Just get writing. Maybe start building up a portfolio and practicing, using a site like Helium, or eHow to publish, which can give you links to content, which are great as samples. Start looking for little jobs here and there, and start to build up clients. I more or less just jumped right into it, and my first month I made $800, and that was on an awful rate. lol. Now I make about $1400, and it's pretty much all based around the same cardinal rule: people are looking, get in touch with them. lol.
Wow - "how do you become a writer" ... any tips? Isn't that a bit like asking someone to put the whole internet on a disk for you?? Seriously - its hard to start, and also really easy! Its hard if you choose a topic you know little about or hate, its easy if you choose a topic you love or are well versed in. The simple tips, like write as if you were talking to a friend explaining your subject; keep your sentences and paragraphs short; have a defined plan for your article and stick to it; and don't overuse jargon are all tried and true because they work. I'd start with a topic you know and love - you suggest technical publications so must have an area of expertise - and make a start. FOR YOUR OWN PRACTICE You could even try re-writing an existing article already published in those publications, rephrase it the way you would have written it, then make an objective assessment of which you would prefer to read. They say practice makes perfect - I'd agree. One final tip before I close ... build a 'library' of good articles and other good writing that you can refer to for style ideas. Obviously you can't just rip someone else off, but you might come across a particularly well written article or ad and think "hmmm ... I could try and use that style in my xyz article" Hope this helps a bit Steve p.s. If anyone has got a Cd or DVD with the whole of the internet on it, please let me know!!!
What kind of copy? Mini sites or print stuff...I'd say if you're going for mini sites, test your copy first - if the results are great you'll know you can get people to pay you for your skills.
I think you should read and study salescopy everyday. Plus, practice writing salescopy just for the sake of it. Write for products that you actually don't sell if you have to. Also, read blogs by famous copywriters.
Why are you trying to switch to freelance writer? There is more money in being a freelance web developer.
I think the OP was asking for tips as to promote himself through writing and getting a little variety in his work. However, there are plenty who make a decent living as a freelance writer and have the skills to do so. I also think it's a good idea to study salescopy. Wherever you find it, whether it's online or a brochure in a shop somewhere, just take a look and have a quick think about why it works and why it doesn't. Even if it's not directly related to your business, it will help you develop an eye for those important details when it comes to writing for a specific audience and bringing about a desired action.
unfortunately yes. try to get a certificate in literature o creative writing that my be your way. most of all I'd tell you to be passionate and get involved in what you want to do e.g. why don't start a blog about copywriting? you might practice and get some audience and turn it into prospect customers... good luck!
When copywriting do not research one site. Its always best to research 2 more sites when copywriting as it will make your articles seem more eclectic.
1) Copywriting comes from practice. Reading helps, as does studying other copywriters, but practice is the best way to develop your skills. 2) Realize that not everything is going to be a "hit". Even the "great" copywriters come up with turds every now and again. Don't expect perfection every time. 3) Test your copy. Write 2, 3, or more versions of your copy, and test each one to see which produces the best results. 4) Get someone qualified to read your work and provide useful critiques. It doesn't matter if your mom, sister, wife, best friend, or chocolate lab thinks you're a great writer... find the people that are willing and able to bust your skull and make you continually refine your work.
Great tips above. And with copywriting, learning to rewrite and perfect that copy a few times is a great way to practice, both to find out how to write more concisely and to see what works as lhrowley said.
Practice, practice and more practice. Works like a charm. I doubt that those three magic words could ever be used excessively. I'll rephrase weight loss programs - the best thing that you can write is the thing you'll write. Period.