This is Video 1.1A

in the course:

Get Paid To Write

Module 1:

The business of copywriting – what it takes to be successful

Learning outcomes:

How to:

• Become a successful copywriter

• Get priorities clear and set goals

• Work to your strengths

• Outsource to save time and money

The pros and cons of being a freelance copywriter:

• I’ll be honest – 25 years in the business

• It’s good to know these upfront so you can expect them

The pros and cons of being a freelance copywriter:

• Accept them or change the bits you don’t like

• It’s not for everyone – but those who it is for LOVE it

The pros and cons of being a freelance copywriter:

• How will you know – try it

• Get clear about what it involves but don’t research too much

The pros and cons of being a freelance copywriter:

• These principles relate to ALL freelance businesses (not just copywriting –graphic design, web developers, coaches, accountants, musicians etc.)

The pros:

• What’s your worst nightmare memory of work?

• Why am I asking you to remember this?

The pros:

• You need to have a strong image/sound/smell that reminds you why you want a freelance business

• Pin it up or make a note so you can see it at all times

The pros:

• It will get hard – you need to be reminded of why you want it

• Work for yourself – no boss, you control your diary

The pros:

• Flexible – you can work at night, on weekends, whenever

• Work at home – no commute, no make-up, no high heels

The pros:

• Choose your clients – work with people you like on products you like

• Time efficient – no more politics, no unnecessary meetings

The pros:

• Digital – most work takes place via phone and email

• Make as much or as little as you like –you control your fees and the hours you put in

The pros:

• There are no overheads, staff, minimal outgoings

The cons:

• You have to be a constant marketer – no marketing? No business

• You have to get GOOD and EFFICIENT at marketing – this is a crash course in small business marketing

The cons:

• You are a small business owner – you have to be across all aspects of running a business

The cons:

• There are no massive overheads but there are expenses that need to be borne upfront:

• Website

• Email system

• PA (or virtual PA)

• Computer/Internet

The cons:

• You have to deliver and be good at what you do (more on that later)

• No work, no pay – as an employee you get paid even if you’re hungover, tired, or don’t even turn up – not as a freelancer

The cons:

• You have to be service oriented – the customer is right (most of the time)

7 most common problems freelance copywriters face:

How to:

1. Find work

2. Build confidence

3. Charge for work

7 most common problems freelance copywriters face:

4. Deal with difficult clients

5. Overcome rejection

6. Sustain motivation

7. Deal with marketing and administration

Top 7 reasons why people don’t succeed at copywriting:

1. Lack of clear goals

2. Lack of time

3. Lack of money

4. Lack of confidence

Top 7 reasons why people don’t succeed at copywriting:

5. Fear of failure

6. Fear of success

7. Blame others

This is the end of Video 1.1A

in the course:

Get Paid To Write

Module 1:

The business of copywriting – what it takes to be successful