Quick-Start: Your 1st Paid Project in 7 Days
Day 1: Choose What Writing Services You’ll Offer
Pick 3 types of writing projects beginners can handle, decide what to charge, and write simple descriptions of each service.
Day 2: Set Up Your Basic Online Presence
Create a free business email account, update your LinkedIn profile to show you’re a writer, and make a simple portfolio using Google Docs.
Day 3: Create Sample Work (Even With No Experience)
Find 2 local businesses with weak writing on their websites, rewrite their content to make it better, and create side-by-side comparisons.
Day 4: Find Potential Clients Who Need Better Writing
Make a list of 20 businesses that clearly need help with their content, find the decision-makers’ contact info, and note their specific content problems.
Day 5: Craft Messages to Send Potential Clients
Write an email template for reaching out to businesses, prepare follow-up messages, and create a simple quote template.
Day 6: Start Reaching Out to Potential Clients
Send your first 10 personalized emails, connect with 15 potential clients on LinkedIn, and let your personal network know you’re available for writing work.
Day 7: Follow Up and Get Ready to Do the Work
Respond quickly to any replies, create a simple questionnaire to learn what clients need, and set up a basic system for delivering your work.
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Phase 1: Finding Your First Paying Clients
Writing Services That Sell (With Pricing Guide)
Type of Writing | What to Offer | What to Charge (Beginner) | What to Charge (Intermediate) | What to Charge (Advanced) | How Long It Takes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Website Writing | Homepage | $150-250 | $250-400 | $400-800 | 3-5 days |
About page | $125-200 | $200-350 | $350-700 | 2-4 days | |
Services page | $125-200 | $200-350 | $350-700 | 2-4 days | |
Blog Posts | Short (500-750 words) | $75-125 | $125-225 | $225-400 | 2-3 days |
Standard (1000-1500 words) | $125-200 | $200-350 | $350-650 | 3-5 days | |
Email Writing | Single email | $50-100 | $100-175 | $175-350 | 1-2 days |
3-email series | $150-300 | $300-500 | $500-1000 | 3-5 days |
Interesting stat: 59% work of copywriters work as freelancers… making around $76,000 yearly in the US. Those who specialize in technical or financial writing can earn up to 30% more. (Source)
How to Create Sample Work in 24 Hours (No Experience Needed)
The Before-and-After Method
- Find a local business with weak writing – Look for unclear messaging, boring descriptions, or generic wording on their website.
- Take a screenshot of their current page – Save this as your “before” example.
- Rewrite it to make it more interesting and effective – Focus on:
- Making the main message clearer
- Adding specific details about benefits
- Using more conversational language
- Including a stronger call-to-action (what they want people to do next)
- Making the main message clearer
- Adding specific details about benefits
- Using more conversational language
- Including a stronger call-to-action (what they want people to do next)
- Put the original and your improved version side by side – This visually shows the improvement you can create.
- Write a few sentences explaining what you fixed – Mention the specific problems you solved in your version.
Try to create 2-3 different examples covering different types of writing (website page, email, product description) to show your range.
Where to Find Your First Clients (Who Will Actually Pay You)
Client Source | Where to Look | How to Approach Them |
|---|---|---|
People You Already Know | – Friends who own businesses | Send a friendly message explaining your new writing service and asking if they need help or know someone who does |
Local Businesses | – Service businesses with outdated websites | Send a personalized email pointing out specific improvements you could make to their content |
Online Groups | – Facebook groups for small business owners | Answer questions helpfully, then mention your writing services when appropriate |
Freelance Websites | – Upwork (look for clients with good reviews) | Create a profile that focuses on specific types of writing for specific industries |
Partner Businesses | – Web designers who need writers for their clients | Reach out offering to be their recommended writer for clients |
Email Templates That Actually Get Responses
First Contact Email Template:
Subject: Quick idea for [Company]’s website
Hi [Name],
I visited your website today and noticed your homepage could better highlight what makes [Company] special compared to competitors.
I’ve helped other [type of businesses] improve their website writing to attract more customers. Would you like to see a few specific suggestions I have for your site?
I’m happy to share some ideas in a quick 15-minute call.
Best,
[Your Name]
Example (Using the Template):
Subject: Quick idea for Bright Smile Dental’s website
Hi Dr. Johnson,
I visited your website today and noticed your homepage could better highlight what makes Bright Smile Dental special compared to other practices in Portland.
I’ve helped other dental practices improve their website writing to attract more patients by focusing on addressing common fears and highlighting your gentle approach. Would you like to see a few specific suggestions I have for your site?
I’m happy to share some ideas in a quick 15-minute call next Tuesday or Wednesday.
Best,
Sarah Williams
(thanks to ImgFlip for the memes)
===
Follow-Up Email Template:
Subject: Following up: Website improvement ideas
Hi [Name],
One specific idea I had was making your [specific page] focus more on the results your customers get rather than just describing your services. This approach typically leads to more inquiries and sales.
Would you be open to discussing how this could help bring in more business?
Best,
[Your Name]
Example (Using the Template):
Subject: Following up: Website improvement ideas for Bright Smile
Hi Dr. Johnson,
One specific idea I had was making your Services page focus more on the comfort and confidence patients feel after treatment rather than just listing procedures. For example, instead of “We offer teeth whitening,” you could say “Walk out with a brighter smile that gives you confidence in photos and meetings.”
Would you be open to discussing how this approach could help bring in more new patients?
Best,
Sarah Williams
===
According to Campaign Monitor, folks are 26% more likely to open emails with personalized subject lines. So make sure you use it to your advantage.
When to Follow Up (Without Being Annoying)
After sending your first email, wait 3 days. If no response, send your first follow-up with a new helpful tip or observation.
If still no response after 4 more days, send a second follow-up that includes a specific suggestion they can use right away.
If you still don’t hear back after another 7 days, send a final “break-up” email letting them know you won’t contact them again but you’re available if they need help later.
For anyone who does respond, reply the same day to keep the conversation going while they’re still interested.
Remember: Always provide something valuable in each follow-up rather than just asking “Did you get my email?”
Phase 2: Delivering Great Work That Gets You Hired Again
What to Say on Client Calls to Win Projects
Part of the Call | What to Say | Why This Works |
|---|---|---|
Opening | “Thanks for taking time to chat about your writing needs. I’d love to learn about your business and see how I can help.” | Shows you value their time and care about their specific situation |
Key Questions | – “What’s not working about your current content?” | Gets the essential information you need to understand their problems, audience, goals and timeline |
Next Steps | “Based on what you’ve shared, I think I can help by [brief solution]. I’ll send you a simple proposal today with pricing and timeline. Does that work?” | Creates clear expectations and establishes what happens next |
Client Call Example:
You: “Thanks for taking time to chat about your website copy needs. I’d love to learn more about your fitness coaching business and see how I can help.”
Client: “Sure, I’ve been struggling with my website. I don’t think it’s working well.”
You: “Can you tell me what specifically isn’t working about your current website content?”
Client: “Well, I’m not getting many sign-ups for my coaching program. People visit but don’t take action.”
You: “Who exactly are you trying to reach with your website?”
Client: “Mainly busy professionals in their 30s and 40s who want to get fit but struggle with time management.”
You: “What do you ideally want visitors to do after reading your website?”
Client: “Schedule a free consultation call with me.”
You: “What makes your coaching approach different from other fitness coaches?”
Client: “I create custom workout plans that fit into 30-minute windows and focus on nutrition that doesn’t require meal prep.”
You: “When would you need the new website content completed?”
Client: “Ideally within two weeks if possible.”
You: “Based on what you’ve shared, I can help by rewriting your homepage and about page to really highlight your unique approach for busy professionals and add stronger calls-to-action for consultation bookings. I’ll send you a simple proposal today with pricing and timeline. Does that work?”
Client: “Yes, that sounds great.”
How to Handle Price Questions
What They Say | What You Say | Why This Approach Works |
|---|---|---|
“That costs more than we planned to spend.” | “I understand budget concerns. We could start with just your homepage first, which will give you the most immediate results, and then work on the other pages later as budget allows.” | Offers a smaller starting project rather than lowering your rates |
“Can you get it done faster?” | “I could deliver by [earlier date] for a rush fee of [15-25% more]. This lets me prioritize your project while maintaining the quality you need.” | Shows you’re flexible but values your time properly |
“We’re talking to other writers too.” | “That makes sense. Many clients compare options. What would help you decide? Would seeing examples of similar work I’ve done or hearing more about my process help?” | Shows confidence and tries to uncover their real concerns |
Price Objection Handling Example:
Client: “Your quote of $600 for the website rewrite is more than we planned to spend.”
You: “I understand budget concerns. We could start with just your homepage first, which will give you the most immediate results, for $225. Then we could work on the other pages later as budget allows. The homepage is where most visitors make their first impression, so it’s the most important page to optimize first.”
Client: “Can you get it done faster than two weeks? We have a promotion coming up.”
You: “I could deliver by next Friday for a rush fee of $260 instead of $225. This lets me prioritize your project and rearrange my schedule while maintaining the quality you need.”
Client: “We’re talking to other writers too.”
You: “That makes sense. Many clients compare options. What would help you decide? Would seeing examples of similar work I’ve done for other fitness businesses or hearing more about my specific process for improving conversion rates help?”
Simple Writing Process That Delivers Quality Work Quickly
Step | What to Do | Time It Takes | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
Research | – Look at client’s current content | 1 hour | Look for the language customers use and the problems they mention |
Planning | – Write main headline | 30 minutes | Planning first saves tons of revision time later |
Writing | – Write without stopping to edit | 1-2 hours | Focus on getting words down, not making them perfect yet |
Editing | – Remove unnecessary words | 30-45 minutes | Reading your work out loud helps catch awkward phrasing |
Reducing FUDs (fear, uncertainties, and doubts) can increase conversion rate by 6.89% (Source: Invesp). So make sure to address them in your copy.
How to Deliver Your Work Professionally
Client Delivery Process
- Send your draft in Google Docs (give them comment access) – This makes feedback easy and organized.
- Include in your email:
- A brief summary of your approach
- Instructions for leaving feedback in comments
- When you’ll make revisions
- What happens next
- A brief summary of your approach
- Instructions for leaving feedback in comments
- When you’ll make revisions
- What happens next
- If you don’t hear back in 2 business days, send a friendly reminder – This keeps the project moving.
- Make all revisions within your promised timeframe – Being reliable is crucial.
- Deliver final files in whatever format the client prefers – Ask if they want Word, PDF, Google Doc, etc.
- Send your invoice right after they approve the final version – Don’t wait to bill once they’re happy.
Delivery Email Example:
Subject: Your homepage draft for review – Bright Smile Dental
Hi Dr. Johnson,
I’ve completed the first draft of your new homepage content and attached it via Google Docs [LINK].
About this draft:
I focused on highlighting what makes Bright Smile unique – your pain-free guarantee, evening appointments, and family-friendly approach. I’ve also added stronger calls-to-action to encourage new patient bookings.
How to provide feedback:
Please use the comment feature in Google Docs to leave any feedback or suggestions directly on the document. This helps me track all revision requests in one place.
Next steps:
- Please review and comment by Friday if possible
- I’ll make all revisions within 2 business days of receiving your feedback
- Once approved, I’ll deliver the final copy in Word format as requested
Let me know if you have any questions! If I don’t hear back by Friday, I’ll follow up to make sure you received the draft.
Best,
Sarah Williams
The Journey: From New to Experienced Copywriter
Now that you’ve learned how to deliver great work professionally, let’s look at your longer-term path in the copywriting world. The best freelance copywriting business owners think beyond just getting their first few projects.
Developing Advanced Writing Skills
While basic competency gets you started, a truly successful copywriting business requires continuous skill development. Even experienced copywriters constantly refine their copywriting skills to stay effective.
Beyond the fundamentals, advanced freelance copywriting includes mastering different content types: landing pages, SEO-optimized writing articles, video scripts, and specialized advertising copy. Each format requires unique techniques that you’ll perfect throughout your copywriting career.
Good copywriters know their strengths. Some excel at punchy web copy while others shine at long-form content. Identify what you enjoy most—this often indicates where your natural talent lies. A focused skill set is usually more valuable than being average at everything.
For learning copywriting deeply, combine multiple approaches: study proven copywriting books, analyze competitor work with strategic market research, and practice regularly. While a copywriting course can accelerate your progress, self-directed study with a strong internet connection works for many new copywriters.
Building a Career-Defining Copywriting Portfolio
As you gain copywriting experience, continuously update your online portfolio with your best work. Your initial writing samples demonstrate basic competency, but your evolved portfolio should tell a story about your specialized expertise.
The strongest portfolios focus on results, not just pretty words. When possible, include data about how your work helped future clients achieve their goals. Results-focused writing skills demonstration attracts better clients than fancy designs alone.
Consider organizing your portfolio by industry or content type to appeal to your ideal client. This helps you transition from a generalist freelance copywriter to a specialist who commands higher rates. Specialists in high-growth industries often find their services in high demand.
Evolving Your Own Copywriting Business
As you grow beyond your first copywriting client, you’ll face important decisions about your business model. Some prefer staying a solo single business while others build agencies and hire other copywriters.
Many who start a new copywriting business eventually reach a crossroads: continue as a freelance copywriter, become an in-house copywriter for stability, or build an agency. There’s no short answer to which is best—each path has merits depending on your goals.
Those aiming for multiple six figures typically choose specialization and premium positioning. Rather than competing on price with every copywriting project, they become recognized experts who can charge more because they deliver specialized value.
Mastering the Business Beyond the Writing
Running a mature freelance copywriting business involves much more than writing. Efficient handling of administrative tasks and business expenses becomes increasingly important as you scale.
Client management becomes as crucial as writing ability. Managing relationships well leads to repeat business and referrals—often the difference between struggling and thriving. After delivering exceptional work and sending that final invoice, your follow-up process determines whether clients return.
Successful copywriters balance creation time with business development. Block time for networking events, relationship building, and market research to ensure a consistent pipeline of work. The moment you start writing for one client is precisely when you should be planting seeds for the next opportunity.
With these longer-term strategies in mind, let’s explore specific tactics for growing your business through repeat clients and referrals.
Phase 3: Growing Your Business Step by Step
How to Get Repeat Work From Past Clients
Results Check-In Email Template:
Subject: How’s the new content working for you?
Hi [Name],
It’s been about [timeframe] since we finished the [project] for [company].
I’m checking in to see how it’s performing. Have you noticed any changes in [website visits, phone calls, sales, etc.]?
I also had an idea for your [another page or content piece] that could help you [specific benefit]. Would you be interested in discussing this?
Best,
[Your Name]
===
Example (Using the Template):
Subject: How’s the new website content working for you?
Hi Dr. Johnson,
It’s been about a month since we finished the homepage rewrite for Bright Smile Dental.
I’m checking in to see how it’s performing. Have you noticed any changes in appointment bookings, phone calls, or questions about the pain-free procedures we highlighted?
I also had an idea for your patient testimonials page that could help strengthen trust with potential new patients who are anxious about dental visits. Would you be interested in discussing a new approach that showcases real patient experiences more effectively?
Best,
Sarah Williams
===
Pro tip:
The best time to suggest new work is when clients are seeing good results from your previous project. Always suggest a specific next project that connects to their business goals, not just asking generally if they need more writing.
Ready-Made Service Packages That Sell Easily
Package Name | Price Range | What’s Included | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
Website Refresh Package | $550-900 | – Homepage rewrite | 10-14 days |
Monthly Content Package | $500-750/month | – 2 blog posts (1,000-1,500 words each) | Throughout the month |
Email Series Package | $350-550 | – 5 connected emails | 7-10 days |
How to Get Client Referrals (That Actually Happen)
When | What to Do | What to Say | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
Right after they praise your work | Ask for referrals when they’re already happy | “I’m so glad you’re happy with the results. My business grows through recommendations from satisfied clients like you. Do you know any other businesses who might benefit from similar content improvements?” | Timing the request when they’re already expressing satisfaction increases success |
Make it super easy for them | Give them something they can forward | “I’d be happy to write a short email you could forward to anyone you think might be interested.” | Removing effort increases likelihood they’ll follow through |
Add an incentive | Offer a reward for successful referrals | “I offer a 10% discount on your next project for any referral that becomes a client.” | Creating a win-win situation motivates action |
1-2 weeks later | Follow up once if they haven’t referred anyone | “I just wanted to follow up about possible referrals. Have you thought of anyone who might benefit from my services?” | A gentle reminder often prompts action they intended but forgot |
Referral Request Example:
Client: “The website copy you wrote is fantastic! We’ve already seen an increase in appointment bookings.”
You: “I’m so glad you’re happy with the results. My business grows through recommendations from satisfied clients like you. Do you know any other dental practices or healthcare providers who might benefit from similar website improvements?”
Client: “I might know a couple people, but I’d need to think about it.”
You: “I’d be happy to write a short email you could forward to anyone you think might be interested. And I offer a 10% discount on your next project for any referral that becomes a client.”
Client: “That sounds good. You can send me something to forward.”
===
(Follow-up email to provide forwarding template)
Subject: Something you can forward to potential referrals
Hi Dr. Johnson,
As promised, here’s a short message you can forward to anyone you think might benefit from my copywriting services:
== Forwarding template starts ==
Subject: Writer recommendation from Dr. Johnson
Hi [Name],
I wanted to introduce you to Sarah Williams, who recently rewrote the copy for our dental practice website.
Since implementing her changes, we’ve seen an increase in new patient inquiries. She was easy to work with, understood our practice quickly, and delivered exactly what we needed.
If you’re looking to improve your website or marketing materials, I thought you might find her services valuable: [your website or contact info]
Best,
Dr. Johnson
Bright Smile Dental== Forwarding template ends ==
Feel free to modify this however you like. And remember, you’ll receive 10% off your next project for any referrals who become clients.
Thanks again for your support!
Best,
Sarah Williams
===
76% of B2B executives prefer to work with vendors who have been recommended by someone they know (Source: IDC). Don’t waste this knowledge.
Example Daily Schedule To Get More Done
Time | What to Do | Why This Works |
|---|---|---|
8:00 – 9:00 AM | Handle emails, invoicing, planning | Gets admin tasks out of the way before creative work |
9:00 – 11:00 AM | Focus block #1: Hardest writing project | Uses morning energy for most challenging work |
11:00 – 11:30 AM | Short break | Prevents burnout and maintains productivity |
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Client calls and meetings | Groups meetings together to protect writing time |
12:30 – 1:30 PM | Lunch break | Necessary recharge time |
1:30 – 3:30 PM | Focus block #2: Second writing project | Second concentrated period for creative work |
3:30 – 4:30 PM | Marketing & reaching out to potential clients | Ensures business development happens daily |
4:30 – 5:00 PM | Final email check and planning tomorrow | Sets up success for the next day |
Phase 4: Making Your Business Even Better
How to Use AI Writing Tools (The Right Way)
People trust AI search engines more when they know a human has verified the information. People feel more confident about AI results when there’s human oversight involved. (Source: MarTech)
So it’s wise to use AI as a helper/assistant, not to create everything.
What You Need | Tool Options | How to Use It Properly | What to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
Research help | ChatGPT, Claude, Bard | Ask for industry trends, competitor insights, customer pain points – but always fact-check | Don’t use AI research as your only source – verify everything |
Content planning | ChatGPT, Claude | Enter client info to get structure ideas, then heavily customize | Don’t use AI-generated outlines without significant changes |
Headline ideas | Copy.ai, ChatGPT | Generate 10-15 options, then rewrite for client’s brand voice | Don’t use AI headlines exactly as generated |
Editing help | Grammarly, Hemingway | Run drafts through for basic improvements, but use judgment | Don’t accept all AI suggestions without thinking critically |
Client emails | ChatGPT, Claude | Draft basic emails, then personalize completely before sending | Never send AI-generated communications without thorough customization |
How to Partner With Other Businesses
Email Template for Web Designers:
Subject: Partnering to help your clients get better results
Hi [Designer’s Name],
I came across your portfolio and really like your design work for [specific client/project].
I’m a writer specializing in [type of writing], and I’ve noticed that many designers need a reliable writer to complement their services. Would you be interested in discussing working together?
I could write content for your design clients, and you could handle design for my content clients. This way, we both offer more complete solutions.
Here’s a link to my portfolio: [link]
Would you be open to a quick 15-minute chat to explore this idea?
Best,
[Your Name]
===
Example (Using the Template):
Subject: Partnering to help your clients get better results
Hi Emma,
I came across your portfolio and really like your design work for Blue Mountain Coffee’s website redesign. The visual hierarchy and color scheme perfectly match their brand personality.
I’m a writer specializing in food and beverage copy, and I’ve noticed that many designers need a reliable writer to complement their services. Would you be interested in discussing working together?
I could write content for your design clients, and you could handle design for my content clients. This way, we both offer more complete solutions that deliver better results.
Here’s a link to my portfolio: [link]
Would you be open to a quick 15-minute chat this Thursday or Friday to explore this idea?
Best,
Michael Thompson
===
Look for partners whose services complement yours but don’t compete directly.
Web designers, marketing consultants, and business coaches all regularly need good writers for their clients.
When to Make Your Business “Official”
Stage of Your Business | What You Should Do | Why This Makes Sense |
|---|---|---|
Making under $1,000/month | – Use your personal name | Keeps things simple when you’re just starting out |
Making over $1,000/month AND worried about legal protection | – Form an LLC | Protects your personal assets and prepares for growth |
Making over $1,000/month BUT not concerned about legal protection | – Register as sole proprietor | Simpler than LLC but still professional |
Any level of consistent income | – Set aside 25-30% for taxes | Prevents tax surprises and financial confusion |
Helpful Tools and Examples
Before-and-After Website Examples
Business Type | Before | After | What Was Improved |
|---|---|---|---|
Online Course Creator (Fitness Niche) | “Welcome to Fitness Fundamentals Online Courses. | “Transform Your Body in Just 20 Minutes a Day (Without Expensive Equipment) | – Benefit-focused headline |
Business Coach (Marketing Niche) | “Jane Smith Consulting provides marketing coaching for small businesses. | “Stop Wasting Money on Marketing That Doesn’t Work | – Problem-solution headline |
Digital Product Seller (Design Templates) | “DesignPro Templates offers a wide range of professional templates for presentations, social media, and print materials.
| “Professional-Looking Designs in 5 Minutes (Even If You’re Not a Designer) | – Benefit-focused headline addressing non-designer anxiety |
Restaurant | “Welcome to Mario’s Italian Restaurant. We serve authentic Italian cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere. | “Authentic Italian Flavors From Our Family to Yours | – Emotional headline instead of generic welcome |
Plumber | “We provide quality plumbing services to homeowners in the Springfield area. | “Plumbing That’s Done Right the First Time | – Benefit-focused headline |
How to Ask Clients for Monthly Ongoing Work
Monthly Retainer Template:
“Based on what we’ve accomplished with [recent project], I see an opportunity to help [Company] maintain consistent quality content that brings in new customers.
Rather than approaching each content piece one by one, I’d like to propose a monthly package that includes:
– [Specific deliverable – e.g., 2 blog posts]
– [Specific deliverable – e.g., 1 email newsletter]
– [Specific deliverable – e.g., 4 social media posts]
The advantages of this approach are:
1. You save [X%] compared to ordering these items separately
2. You get predictable content creation without having to manage multiple projects
3. I become more familiar with your brand, improving consistency and quality
The investment would be [$X] per month, with a 3-month initial commitment.”
===
Example (Using the Template):
“Based on what we’ve accomplished with your website rewrite, I see an opportunity to help Bright Smile Dental maintain consistent quality content that brings in new patients regularly.
Rather than approaching each content piece one by one, I’d like to propose a monthly package that includes:
– 1 blog post on dental health topics (1,000-1,200 words)
– 1 patient-focused email newsletter
– 4 social media posts highlighting your services and patient success stories
The advantages of this approach are:
1. You save 15% compared to ordering these items separately
2. You get predictable content creation without having to manage multiple projects
3. I become more familiar with your practice, improving message consistency and quality
The investment would be $550 per month, with a 3-month initial commitment. This would ensure you have fresh content driving new patient inquiries every month without you having to think about it.”
===
The best time to propose ongoing work is after successfully completing 2-3 projects for a client who clearly needs regular content.
Business Tools (Many offer free plans)
What You Need | Free Tool Options | What It Does | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
Portfolio | Google Docs or Canva | Create and share samples | Limited design options in free version |
Invoicing | Professional invoices and payment tracking | Transaction fees on payments | |
Contracts | Create, sign and share simple agreements | Limited free documents per month | |
Project Management | Track projects and tasks | Limited integrations on free plan | |
Time Tracking | Track time on projects | Limited reporting on free plan | |
Email Marketing | BirdSend (free trial) | Send newsletters to past clients | No free plan, but a free trial is available |
When “Good Enough” Is Actually Good Enough
What You’re Working On | Needs to Be Perfect | Good Enough Is Fine | Why This Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
Headlines and first paragraphs | ✓ | First impressions determine if people keep reading | |
Calls to action (where you ask readers to do something) | ✓ | Directly affects whether people take action | |
Main selling points | ✓ | Core message must be compelling | |
Supporting details | ✓ | Details support but don’t drive decisions | |
Background information | ✓ | Context helps but rarely determines purchase | |
Choosing between similar words | ✓ | Has minimal impact on overall effectiveness | |
Your portfolio website | ✓ | Getting started matters more than perfection | |
Your first few client emails | ✓ | Volume and practice improve skills faster | |
First drafts | ✓ | Feedback helps more than perfecting alone | |
Final client deliverables | ✓ | Determines if clients come back and refer others | |
Proposals for high-value clients | ✓ | Major opportunities deserve extra effort | |
Work that will be widely seen | ✓ | Represents your reputation to many potential clients |
–
How to Start a Copywriting Business – 7-Day Recap
Day 1: Choose Your Services
Define your 3 main writing services, set your starter prices, and create simple descriptions of what you offer.
Day 2: Create Your Online Presence
Set up a free business email, optimize your LinkedIn profile for copywriting, and create a simple portfolio using Google Docs.
Day 3: Build Your Samples
Create 2-3 before/after examples by improving existing content from businesses that could use better copy.
Day 4: Identify Potential Clients
Make a list of 20 businesses that need better writing, find decision-makers’ contact information, and note their specific content problems.
Day 5: Prepare Client Messages
Create your outreach email template, prepare follow-up messages, and develop a simple project quote template.
Day 6: Start Reaching Out
Send your first 10 personalized emails, connect with 15 prospects on LinkedIn, and tell your network about your new services.
Day 7: Follow Up and Prepare to Deliver
Follow up with any early responses, create your client questionnaire, and set up your simple delivery system.
This minimalist approach focuses only on the essential steps to generate income. As you land your first clients and complete successful projects, you can gradually implement the more advanced strategies covered in this guide.
What will you accomplish on Day 1?
–
Disclaimer
The advice in this guide is for informational purposes. Your results may vary depending on your skills, industry, location, and effort—please consult with local professionals about specific legal, tax, or business questions for your situation.
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