Are you ready to make this year the year you finally hit six figures as a freelance copywriter?
If you've been hustling your booty off but feel stuck on a financial fence, you're not alone.
Many talented copywriters struggle to break through that elusive six-figure mark.
But here's the good news…
With the right strategies and insider guidance, you can turn your freelance copywriting business into a money-making machine.
In this post, I'm going to share 10 game-changing secrets that can take your copywriting business from surviving to thriving.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these actionable techniques will help you attract high-paying clients, streamline your processes, and ultimately, boost your income.
But first, let’s get something straight…
What is Freelance Copywriting?
Freelance copywriting is the art of crafting persuasive and engaging content for clients on a project-by-project basis.
As a freelance copywriter, you're not tied to a single employer; instead, you work with various clients, each with unique needs and goals. This type of work can range from writing sales letters, emails, and landing pages to creating blog posts, social media content, and product descriptions.
One of the biggest perks of freelance copywriting is the flexibility it offers.
You get to choose your clients, set your rates, and work from anywhere in the world. However, this freedom comes with its own set of challenges. Unlike a traditional job, where a steady paycheck is the norm, freelancing requires you to constantly market yourself, manage client relationships, and stay on top of industry trends.
But don't let that scare you.
The potential rewards are immense.
Not only can you achieve financial independence, but you also get to enjoy a career that's creatively fulfilling and intellectually stimulating – without a micromanaging boss breathing down your neck & profiting off your work.
Plus, with the rise of the gig economy, there's never been a better time to start or grow your freelance copywriting business.
Alright, let’s jump to the good stuff…
10 Freelance Copywriting Tips to Explode Your Copywriting Business in 2024
Freelance Copywriting Tip 1: Master Your Niche
One of the most effective ways to stand out as a freelance copywriter is to specialize in a specific niche.
By becoming an expert in a particular industry or type of copy, you position yourself as the go-to professional for that niche. This not only makes it easier to attract clients but also allows you to charge higher rates for your specialized knowledge.
For example:
If you focus on health and wellness copywriting, you'll become familiar with the industry's unique language, trends, and pain points. Clients in that niche will see you as an authority who understands their needs better than a generalist ever could. Plus, your portfolio will quickly fill with relevant work that showcases your expertise.
To find your niche, consider your interests, past experiences, and where there's a demand in the market. Look at what types of clients are seeking freelance copywriting services and identify any gaps you can fill. Once you've chosen your niche, immerse yourself in it. Read industry publications, join relevant online communities, and continuously update your knowledge to stay ahead of the curve.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 2: Leverage Referrals
Referrals are one of the most powerful ways to grow your freelance copywriting business.
When a satisfied client refers you to someone in their network, it's a strong endorsement of your skills and reliability. This trust factor can significantly increase your chances of landing new clients and high-paying projects.
Here’s how to effectively leverage referrals:
Ask for Referrals
The simplest way to get referrals is to ask for them. After completing a project successfully, reach out to your client and ask if they know anyone who might benefit from your services. Be polite and specific in your request. For example, "I enjoyed working on your project and would love to help more businesses like yours. If you know anyone who needs a freelance copywriter, I’d appreciate the referral."
Provide Excellent Service
The best way to encourage referrals is to consistently deliver outstanding work. Happy clients are naturally more inclined to refer you to others. Go the extra mile, meet deadlines, and communicate effectively to ensure your clients are delighted with your services.
Offer Incentives
To encourage clients to refer you, consider offering a referral incentive. This could be a discount on future services, a small commission, or a gift card. For example, "Refer a new client to me, and you’ll receive a 10% discount on your next project." Incentives provide an extra motivation for clients to spread the word about your copywriting business.
Create a Referral Program
Formalize your referral process by creating a structured program. This can be as simple as a dedicated page on your website explaining how clients can refer others and what rewards they will receive. Make it easy for clients to refer you by providing them with referral links, templates, or business cards.
Stay Top of Mind
Regularly check in with past clients to keep yourself on their radar. Send them updates about your services, new offerings, or just a friendly note to see how they’re doing. Staying in touch increases the likelihood that they’ll think of you when someone in their network needs a freelance copywriter.
Referrals are a powerful way to grow your freelance copywriting business without spending a dime on marketing.
By actively seeking referrals and providing excellent service, you can tap into your existing network to generate a steady stream of new clients.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 3: Build a Strong Portfolio
A strong portfolio is your calling card as a freelance copywriter.
It showcases your skills, style, and versatility, making it easier for potential clients to see what you bring to the table.
But here's the thang…
Your portfolio needs to be more than just a collection of random samples. It should strategically highlight your best work and demonstrate your expertise in your chosen niche.
Start by selecting 5-10 pieces that best represent your abilities and the type of work you want to attract. If you're just starting out and don't have many samples, create some. Write mock projects that showcase your skills or offer to do pro bono work for non-profits and startups. The goal is to have high-quality pieces that demonstrate your capability to deliver results.
When presenting your portfolio, include a brief description of each project. Explain the client's needs, the approach you took, and the outcomes. This context shows potential clients not only what you did but also why it was effective. Be sure to add your own feedback on why the copy works. Discuss why you wrote what you did, the psychological triggers you employed, and the persuasive techniques you used.
Additionally:
Include specific metrics and results your copy produced. Did it increase sales by 20%? Boost click-through rates by 50%? These concrete results provide powerful proof of your abilities and give potential clients confidence in your skills.
Consider creating a personal website where you can easily share your portfolio along with testimonials and a professional bio. Your website can serve as a one-stop shop for potential clients to learn about you, view your work, and get in touch.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 4: Network Like a Pro
Networking is a crucial part of growing your freelance copywriting business.
The more connections you make, the more opportunities you'll have to land high-paying clients. But networking isn't just about collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections; it's about building genuine relationships that can lead to referrals, collaborations, and long-term clients.
Start by joining industry-specific groups, both online and offline. Participate in forums, attend webinars, and go to conferences related to your niche. Engage with others by asking questions, offering advice, and sharing valuable content. This positions you as an active, knowledgeable member of the community and increases your visibility.
Another effective strategy is to reach out to past clients and colleagues.
Let them know you're open for business and would appreciate any referrals. People who have worked with you before and know your capabilities are often happy to spread the word.
Also…
Don't overlook social media.
Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Instagram can be powerful tools for networking. Share your insights, showcase your work, and connect with potential clients. Remember, the goal is to provide value and build relationships, not just to promote yourself.
Lastly, consider joining a freelance copywriting course or workshop.
These can be great places to meet other copywriters, learn new skills, and find potential collaborators. Plus, they often provide a supportive community where you can share experiences and advice.
Networking can feel daunting, but it's all about building connections and providing value. The relationships you form can lead to more opportunities and help you grow your copywriting business faster than going at it alone.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 5: Upsell to Current Clients
One of the fastest ways to grow your freelance copywriting business is to upsell your services to current clients.
You've already built trust with them, so it's easier to offer additional services that can add value to their business while increasing your income. Plus, you can sweeten the deal by offering these upsell services at a significant discount.
Start by identifying opportunities where your current clients could benefit from more of your work.
For instance:
If you've written a landing page for them, suggest creating a follow-up email sequence to nurture leads. If you’ve crafted a compelling blog post, propose a series of posts on related topics to build their content library.
When approaching clients with upsell offers, be specific about the benefits. Explain how the additional services can help them achieve their goals, such as boosting conversions, driving more traffic, or increasing engagement. Use concrete examples and, if possible, share case studies or metrics from similar projects to demonstrate the potential impact.
Quick example:
Imagine you've written a sales page for a client. You could upsell by saying, "I noticed that you don't have a dedicated email sequence to follow up with visitors who don't immediately convert. Creating a targeted sequence could help nurture those leads and increase your overall conversion rate. I've done this for other clients and saw a 30% boost in conversions. Plus, since you're a valued client, I can offer this service at a 20% discount."
Offering a discount on upsell services not only provides extra value to your clients but also makes them more likely to take you up on the offer. It shows that you appreciate their business and are committed to helping them succeed.
By providing extra value at a discounted rate, you strengthen your client relationships and position yourself as a go-to resource for all their copywriting needs.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 6: The Power of Continuity
Continuity is the single fastest and most reliable way to break 6 figures in freelance copywriting.
You achieve this through setting up retainer contracts.
These arrangements provide you with a steady stream of income, reduce the need for constant client-hunting, and allow you to focus more on delivering high-quality work.
Retainer contracts involve clients committing to a set amount of work over a specific period, typically on a monthly basis. This could include writing blog posts, managing email campaigns, or producing ongoing social media content. The key benefit here is predictability – you know exactly what work you’ll be doing and how much you’ll be earning each month.
Here’s why retainer contracts are a game-changer:
1. Reliable Income
With retainer contracts, you secure a consistent and reliable income stream. This financial stability means you start each month knowing you have money coming in, which reduces stress and allows you to plan your finances better.
2. Passive Income
Retainer contracts provide a form of passive income. Once the contract is in place, you’re guaranteed payment for a certain amount of work each month without needing to constantly pitch or sell your services.
3. Reduced Client Hunting
Spending less time hunting for new clients means you can focus more on doing what you love – writing. It also allows you to build deeper relationships with your existing clients, leading to better results and more satisfaction for both parties.
4. Consistent Workload
Knowing your workload in advance helps you manage your time more effectively. You can schedule your projects, avoid last-minute rushes, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
5. Stronger Client Relationships
Long-term contracts foster stronger relationships with your clients. As you become more familiar with their business and goals, you can deliver more tailored and effective copy. This can lead to more significant projects and opportunities down the line.
To pitch retainer contracts effectively, emphasize these benefits to your clients.
For example, you could say, “By setting up a monthly retainer, I can ensure your content needs are consistently met. This not only guarantees you have high-quality content on a regular basis but also allows for strategic planning and more impactful results. Plus, I offer a discount for retainer clients, making this a cost-effective solution.”
Offering a discount for retainer clients can make the proposition even more attractive. For instance, you could offer a 10-15% discount compared to your standard rates, highlighting the value and savings of a long-term commitment.
Retainer contracts not only provide financial stability but also deepen your client relationships.
When clients see you as a long-term partner invested in their success, they’re more likely to trust you with larger projects and refer you to others.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 7: Become a Content Creator to Attract Organic Traffic
To truly explode your freelance copywriting business, you need to position yourself as an authority in your field.
One of the best ways to do this is by becoming a content creator.
By producing valuable content through mediums like YouTube, podcasts, or a blog, you can attract organic traffic and build a loyal audience over time. This not only leads to passive income but also attracts clients who come to you instead of you having to chase them.
Here’s why content creation is a game-changer:
Long-Term Growth
Platforms like YouTube, podcasts, and blogs offer long-term growth potential. Unlike social media posts that quickly disappear from feeds, content on these platforms continues to attract views, listens, and reads long after they are published. This evergreen content can generate consistent traffic and leads.
Passive Income
Creating valuable content can open up multiple streams of passive income. For instance, you can monetize a YouTube channel through ad revenue, secure sponsorships for your podcast, or use affiliate marketing on your blog. As your audience grows, so does your income potential, providing financial stability and freeing you from the constant need to find new clients.
Authority and Trust
Regularly producing high-quality content establishes you as an expert in your niche. When potential clients see that you consistently provide valuable insights, they’re more likely to trust you and hire you for their copywriting needs. Your content serves as a portfolio that showcases your knowledge and skills, making it easier for clients to decide to work with you.
Attracting Clients
Instead of spending all your time hunting for clients, content creation allows clients to find you. People searching for information related to freelance copywriting will come across your content, get value from it, and reach out to you for your services. This inbound marketing approach is far more pleasant and effective than constantly pitching to new prospects.
Building a Community
Creating content helps you build a community of followers who engage with your work and spread the word. This community can become a valuable network for referrals and testimonials, further boosting your credibility and reach.
To get started, choose the medium that best suits your strengths and interests.
If you enjoy speaking, start a YouTube channel or a podcast. If writing is your strong suit, launch a blog.
Consistency is key – regularly publish content that addresses the pain points and interests of your target audience.
Over time, this will drive organic traffic and attract a steady stream of clients.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 8: Create an Email List and Email Frequently
Building an email list is one of the best strategies for growing your freelance copywriting business.
An email list allows you to maintain direct contact with your audience, nurture relationships, and keep potential clients engaged with your services. By emailing frequently, you can stay top of mind, share valuable insights, and secure new gigs.
Start by creating a lead magnet – something valuable that you offer for free in exchange for an email address. This could be an eBook, a checklist, a template, or any other resource that your target audience would find useful. Promote this lead magnet on your website, social media, and other platforms to start building your list.
Once you have an email list, the next step is to communicate with your subscribers regularly. Send out emails that provide valuable content, such as tips, case studies, industry news, and personal stories. The goal is to offer consistent value and build a relationship with your audience. When people see you as a helpful and knowledgeable resource, they’re more likely to think of you when they need copywriting services.
Email daily to stay top of mind and continuously provide value. Make your emails personal and engaging – write as if you’re speaking directly to the reader. Share insights from your own experiences, highlight your successes, and provide actionable advice. Frequent communication keeps your audience engaged and builds a strong relationship over time.
Your email list is also a great way to promote your services and special offers. Occasionally, send out emails specifically aimed at securing new gigs. Highlight recent projects, share testimonials, and offer exclusive discounts to your subscribers. This can create a sense of urgency and encourage them to hire you.
Remember, the key to a successful email list is providing consistent value.
When your subscribers see the benefit of opening your emails, they’ll stay engaged and more likely to reach out for your services. Over time, this strategy can turn your email list into a reliable source of new clients and steady income.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 9: Scale with Advertising
To take your freelance copywriting business to the next level, consider investing in advertising.
While organic growth through content creation and referrals is essential, advertising can provide a significant boost by reaching a wider audience quickly.
One of the most effective platforms for advertising your services is Google Ads.
Google Ads allows you to target potential clients who are actively searching for freelance copywriting services. This means you can get your business in front of people who already have a need for what you offer, increasing the likelihood of securing new gigs.
Here’s how to make the most of Google Ads:
First, conduct keyword research to identify the terms potential clients are using to find copywriting services. Keywords like “freelance copywriter,” “copywriting business,” and “hire a copywriter” are a good starting point. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find relevant keywords with high search volume and reasonable competition.
Next...
Create compelling ad copy that highlights your unique selling points. Focus on what sets you apart from other copywriters – whether it’s your niche expertise, a proven track record of results, or your ability to write high-converting copy. Make sure your ads include a clear call to action, encouraging potential clients to click through to your website or contact you directly.
Set a budget that aligns with your goals and monitor your ad performance regularly. Google Ads allows you to start with a modest budget and scale up as you see positive results. Track metrics like click-through rates, conversion rates, and cost per acquisition to ensure your ads are delivering a good return on investment.
In addition to Google Ads...
Consider experimenting with other advertising platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram, especially if your target clients are active on these networks. Tailor your ads to the specific audience and platform to maximize effectiveness.
Investing in advertising can significantly increase your visibility and attract new clients.
By strategically using platforms like Google Ads, you can reach potential clients who are actively looking for freelance copywriting services and convert them into long-term clients.
Freelance Copywriting Tip 10: Invest in Yourself
To keep your freelance copywriting business thriving, you need to continually invest in yourself.
This means dedicating time and resources to learning and improving your skills. The most successful copywriters never stop growing – they stay ahead of industry trends, refine their techniques, and seek out new knowledge.
Start by taking courses that enhance your copywriting abilities and broaden your skill set. Look for freelance copywriting courses taught by industry experts that offer practical, hands-on experience. Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Copyhackers provide a range of courses covering everything from the fundamentals of copywriting to advanced persuasion techniques.
Attending seminars and workshops can also be incredibly beneficial.
These events provide opportunities to learn from top professionals, network with peers, and get inspired by new ideas. Whether it’s a local workshop or an international conference, the insights and connections you gain can have a lasting impact on your business.
Reading books by renowned copywriters and marketers is another powerful way to invest in yourself. Classics like "The Boron Letters" by Gary Halbert, "Breakthrough Advertising" by Eugene Schwartz, and "Ogilvy on Advertising" by David Ogilvy are packed with timeless principles that can elevate your copywriting game. Make reading a regular habit to continuously feed your mind with valuable knowledge.
Don't forget to stay updated with industry blogs, podcasts, and webinars. Subscribing to newsletters from top copywriters and marketers can keep you informed about the latest trends, strategies, and tools in the field. Engage with this content by taking notes, trying out new techniques, and integrating what works into your practice.
Finally...
Seek feedback from peers and mentors. Join copywriting communities where you can share your work and receive constructive criticism. Learning from others’ perspectives can provide valuable insights and help you refine your skills.
Investing in yourself isn’t just about acquiring new knowledge; it’s about applying what you learn to your work.
The more you invest in your education and growth, the more you'll see your copywriting business flourish.
Conclusion
Breaking into the six-figure mark as a freelance copywriter is absolutely achievable with the right strategies, persistence and work ethic.
Ready to transform your copywriting career?
Start applying these tips today and experience the growth and success you've been striving for.
Also…
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