Let’s get to know more about our founder and answer some frequently asked questions.
Q: How long have you been a copywriter? A: I started copywriting in 2007.
Q: How did you get into copywriting and what do you like about it? A: I have always enjoyed writing. I think one of my favorite aspects of being a copywriter is working with a variety of people across different fields and organizations. As a copywriter you get to learn something new with every job or project. Some people think that copywriting is a lonely career but you get to work with and learn from so many other professionals.
Q: Was copywriting something that always interested you? A: Originally I wanted to be a fiction writer. But I came across more copywriting opportunities and started focusing on writing marketing content.
Q: What made you start Copywriter Magazine? A: I started Copywriter Magazine because I want I want to provide factual, fun and useful information for all copywriters, from newbies to seasoned copywriters. I enjoy sharing my experiences as a writer and hope others will enjoy reading and learning from the information I provide.
Q: What does a typical work day look like for you? A: First, coffee! I split my day working on current projects, marketing my writing services and reading emails, copywriting information and books.
Q: What projects have you been a part of that have been your favorite and why? A: I think one of my favorite copywriting projects was being part of the startup magazine Vegas Legal. I wrote the first two cover stories and various articles since it was founded in 2013. Working on projects on this magazine allowed me to meet some Vegas icons such as former mayor Oscar Goodman and actress Susan Anton. Vegas Legal has a following and is well respected among legal and business professionals in Las Vegas.
Q: What kind of education/experience is needed to get into copywriting? A: I get asked this question all the time. You don’t need a degree to become a freelance writer yet most organizations require their staff writers to have a BA degree. A BA degree in journalism or marketing is helpful but any major works. I think it is more important to have good writing skills than experience to start a career in copywriting.
Q: What skills are beneficial to have when becoming a copywriter? A: It is important to understand what a copywriter does. Copywriters are essentially salespeople with a pen. You need to have good listening skills and understand what makes people tick. You will also need to be a strong researcher and editor of your own work.
Q: Is being a copywriter a financially secure career choice? Was it something that was hard to become successful in at first? A: Many copywriters make a good living, but generally in-house (staff) copywriters make more than freelance writers. Success in copywriting takes time and effort. There is a lot of competition. You need to be agile, persistent and take steps to stand out.
Q: What advice would you give someone like me who is interested in becoming a copywriter? A: First, read Scientific Advertising. It should be required reading for anyone interested in becoming a copywriter. The information in this book will always be relevant to a copywriter.
Q: Are there any other tips for new copywriters? A: Yes, there are a few things all new copywriters need. A website that looks professional. Create a site that captures your style and highlights your work. If you have not landed a gig, write on a topic you enjoy and polish it. Join online writer groups to network and get information on opportunities.
Q: In the beginning of your career, is there anything you would do differently knowing what you know now? A: Yes. It is important to be more proactive. I would have pursued clients through online groups and networking instead of only looking for writing gigs through job postings.
We hope you enjoyed reading this interview. We would love to hear from you with any comments or questions.
And as our founder always says,
Happy writing!
Copywriter Magazine 