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How to Become a Freelance Copywriter

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(9 Ratings)

If you enjoy writing and want to make good money, freelance writing may be the career for you. When you become a freelance copywriter you will write for clients who need your services and will pay top dollar for them. Learn how to become a freelance copywriter and start your new career today.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Computer
  • Fax machine and line
  • Business cards
  • Cell phone with voice mail
  1. Step 1

    Search the phone book for businesses you would be interested in writing for and make a list of names and phone numbers to call.

  2. Step 2

    Call all of the numbers on the list with a short explanation on what you can offer their business. Write this out ahead of time and practice what you want to say so you will be comfortable with it.

  3. Step 3

    Set up a time to call back after you send out a packet of information to interested clients. Send a few business cards and a letter that explains what you do and how your work can help their business. They will be more interested on how you can help their business, so put emphasis on the benefits.

  4. Step 4

    Meet with potential clients in person when possible. People are more likely to hire you after a meeting than if you just talk to them on the phone. Set up a lunch meeting or just go to their business to drop off business cards in person.

  5. Step 5

    Advertise your services in the newspaper, local magazines and the phonebook. Leave business cards with ad agencies. They will sometimes be busy and need an extra writer.

  6. Step 6

    Write a press release about your services and submit it to local magazines and the newspaper. This will get more attention than an advertisement and give you more space to explain what you offer.

  7. Step 7

    Join the local Chamber of Commerce. The C of C is made of local business owners with lots of need for your services. It holds meetings and luncheons regularly and is a great place to meet potential clients.

Tips & Warnings
  • Have business cards made with your phone and fax numbers on it. Include your email address.
  • Get a cell phone with a voice-mail plan. Carry your cell phone with you so you don't miss important calls. You can turn on the voice mail to take calls while you are busy with a client or working.
  • Being a freelance copywriter will allow you flexibility in when and how you work. You can conduct all of your business on the phone and through a fax machine or computer. This will allow you to send over samples or rough drafts immediately.
  • Don't do work free. Many writers will agree to write on spec to get samples to add to their portfolio. If you don't have any samples and want to write a few pieces gratis, offer your services to a charity. Offer to write a brochure, newsletter, article or press release--you'll get a sample to show future clients while offering your services to a good cause.
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