Want to start your own copywriting business? You can. You need to remember however, that although it's a creative endeavor, it's also a business. Do that, and your new venture will be successful.
I started my own copywriting career almost 30 years ago. Of all the different kinds of writing I do, it's my favorite, because the words I create can have a huge impact, earning many thousands of dollars for my clients. This is always a thrill.
So, let's look at how you can get started.
Here's an important tip, about your business name, and business cards.
New copywriters spend too much time thinking about these things. I suggest you forget both these items. Nothing happens until someone hires you, so make that your first priority. Use your own name, and print business cards on your own printer as you need them.
1. Investing in Your New Business: Cash, or Sweat Equity
If you're working from a home office, your startup costs will be minimal. However, you need some capital, for setting up a website, and marketing.
No money? if you have nothing to invest, getting your business up and running will take longer, and you'll have to devote more time to "free" marketing solutions.
2. Your Terms of Service, and the Fees You Charge
Once you've decided how much money you can invest, you'll need to create a Terms of Service (TOS) document, and decide on your fees.
Your TOS needs to include both what you expect from your clients, and what your clients can expect from you.
It's best to keep your TOS simple, and free of jargon: this ensures that your clients read it. Send your TOS to your clients, and make sure that they agree with it in writing, or via an electronic signature.
Create a list of fees. Work out an hourly rate, and then decide how much you'll charge per project. Remember that all the hours you work are not chargeable. Most copywriters find that they can bill 20 to 25 hours per week, maximum. The rest of the time is taken up with other essential business activities.
3. Getting Clients and Keeping Them Happy
Your first year in business will be devoted to getting clients, and completing projects. You're starting from zero, so you'll be busy marketing intensively.
Once you start working with clients, remember to continue marketing, otherwise you'll experience interruptions to your cash flow.
It's very easy to start a copywriting business, and if you remember that you need to be businesslike, it's very lucrative and enjoyable.
New: Develop Your Own Copywriting Services Business in Just Seven Days
Angela Booth's copywriting guide, Seven Days To Easy Money: Copywriting Success, has been turning writers into copywriters for eight years.
It's now been revised and updated for 2010. This comprehensive guide helps you to build your own copywriting business in just seven days. It's a complete program, with everything you need. Each day you have objectives and tasks. Just complete the tasks, to build your business. (Of course, coaching is included.)
