Tips on Becoming a Copywriter

Discussion in 'Copywriting' started by SiteSmart, Feb 17, 2009.

  1. #1
    Hey everyone, I am currently a freelance web developer but have been getting into writing more and more now that I have to promote myself. I am considering the pursuit of some writing work to switch things up and possibly become a regular writer for some kind of technical publication. Any tips?
     
    SiteSmart, Feb 17, 2009 IP
  2. shailendra

    shailendra Peon

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    #2
    The writing skills always come from within and only then you will enjoy it. If you want to be a writer, you need to be an avid reader. You can do two things - either you master one field by reading a lot and then pen them down or you can write about anything that interests you :)
     
    shailendra, Feb 17, 2009 IP
  3. raj101

    raj101 Peon

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    #3
    Many copywriters make the mistake of over using the words “I”, “Myself” and “Me”. There is no harm in using these words sparingly but excessive use could potentially destroy the effectiveness of the copy. Lets explore the psychological aspects of these words.

    When you write words like Mine, Me, and I your readers would read You, Yours and You

    People are self centered, They like everything that inflates their egos, words that glorify them. Words that makes them important. They are not interested in others. When you use words like “I, Me, Mine” in your copy you directly deflate the ego of your readers. What you really should is inflate their ego instead— make them the center of attraction in this little letter that you’re writing for their sole benefit.
     
    raj101, Feb 17, 2009 IP
  4. diaadriansyah

    diaadriansyah Peon

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    #4
    Reading many ebooks and find information that you interests
     
    diaadriansyah, Feb 17, 2009 IP
  5. WritingConsultation

    WritingConsultation Active Member

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    #5
    You can always read up some excellent freelance writing sites. You can learn from the professionals. Apart from that, reading is indeed important especially in your area of expertise and don't forget to write so you can brush up your skills.
     
    WritingConsultation, Feb 17, 2009 IP
  6. akiza

    akiza Peon

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    #6
    there are lot of guides on internet on copy writing tips
    Just google it and read
    Practice is must
     
    akiza, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  7. mspennylane

    mspennylane Active Member

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    #7
    I agree with the previous posters. All you need to do is check out some blogs by writers to get started. Simply clicking on links from writers in this forum will get you to some pretty useful blogs, or do a search and see which blogs appeal. It will, of course, depend specifically on what you want to write.
     
    mspennylane, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  8. vietseoguy

    vietseoguy Peon

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    #8
    Im not a pro copywriter but here is my 2 cents: shorten the sentences/phrases but keep the tone/meanings. I'm practising this too. :)
     
    vietseoguy, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  9. blazinrachel

    blazinrachel Peon

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    #9
    Unique and precise content is needed in copywriting. Make sure you have provided enough information to the public, concise yet informative.
     
    blazinrachel, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  10. ASM Design

    ASM Design Peon

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    #10
    Every sentence should add value to the piece, no matter how small.
     
    ASM Design, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  11. Lakshmi SEO

    Lakshmi SEO Well-Known Member

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    #11
    To become writer you should have the capacity to express your perceptions through words
     
    Lakshmi SEO, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  12. JAMALG

    JAMALG Banned

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    #12
    What th...?? I need to be an avid reader, where did you get this idea? That is definitely a fantastic way to cut peeps at the knee caps. Some may love to write but have NO DESIRE to read.

    What is needed is to go find writers who you can maybe get an idea on how they started. Take what they did and twist it into your personal way, so you don't act/feel like a clone.

    Go tell marketplaces that you are looking for work, and then go make aquaintances with other writers. Referrals are a beautiful thing.

    Now I know the economy sucks and nobody seems to be dormant. Well this might be a GREAT TIME to maybe research and see what might be in demand. See what people are needing content for and go pre write it and then sell it.

    Now I know when I go through the websites wanted. I don't limit myself to just this forum, I go out to the beautiful world of Google.com!

    Go look up some phrases like "content wanted" "domain names wanted" "websites wanted" "writers wanted"

    Or if you are a specific writer, look at it at that angle.

    Just my .02
     
    JAMALG, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  13. rcavezza

    rcavezza Peon

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    #13
    Anyone know of any all inclusive how-to websites for copywriting?
     
    rcavezza, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  14. lightless

    lightless Notable Member

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    #14
    Write on something you *REALLY* know and love. Start a blog on that topic as well. Initially it will help in providing writing samples and to improve your skills. And later on it may bring you some business as well.

    When you do something you love, it shows.
     
    lightless, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  15. TomoeMichieru

    TomoeMichieru Peon

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    #15
    You can't learn to write without reading - it's like trying to learn how to draw without studying the techniques of other artists and learning how to incorporate their techniques into your style. There's a quote by Newton that goes something like, "If I can see far, it is because I have stood on the shoulders of giants."

    You have to know what came before you, what worked and what didn't. Otherwise you're shooting in the dark.
     
    TomoeMichieru, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  16. vietseoguy

    vietseoguy Peon

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    #16
    Ah its important to classify WEB/SEO copywriters vs Creative/Ads copywriters. And each needs specific skills. Which one are you planning to be? :)
     
    vietseoguy, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  17. webdev08

    webdev08 Peon

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    #17
    That is very well said, "TomoeMichieru" .
    You've just explained everything completely and I agree with you.;)
     
    webdev08, Feb 18, 2009 IP
  18. JAMALG

    JAMALG Banned

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    #18
    JAMALG, Feb 18, 2009 IP
    mspennylane likes this.
  19. SnowMarqGrafix

    SnowMarqGrafix Peon

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    #19
    I'm also an aspiring copywriter.. Well these are all great advice.. I'll be following everything.. Probabbly not everything but these will help me get started..

    Thanks to all that answered Sitesmart's Thread
     
    SnowMarqGrafix, Feb 19, 2009 IP
  20. gmaxxx

    gmaxxx Peon

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    #20
    I MUST SAY SUPERB WRITING
    WELL I WANT TO BECOME A COPYWRITER.....

    i have made ads for myt college i love advertising but my prob is
    i am a mechanical engg just finisghing ma mba and ad agencys say u dun have a background of advertising


    does creativity need any degree tell me?

    u can c my works
    gmaxxx.blogspot.com - indian movi revs
    maxadvertising.blogspot.com - my own creativity
     
    gmaxxx, Feb 21, 2009 IP