other jobs in the digital marketing realm that are creative and fun and allow you to work remotely.

WAIT! Are you sure you’re ready to be a freelance copywriter?

OK, so let’s say you love writing.

YAY!

But are you any good at it?

Again, be honest with yourself.

Do you know in your gut your writing is solid? Have people other than your mother, lover, or best friend told you you’re a good writer? Have you written in some professional capacity? Maybe as part of a past job (even if your job title wasn’t “writer”)?

Listen to your gut. You should know if you have writing chops or not.

OK, so what if you love to write, but your skills are a bit rusty?

Good news! Writing is a learnable skill. Some folks come to the table with natural talent. Others have to work hard at learning the mechanics of grammar and punctuation. (And yes, you need to know those things. You can’t break the rules until you understand what the rules are.)

Here’s the thing: If you love to write but your writing skills need work, stop, drop, and roll toward your nearest resource and shore up on the fundamentals before you worry about starting a copywriting business.

Here’s a good place to check out: The Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL), particularly these sections:

The Purdue “OWL,” as it’s known, is world-famous, and it’s my favorite price: FREE.

In terms of physical resources (books!), here are my recommendations.

Note: I use affiliate links for some of them. If you use one of the links to buy something, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission. I only recommend stuff that I believe in.

✅ A Writer’s Reference by Diana Hacker and Nancy Sommers. (Amazon affiliate link.) I have the fifth edition, which is excellent. I’m thinking about upgrading to the 10th. Hacker was incredible. She died in 2004, but her memory lives on.

✅ Dreyer’s English: An Utterly Correct Guide to Clarity and Style by Benjamin Dreyer. (Amazon affiliate link.) Another gem. I gave this one to Mr. Word Nerd.

OK, so what if you’re a solid writer, but you know zero, zilch, nada about copywriting or content writing?

Good news there as well. Copywriting and content writing are learnable skills, too.

And even better? Everything you need to learn to be a good copywriter and content writer is available online for free. (Or for books you can borrow from your local library.) There are also some good paid courses out there.

Be wary of copywriting gurus who tout their courses that promise to teach how to learn copywriting in 30 days. I have no doubt these courses work for some people.

But most folks need a slower pace.

That’s why I created a 14-week “course” on teaching yourself the basics of copywriting, content writing, and digital marketing. Click on the YouTube description to access all the materials.

I also recommend two books for new copywriters.

Again, I’m using Amazon affiliate links. It won’t cost you more if you buy, but I earn a small commission if you do buy. I only link to stuff I believe in. I own both of these as well.

✅ The Copywriter’s Handbook by Robert Bly (Amazon affiliate link)

✅ Using Behavioral Science in Marketing: Drive Customer Action and Loyalty by Prompting Instinctive Responses by Nancy Harhut (Amazon affiliate link)

The first book is the one I turned to when I got started in 2002. Bob Bly is a legend. I moved a couple of years ago, and I lost my copy in the process. So, I bought a new copy this year—the improved and fully updated edition.

And Nancy’s book on behavioral science is a GEM because it’s so comprehensive.

What is involved in copywriting?

I use the phrases “copywriting” and “content writing” interchangeably simply because the lines between them have blurred over the last twenty years.

Simply put, copywriting is any writing that sells a product, service, or cause. That’s the ultimate goal. But the “selling” aspect can be extremely subtle, depending on what the writer is drafting. For example, an educational blog post for people doing research about a problem isn’t going to scream, “Buy now.”

But if the content is truly helpful and engaging, the hope is the person reading it will stick around and read another article. And another. And follow the brand on social media. Or download a piece of content or subscribe to receive updates. Over time, the person might convert into a sale. But it all began with that blog post that a writer wrote. Whether you call the writer a copywriter or content writer is irrelevant.

Cranky critics will tell you that content writing is all about engaging, and copywriting is all about selling. Here’s the thing: All writing must be “engaging.” (Otherwise, what’s the point?) The content writer engages the reader in the hope that someday they’ll become a customer, client, subscriber, voter, whatever.

Smart writers understand that different pieces of content have different goals. That blog post I mentioned earlier? The goal is to educate. That sales email trying to upsell an existing customer? The goal is to get the sale, so I’d use more persuasive tactics as a result. But both pieces must engage first. Good writers use multiple tools from a comprehensive toolbox to get the job done, not just one tool, like a hammer.

As a freelance copywriter (content writer), I create the following:

  • Blog posts
  • Social media posts
  • Content editorial calendars
  • Sales decks
  • Sales emails
  • Marketing emails
  • White papers
  • Guides
  • eBooks
  • Print collateral
  • Radio spots
  • Case studies/customer stories
  • Brand and messaging exercises

That’s not an exhaustive list, either.

Still with me? Feeling excited by all the different types of content you’d be working on?

Keep reading.

WAIT! Are you sure you’re ready to be a business owner?

Being a freelance copywriter involves more than just writing. You’re a business owner, which means you’re responsible for things like marketing, contributing to retirement, and paying taxes, just to name a few items.

You must also . . .

  • Be good at managing your time.
  • Be good at managing finances.
  • Be good at managing multiple projects at once.
  • Get comfortable with networking and marketing yourself.
  • Know how to hustle.
  • Be smart about protecting yourself and your business
  • Be flexible. Digital marketing has evolved considerably since I entered the game in 2002. And now, with artificial intelligence (AI) like ChatGPT, who knows how much will change in the next one, three, or five years?

Running a small business and being your own boss isn’t for everyone. Consider this featured snippet from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Featured snippet that says, "18% of small businesses fail within their first year, while 50% fail after five years and approximately 65% by their tenth year in business."

 

Keep in mind that you don’t need to freelance “to be” a copywriter, either. Some might argue it makes more sense to work as an employed, W-2 copywriter or related role first before striking out on your own. Why? You’ll develop connections, get experience, and get those all-important portfolio pieces, too.

Again, there’s no right or wrong answer here. You must decide what’s best for you.

How did I become a freelance copywriter?

I’ve always wanted to be a writer. Writing fiction was (and still is) my dream. I took a detour during my senior year of college and worked for a Boston radio station for several years. My final role was promotions director. During my radio tenure, I learned a lot about marketing and marketing writing.

When I left radio, I decided to focus on freelance copywriting, figuring that could pay the bills while I worked on The Great American Novel.

It wasn’t nearly as neat and tidy as that last sentence makes it sound. When I started my copywriting business in 2002, I cobbled together my existence by juggling a bunch of things: part-time radio work, teaching, copywriting, and even working as an activities assistant in a nursing home for a short stretch.

It took me five years before I made a full-time income doing only copywriting. I’d do a lot of things differently if I had to do it all over, of course.

How to start a copywriting business

OK, so you’ve figured out that copywriting is for you—and that you have the necessary skills to write effective marketing copy.

Now, you’re wondering about the next step: how to start a copywriting business.

Disclaimer: I’m not a lawyer or an accountant, so whenever I talk about money or taxes, think of it as general information rather than specific guidance. Also! I’m based outside of Boston, Mass. I can only offer my perspective based on my experience in the U.S. Your mileage will vary depending on where you are, but the ideas below should provide a good springboard.

Make sure you have enough financial padding while you get your business off the ground.

Nothing is more stressful than trying to build a business with one eye on a dwindling bank account. Starting a freelance copywriting business isn’t expensive, but making it financially viable takes time.

So, you’ll need something to fill the gap, like . . .

  • A supportive spouse/partner or family that covers living expenses while you build your business (that’s what I did—I moved back home with my folks and stayed there for seven years)
  • Savings to cover expenses for the next six to nine months (or, if you want to be more conservative, call it a year)
  • A part-time job or other side hustle. I also did this! I continued working in radio on the weekends and holidays, and I taught for a couple of years.

 

Determine how much you’re willing to invest in getting your copywriting business off the ground.

This is beyond the financial padding I mentioned above.

Listen. Starting a freelance copywriting business is one of the most economical businesses you can start. You don’t have employees and payroll. You don’t have a physical storefront (so no rent, utilities, etc.). You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment.

But you will need to budget for some things, like . . .

  • Computer (including a backup, ideally)
  • Email/Internet
  • Insurance (like professional liability, disability, and possibly health, depending on your situation)
  • Software like Microsoft Office, Dropbox, Grammarly, Zoom, and Canva (you might not need all of those items, and you can find and use free alternatives, like Google Docs)
  • Legal fees (at the outset for things like creating your contract—more on this below)
  • Bookkeeping/accounting services

My point: You need some sort of operating budget. You absolutely can start your copywriting business on a shoestring budget, but you will have some one-off expenses and ongoing monthly expenses.

Decide if you’ll operate as a sole proprietor or limited liability company (LLC).

Many freelancers start out as sole proprietors. That’s what I did, but I would definitely do things differently now.

If I were launching a freelance copywriting business today, I’d launch as an LLC, and here’s why: An LLC can better protect your personal assets. If you’re sued for, say, copyright infringement, your business assets would be in play, but not your personal assets, like your car or home.

(Note: I became an LLC in 2023.)

Other benefits of being an LLC:

  • Some potential clients might see you as more professional or legitimate.
  • Some businesses might only be able to work with LLCs, not sole proprietors (I’ve seen instances of this).

The good news is that becoming an LLC isn’t a heavy lift:

  • You register as an LLC through your state (there’s a filing fee).
  • Report beneficial ownership information to the U.S. Treasury. THIS IS A NEW REQUIREMENT. It’s a one-time thing (and it doesn’t cost anything), but if you create an LLC, you have a short window for reporting this info, and penalties are stiff if you don’t.
  • You file an “annual report ” each year, which sounds a lot more daunting than it is—it essentially just confirms that you’re still operating as an LLC.
  • Sole proprietors and single-member LLCs (which is what freelancers usually opt for) are treated the same way in the eyes of the IRS in terms of taxes.
  • If you’re a single-member LLC, the way you keep your books, pay yourself, and all that stuff stays the same.

The protection an LLC offers is worth it, IMO. We live in a litigious society, and in the age of (even more) claims of copyright infringement and plagiarism, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your personal assets aren’t up for grabs.

AGAIN: I’m not a lawyer or an accountant. The above is merely meant to be educational in nature, not financial or legal advice. Always consult a professional about your circumstances.

Here’s a good article from NerdWallet on how to choose between being a sole proprietor and an LLC.

Think through your sales process.

Your sales process will be fluid, especially in the beginning. But! You should think through the items below.

How are you going to charge clients? (This ties in closely with how much you want to make.)

I recommend using project quotes instead of hourly or per-word rates. A project quote communicates value rather than something that’s simply transactional.

What do I mean by value? The content you create for clients continues working for them long after you’ve cashed your check. There’s an inherent value in blog posts, white papers, website content, etc.

Plus, with project quotes, everyone knows where they stand, and you won’t get penalized for becoming faster and more efficient, which will happen organically over time or the longer you work with clients.

Need more guidance? Here’s my in-depth post on how to charge for copywriting services.

What about your copywriting contract?

Always have a contract. Here’s the thing: If you want a contract that’s going to hold up in court, you need a lawyer to ensure you’ve got all that magical legalese in there.

I know, I KNOW.

You’re a writer. Can’t you write a straightforward contract that will just “work” if both people sign it?

You’d be surprised at what you’ll miss.

And resist googling “what to include in a freelancer contract.” You will not know who wrote the contract or how well it will work for your situation.

It’s much better to use a lawyer, and this doesn’t need to be a big expense (but it will cost something).

How will you invoice?

Hint: It doesn’t need to be fancy. You can even download my freelancer invoice template if that helps.

Should you focus on a niche?

You’ll find no shortage of opinions, and the reality is, there’s no right or wrong answer—only what’s right for you. What to keep in mind as you noodle:

If you have natural expertise or knowledge of a certain industry, focusing on a niche might be one way to drum up business. For example, if you have a medical background—maybe you worked as a nurse or medical assistant—you could focus on medical writing (or make that one of your service offerings). If you have an engineering degree, you might have success doing technical writing or writing for engineering or manufacturing firms. You get the idea. Lean into your strengths.

The other benefit of focusing on a niche: You might be able to bring targeted traffic into your website. I wrote a blog post on copywriting niches (the post includes a video that demonstrates my thinking).

Choose a business name.

Sounds so simple, but you need a name, a brand identity, something to hang your hat on. We could go down a rabbit hole about strategies for naming a business.

For your purposes, I wouldn’t overthink it. For solo professionals like writers, using your name—or a version of it with the word “writer” or “copywriter”—is a good strategy.

EXAMPLE: Copywriting By Stewie

Register a corresponding domain name.

You’re going to need a website (more on this below). And you’ll need a custom domain for that website. The custom domain should correspond with your business name (as best it can).

EXAMPLE: www.CopywritingByStewie.com

Don’t stress too much if you can’t get a dot-com. People are used to seeing other extensions, like dot-biz or dot-us. So www.CopyWritingByStewie.biz would be perfectly OK.

Create a website.

I know, I know. This probably feels like the most daunting step of all! But you need a website. It serves as your storefront. Prospective clients can find you via search engines. Or they will go to your site to check out your credentials after you approach them (at a networking event, for example).

Your initial site can be simple. Basic. You don’t necessarily need to hire a web designer if your budget doesn’t allow for that. You can use a budget-friendly or free website builder to get the initial job done. Just make sure it allows you to have a CUSTOM domain. (Like CopywritingByStewie.com.) Most don’t.

But I found a great article that lists six options, including one that was new to me: Google Sites.

What pages should your copywriting website include?

  • Home
  • About
  • Portfolio
  • Contact
  • Blog*
  • Terms of service/privacy policy – I’m a big fan of plug-and-play products that stay updated when the laws change (which is often). I use Termageddon.

Regarding search engine optimization (SEO).

If you’re not familiar with SEO, that’s OK, but get cozy with it SOON. SEO is the heart and soul of effective online marketing. The best place I can send you is HubSpot: The Ultimate Guide to SEO. That link will explain EVERYTHING you need to know about SEO. Bookmark it, revisit it, and study it.

Bottom line: You need to optimize your website so that Google can easily find it, index it, and serve it up for relevant searches. If you have only a four-page site, you’ll need to find four kickass phrases to focus on (one for each page). (Here’s a link that highlights free keyword tools.)

To blog or not to blog? That is the question.

Blogging benefits include the following:

  • You can show off your writing chops.
  • You can show off your marketing expertise.
  • You can optimize a blog post for a keyword phrase, which gives your site more ranking opportunities.
  • Writing thoroughly about a topic can solidify your understanding of marketing topics.

The biggest blogging con is the time commitment: You need to commit to it. This doesn’t necessarily mean publishing a blog post every day or even every week. But once or twice a month is a must.

Your home page doesn’t need to be complicated.

Keep it personal, conversational, and error-free. Make it more about the prospective client reading the site than about you. Talk about how you can make their life easier by supplying clear, compelling copy for all their marketing needs.

Your About page should be about you. 

This is the place to talk about yourself. Highlight your background and skills. Let your personality shine through. Include a picture. I like keeping things fun and light. A headshot of your smiling face is a must. (Using your phone to take the pic is fine. Just make sure the lighting is good.) Add candid shots to further show who you are and your personality.

Here are tips for About page copywriting.

Your portfolio page proves your ability as a copywriter.

This is where you show off your mad copywriting skills. Link to stuff you’ve written. If a prospect lands on your site, they want to see evidence that you know what you’re doing.

If you’re a new copywriter, I realize this is a chicken and egg conundrum. If you’re just starting a business, you likely don’t have a lot of client work, but there are ways to get clips quickly.

  • Do you have great writing examples from a previous job? Did you write anything for your previous employer’s website, social media platforms, or email newsletter? Take screenshots and upload them. (I recommend only showcasing public-facing items unless you receive permission from your former employer to share something else, like an internal presentation you put together.)
  • Do you have a friend who owns a business? Offer to write a blog post and/or web page for free and add the links to your portfolio.
  • Do you have a local charity you’re involved with? Many local charities need marketing help. Offer to rewrite their home page or any printed collateral.

Worst-case scenario: Create your own examples. “Here’s an example of a series of emails promoting a webinar about X.” Once you start working for clients, you’ll swap in real clips and remove the examples.

I’ve done several YouTube videos about copywriting portfolios:

Your contact page should offer multiple ways to get in touch.

Offer an email address. Ideally, avoid using a Gmail or Hotmail address or anything like that. You want it to be related to your domain name. So Stewie@StewartCopywritingServices.com instead of @gmail.com

Why? Perception. You’ll come across as a legit business. Here are tips on how to write a good Contact page.

In terms of what social media channels to include on your Contact page/website footer, you don’t need to include those unless you have an active, relevant, and professional presence on places like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and so forth.

The one exception is LinkedIn. I recommend having a strong LinkedIn profile and including a link to it from your site. It’s another place for prospective clients to check you out. And LI has the benefit of showing common connections and endorsements.

Here’s a primer on how to create a compelling LinkedIn profile.

Do you need a logo?

No, you don’t need one. If you want one, that’s a different story. You might be able to get an acceptable logo done on a shoestring budget from a place like Fiverr. Or if you have a contact—maybe a friend/relative is a graphic designer or dabbles enough to be dangerous—you could go that route. Or if you yourself have any design chops, you could play around with making one.

Again, it’s easy to get lost in the weeds when starting a copywriting business. A logo is not going to make or break your business at this point—and it might be an unnecessary expense or distraction.

At some point, once your business starts gaining traction and you’re feeling confident that you’re in it for the long term, you can always revisit the logo question—and the custom web design question. I DO think there’s value in going with a professional web designer (here’s the web design firm I use) when the time is right and you have the money to invest.

One final thought on developing a copywriting website (for now)

This goes without saying, but grammar and punctuation matter BIG time on your website. Sure, typos happen and are a part of life. But it’s worth having another set of competent eyes proof the main pages of your site.

Open a business bank account.

Don’t wait until you’re making a lot of money to do this. If you’re serious about starting a copywriting business, open a business bank account ASAP.

Why? To keep business and personal expenses separate. This will make tax time much, much easier. You will likely have some clients who will want to pay you electronically as well, and it’s much more professional to be using a business bank account.

When shopping for a business bank account, be mindful of fees. Get a business debit card and pay all business-related expenses with it.

Why? It makes recordkeeping easier since you’ll get monthly itemized bank statements. Keep all receipts anyway (especially if you pay for anything with cash). But the monthly statement will save you a lot of grief.

My business and personal accounts are with the same bank, which makes things super easy. The bank has a user-friendly online portal. I easily transfer funds from my business account to my personal account every month. This is called an “owner’s draw.”

Note: If you’re an LLC, you’ll be required to get a business bank account.

Mind your business Ps and Qs.

File a business certificate (or its equivalent) with your town or city, if needed.

Not everyone does this. In fact, I’m the only person I know who does it.

But I suffer from Big Catholic guilt and always follow the rules. 🙂

Google “business certificate” and your city/town’s name to see what it requires.

Consider getting disability insurance and professional liability insurance.

You might not need disability insurance as you’re launching your copywriting business. But if you’re able to make a true go of this and you’re bringing in regular scratch, consider getting disability insurance. If something happens to you that affects your ability to work for a stretch (like a car accident), disability insurance can be a good financial bridge. Check out the Freelancers Union, which is free to join. It offers robust insurance options (disability is among them).

Professional liability (also known as errors and omissions) is one that a lot of writers carry. If someone mounts a copyright infringement claim (whether it’s bogus or not), you still need to defend yourself, and legal fees can add up quickly. I use BiBERK from Berkshire Hathaway.

How to start a copywriting business: More tips

Get thee a writing machine.

Obviously, you’re going to need a computer, laptop, and/or tablet. This is where the writing happens. If you can swing it, I highly recommend having two machines and making them mirror images of each other. Meaning if you’re working on a Word doc on one machine, it will automatically sync to the other. This way, if one machine goes down—which will happen at some point—you don’t miss a beat. You simply switch to the other machine. I also recommend building in redundancies. I save things to the cloud, but I also have two external hard drives, one for each machine.

Invest in reliable Internet.

Along the same lines, make sure you invest in reliable Internet. This is one area where I don’t recommend skimping because you will notice the difference—and it will likely frustrate you. You need speed and reliability. Again, pay with your business bank card.

Get comfortable with word processing software.

I’m a Microsoft Word girl. I use it 90% of the time. The other 10%, I work in Google Docs. But I always write in Word first before uploading to Google Docs. I use Outlook for email. I use Excel/Google Sheets probably 5% of the time. (Usually for editorial calendars or project plans.) I often need to read PowerPoint presentations, but I rarely create any these days. Your mileage will vary, of course.

That said, the majority of your clients will work in either Word or Google Docs. (You’ll want to make sure you can read and create PDFs, too.) So make sure you’re familiar with popular/common software and that whatever machine you choose can open/work in Word.

Keep good records.

This ties in with the business bank account. You want to make sure you keep records/receipts for all business-related expenses. You should also have a basic profit & loss statement. This includes revenue, cost of goods sold, general expenses, other expenses (think taxes), and net income. Remember my disclaimer at the beginning of the blog post? I’m not an accountant.

Here are some links:

Do you need an accountant/bookkeeper right away?

Like so many things in life, it depends. I’ve used one since the beginning. Once you’re making money, you’ll need to pay quarterly taxes, and an accountant can help forecast the estimates, answer questions, and the like.

One thing to keep in mind as you decide whether to use an accountant or to do everything on your own: Consider what your time is worth.

Let’s say you spend 10 hours doing your taxes. But let’s say your internal hourly rate with clients is $65/hour. (Note: The word “internal” is key here—I don’t recommend giving clients hourly rates, only project quotes. Still, you need to have an internal sense of what an hour of your time is worth to you.) So, let’s say your accountant charges you $500 to prepare your taxes. It takes you ten hours (essentially, $650 worth of your time). You can see it makes more economic sense to pay someone else to do your taxes while you use those ten hours working for a client.

Again, your mileage will vary. Figure out what works for you.

More quick Q&As about how to start a copywriting business

  • Do you need a printer? I have one and hardly use it.
  • Do you need a fax machine? It isn’t 1995. You don’t need a fax machine. When I started, I used eFax, but I canceled the account a few years ago.
  • Business cards. I do have ’em. I can’t remember the last time I handed one out. But as you start your copywriting business, you’ll likely be doing much more networking. So get some business cards. Don’t overthink it. VistaPrint and Moo offer budget-friendly options.
  • Office supplies. Basics only. One of the nice things about a copywriting business is the low overhead. If you’re going to spend money anywhere, put it towards a good chair. You’ll be spending a lot of time in it!

Note: I’m assuming you have a smartphone, but I know what they say about assumptions. You need a phone. I use my cell as my business phone. I also have a landline that I use when talking to clients or interviewing subject matter experts because I find the sound quality better, and a landline is more reliable. This is my own preference. You don’t necessarily need a landline.

Embrace the mess and the unknown.

Starting a new business is messy. Just when you think you have all your duckies lined up, you’ll be thrown a curve ball. It happens to all of us. KEEP GOING.

Is this an exhaustive list of how to start a copywriting business?

Nope! But sometimes the hardest part about getting started is simply getting started. My goal here was to provide actionable items that you can tackle. If you do all of the above, you’ll be in good shape—and then you can build/adjust from there.

Got questions? Drop me a line.