5 Essential Tips for Succeeding as a Freelance Copywriter

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 5 min read

So, you want to become a successful copywriter freelance professional? You've come to the right place! In this blog, we'll discuss five essential tips to help you achieve success in the competitive world of freelance copywriting.

1. Hone Your Skills

Before you can succeed as a copywriter freelance professional, you need to make sure your skills are top-notch. Let's explore three key areas to focus on:

Master the Basics

Start by getting a strong grasp of the fundamentals of copywriting, such as:

Headlines: Learn how to create attention-grabbing headlines that entice readers to continue.
Body copy: Develop the ability to write clear, concise, and engaging content that keeps readers hooked and conveys your message effectively.
Call-to-action (CTA): Understand the art of crafting persuasive CTAs that encourage readers to take the desired action, whether it's making a purchase or signing up for a newsletter.

Expand Your Knowledge

Once you've got the basics down, it's time to broaden your skillset. This can include:

SEO: Learn how to optimize your content for search engines to improve visibility and attract more clients.
Content marketing: Familiarize yourself with different types of content and how to create an effective content marketing strategy.
Niche expertise: Specialize in specific industries or types of copy, such as technical writing, email marketing, or social media copywriting, to differentiate yourself in the market and attract clients looking for that particular skill.

Practice Regularly

As with any skill, practice makes perfect. To sharpen your copywriting abilities:

Write every day, even if it's just a few sentences or paragraphs.
Seek feedback from fellow writers or clients to identify areas for improvement.
Experiment with different writing styles and techniques to discover what works best for you and your clients.

2. Build Your Portfolio

A strong portfolio is essential for showcasing your talents to potential clients. Here's how to create an impressive portfolio that demonstrates your skills as a copywriter freelance professional:

Select Your Best Work

Choose a variety of samples that represent your best work and demonstrate your versatility. This can include:

Blog posts
Product descriptions
Website copy
Email campaigns
Social media posts

Also, consider including case studies that highlight the impact your copywriting has had on clients' businesses, such as increased conversions or improved search engine rankings.

Organize Your Portfolio

Arrange your portfolio in a logical and visually appealing manner:

Group similar projects together, such as all blog posts or all product descriptions.
Use a clean layout and consistent formatting to make it easy for clients to navigate and review your work.
Include brief descriptions for each project, highlighting the purpose of the piece and any notable results.

Update Frequently

Keep your portfolio fresh and up-to-date by regularly adding new projects and removing outdated or less relevant samples. This demonstrates that you're an active copywriter freelance professional who's continually honing your skills and staying current with industry trends.

3. Network and Outreach

Building connections with others in the industry is important for finding new opportunities and growing your copywriter freelance business. Here are some effective ways to network and reach out to potential clients:

Join Online Communities

Participate in online forums, social media groups, and platforms specifically designed for freelancers, such as:

LinkedIn groups for copywriters
Facebook groups for freelance writers
Platforms like Upwork or Freelancer

Engage in discussions, share your expertise, and ask for advice from experienced professionals. This not only helps you learn from others, but also showcases your skills and knowledge to potential clients.

Attend Industry Events

Conferences, workshops, and networking events provide the opportunity to meet other professionals, learn about new trends, and discover potential clients. Make sure you have a polished elevator pitch and plenty of business cards on hand to make a lasting impression.

Connect with Other Freelancers

Establishing relationships with fellow freelance copywriters can lead to referrals, collaborations, and valuable insights. Reach out to other freelancers for advice or simply to share experiences, and remember to offer your support in return. Building a strong community can greatly benefit your career as a copywriter freelance professional.

4. Set Your Rates

As a freelance copywriter, it's important to set fair and competitive rates for your services. Here are some factors to consider when determining your rates:

Research the Market

Find out what other freelance copywriters with similar experience and skills are charging. You can do this by:

Checking out their websites or profiles on freelancing platforms
Asking fellow freelancers in online communities
Reviewing industry reports and surveys

This will give you a better understanding of the current market rates and help you set competitive prices.

Consider Your Expertise

As a copywriter freelance professional, you may have areas of expertise, such as technical writing or marketing. Clients are often willing to pay more for specialized skills, so factor in your unique knowledge and experience when setting your rates.

Adjust According to Client

Not all clients or projects are the same, so it's essential to be flexible with your rates. Consider the complexity of the project, the client's budget, and the potential for ongoing work. Sometimes, it's worth accepting a lower rate for a long-term client or a project that will enhance your portfolio.

By carefully considering these factors and setting appropriate rates, you'll be well on your way to building a successful freelance copywriting business.

5. Manage Your Time

Time management is a crucial skill for any copywriter freelance professional. Here are some tips to help you stay on track and meet your deadlines:

Create a Schedule

Create a daily or weekly schedule to allocate your time effectively. Include time for client work, administrative tasks, networking, and skill-building. Break down larger projects into smaller tasks and prioritize them according to deadlines and importance. Having a clear schedule will help you stay focused and productive.

Set Deadlines

Establish deadlines for each project and task, even if the client hasn't provided one. This will help you stay accountable and ensure that you're making steady progress. Remember to set realistic deadlines, taking into account your other commitments and the need for some downtime.

Avoid Procrastination

Procrastination can be a significant hurdle for freelance copywriters. To combat this, try setting specific goals for each work session, using productivity techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, and eliminating distractions. Remember, the more you can stay focused and avoid procrastination, the more successful your freelance copywriting career will be.

By effectively managing your time and staying organized, you'll be better equipped to handle the demands of a freelance copywriting career and deliver high-quality work to your clients on schedule.

If you're interested in exploring the world of freelancing and want to learn the essentials for success, check out the workshop called 'The Freelancing Fundamentals To Make You Flourish' by Jasmine MacPhee. This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips on how to navigate the freelancing landscape and make your mark in this competitive field.