Copywriting side hustle guide:
- Find your copywriting niche.
- Build your copywriting portfolio.
- Market your copywriting services.
- Look for copywriting jobs.
- Set up your copywriting side hustle business.
- Learn copywriting techniques.
- Enhance your copywriting skills.
- Manage your workflow.
- Scale your copywriting side hustle.
Starting a copywriting side hustle can help you earn extra income. Freelancers on Upwork make $50–$150 per hour, with top earners reaching over $200. Demand for quality content is growing, especially in eCommerce. Content marketing now makes up 30-40% of eCommerce budgets. Copywriting includes various formats. It includes SEO website copy using tools like Surfer SEO and Clearscope. Additionally, copywriting can also be email campaigns in Klaviyo or Mailchimp. It often sees 15–25% open rates. HubSpot reports that SEO-driven copywriting can boost web traffic by 55%.
Copywriting is a flexible side gig. You can start with a few projects on Fiverr Pro or ContentWriters.com. Work 10-15 hours a week while keeping your main job. Platforms like Contently and ClearVoice let you showcase your work. As you gain experience, you can raise your rates to $0.25–$0.75 per word. A 2024 FlexJobs survey shows that most copywriters perform their work from home. You can work from anywhere using sites like ProBlogger or LinkedIn's freelance marketplace.
The hardest part of starting is landing your first clients. With thousands of freelancers on sites like Upwork, standing out requires effort. Networking on LinkedIn, where companies hire freelancers, can help. Also, use niche job boards like MediaBistro. Setting competitive rates is also tough for beginners. A good starting point is $0.10–$0.20 per word or $50–$75 per hour for email work. Tools like Trello and Grammarly make project management and quality control easier. Building a reputation with testimonials on sites like Clutch.co helps. Referrals bring much of an experienced writer's new business.
What to expect before the live session?
I’ve been running this blog for a few years, trying to crack the toughest keywords on Google. I'm doing an online business that brings in over $52K monthly. This article shares nine steps to help you start a copywriting side hustle. Plus, I’ll give you some extra ideas to earn a little more on the side through copywriting.
1. Find Your Copywriting Niche
A copywriting niche is where you'll focus your services. Finding this specific area helps you:
To find your niche, identify your interests and skills. For example, if you've worked in healthcare, you could write medical content. HubSpot says 82% of businesses want industry-specific content. And ZipRecruiter reports that healthcare copywriters earn $36.74 per hour on average. Specializing can increase your appeal to clients.
Next, research market demand to ensure your chosen niche is profitable. Check how often people search for your niche topics. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or SEMrush. This will help you see how popular your niche is and how much competition there is. Finally, review job listings on Upwork and LinkedIn. Upwork lets you see the number of job listings available for any specific job search.
Some profitable copywriting niches include:
These copywriting niches can lead to higher pay. ZipRecruiter says healthcare copywriters make about $36.74 per hour on average. Pick a niche that matches both your interests and market demand to keep work steady. As a side hustler, you can start in one niche. Then, as you gain experience, you can branch out or change.
2. Build Your Copywriting Portfolio
To build a strong portfolio for a copywriting side hustle:
Your portfolio should include a mix of real client work and spec ads to show your full range of skills. A LinkedIn study found that a strong portfolio boosts freelance job wins by 70%. 48% of freelancers find clients via their online portfolio or website, adds Forbes. So, a good collection of your best work samples can help you find a side gig.
Canva is a great tool for designing your copywriting portfolio. You can browse templates for ideas. Then, customize them with your details, writings, and client testimonials.
3. Market Your Copywriting Services
To market your copywriting services, build a strong personal brand. Use social media to reach potential clients. The first step is identifying your unique selling proposition (USP). This could be a niche expertise, a unique style, or a knack for meeting tight deadlines. If you excel at writing persuasive emails, call yourself an "Email Copywriting Specialist." Forbes notes that a clear USP can boost your brand and attract your audience. This message should be consistent across your website, social media, and portfolio.
Social media platforms are powerful tools for marketing your copywriting side hustle. Use LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to showcase your work. They can help you build a professional network.
Consider these social media marketing strategies:
Forbes reports that 77% of businesses use social media to connect with customers. This shows its effectiveness. Additionally, LinkedIn states that 80% of professionals consider networking crucial for career success. By engaging on these platforms, copywriting side hustlers can boost visibility. They can also establish themselves as reliable experts in their field.
4. Look for Copywriting Jobs
To find copywriting jobs, target popular job sites. Use Upwork, LinkedIn, and Indeed. They often post copywriting roles. Begin by searching for terms like “copywriter,” “content writer,” or “SEO writer."
Besides Upwork, LinkedIn lets you set alerts for job posts. You can get notified when someone seeks a copywriter or any other profession.
Create a profile on each platform. Highlight your skills, like persuasive writing, SEO, and email marketing. Also, include portfolio samples. Upwork provides a platform for you to bid on projects. So, craft proposals that address each client's needs.
Along with using job boards, networking is essential for finding copywriting jobs. Join online communities for writers, like Facebook or LinkedIn groups for freelance writing. You can also check paid sites like ProBlogger or Freelance Writers Den. They share high-quality job listings. Networking in these groups connects you with other writers and potential clients. They sometimes post job opportunities in the community.
5. Set Up Your Copywriting Side Hustle Business
To start a copywriting side hustle, first pick a business structure. Most freelance copywriters choose to be sole proprietors. In fact, over 80% of freelancers are sole proprietors, making it ideal for part-time work. If you plan to expand or hire subcontractors, set up an LLC. It offers personal asset protection.
Next, create a fair pricing model. You can charge per word, per hour, or per project. Smart Blogger says entry-level copywriters charge $15 to $30 per hour. Experienced copywriters can charge up to $100 per hour. Finally, set up systems for contracts and invoices to keep your business organized.
Consider these factors when setting your copywriting rates:
Manage contracts and invoices as the final step. Contracts must outline the work, deadlines, and payment terms. You can use templates from tools like Hello Bonsai or And.co for simple contracts. Invoicing software like FreshBooks or QuickBooks helps track payments.
Filthy Rich Writer discusses starting some notes before starting a copywriting side hustle. She includes treating it as a business. Nicki Krawczyk advises managing finances and planning taxes. Also, consider seasonality when scheduling work. Filthy Rich Writer advises new freelancers to build their client base and savings.
6. Learn Copywriting Techniques
Copywriting techniques help side hustlers write content that attracts and converts clients. One critical technique is crafting headlines that convert. A strong headline grabs attention and encourages reader engagement. Copyblogger says that 80% of people will read your headline. But, only 20% will read the rest of your content. To make headlines effective, focus on clarity, urgency, and benefits. Try different formulas, like questions, how-tos, and lists.
Writing persuasive body copy is also important. It keeps readers engaged and drives action. It should address the readers' pain points and offer solutions. It should also build credibility through examples or testimonials. A study by Jakob Nielsen found that web users read only 20% of a webpage's text. So, write concise and impactful copy.
To improve readability:
Effective CTAs are the final push to convert readers into customers. WordStream reports that using the word "free" in a CTA can boost conversions by 4.2%. Make CTAs specific, action-oriented, and aligned with user intent. A strong CTA must convey value and urgency. It should prompt readers to sign up for a newsletter or make a purchase.
Chris Orzechowski is a freelancer from Westfield, New Jersey. In 2017, he turned his copywriting side gig into a business. He learned copywriting techniques by online coaching and courses, books, and blogs. By regularly sharing content with his email list, Chris attracts clients. He earned about $52,000 from copywriting in 2016—almost as much as his day job.
7. Enhance Your Copywriting Skills
Following industry experts helps you learn new strategies and stay motivated. Experts like Joanna Wiebe of Copyhackers and Ann Handley of MarketingProfs share insights on social media and blogs. They give free tips on optimizing landing pages and email copy. A GetContrast survey found that 91% of B2B professionals prefer webinars. Following these experts will give you access to their advanced, proven writing techniques.
8. Manage Your Workflow
Managing workflow helps you stay organized and meet deadlines. Organizing projects and deadlines in a systematic manner is the first step. Use time-blocking or priority lists to manage daily tasks. A content calendar in Google Calendar can track key deadlines and milestones. According to Reclaim AI, time-blocking can increase productivity by as much as 80%. Breaking larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps ensures focus and timely completion.
Project management tools are essential for streamlining workflow, especially when handling multiple projects. TeamStage reports that 77% of successful projects use project management software. This shows the tools' importance in organizing work and meeting deadlines.
Apps like Trello, Asana, and Monday.com allow copywriters to:
Balancing many clients is challenging but crucial for freelance copywriters. Using color-coded systems in apps helps differentiate between clients and focus on projects. Set boundaries to manage client demands. Use fixed office hours for communication and Calendly for scheduling meetings. Exploding Topics says 44% of project managers see a lack of resources as a major challenge.
9. Scale Your Copywriting Side Hustle
Scaling a copywriting side hustle means using strategies to grow and boost income. One key approach is hiring subcontractors. As the workload grows, you must bring in other writers or specialists. This will help you meet deadlines and handle larger projects without losing quality. Upwork and Fiverr help you find reliable subcontractors for editing, research, and writing. A Billd report found that 70% of subcontractors struggled in 2023 due to a lack of workers. This highlights the need for dependable help.
When managing subcontractors, you must:
If you don't want to hire freelancers, use writing tools. It helps you produce high-quality copy. Ippei's Content Writer uses advanced systems to create optimized, well-researched content. This tool delivers high-quality articles on time. It analyzes Google search results and uses real-time data. So, it makes sure your content is accurate and up-to-date. Plus, the option to create and customize outlines gives you more control. It makes it easier to handle many projects and grow your copywriting business.
Another way to scale is by expanding your copywriting service offerings. Diversifying services can attract new clients and increase income. For instance, a copywriter who writes blogs might add email and SEO content. Guidant Financial says 71% of small businesses expect growth by expanding their services. Tools like Yoast SEO can help you optimize content for search engines. Apps like Mailchimp can help manage email campaigns.
15 Copywriting Side Hustle Ideas to Boost Your Income
1. Landing Pages or Sales Page Copywriting
Landing page, or sales page, copywriting boosts conversions on websites. You'll write persuasive content that urges visitors to take action. This helps businesses build an online presence and increase revenue. After all, HubSpot says the average conversion rate for landing pages is 5.89%.
ZipRecruiter says sales page copywriters earn $36.74 an hour on average. To boost earnings, build a strong portfolio to showcase successful projects. Or, offer package deals or extra services, like A/B testing suggestions.
Downsides of this copywriting idea include:
2. Publish a Book on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing
Amazon KDP lets you sell ebooks to millions of Kindle readers. With over 30 million active Kindle users in the U.S., Amazon has a vast pool of potential readers. Self-publishing can also provide a steady side income. According to Zonguru, Kindle writers can earn between $150 and over $20,000 per month. WordsRated highlights that Amazon’s KDP has over 1 million authors. It is the largest self-publishing platform, but this popularity also means high competition.
To increase earnings in this copywriting idea:
3. Resume Writing
Resume writing creates job applications that stand out and get noticed. CareerBuilder found that employers reject 84% of resumes for being too impersonal. Also, 57% reject submissions for no thank-you note, and 54% for lack of customization. You can help by making resumes more personal and professional. It's a great way to use your skills. Start by exploring platforms like LinkedIn ProFinder, Upwork, or Indeed.
Resume writing can also provide a good side income. ZipRecruiter reports that resume writers in the U.S. earn an average of $18.27 per hour. Yet, managing client expectations and staying updated on industry trends can take time.
To boost earnings in résumé writing:
4. Technical Writing
Technical writing translates technical ideas into easy-to-understand materials. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says technical writing jobs will grow by 7% from 2022 to 2032. There will be 4,800 job openings each year. You can check job platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed. Indeed reports that the average salary for a U.S. technical writer is $37.13 per hour.
To earn more in technical writing:
5. Transcription Services
Transcription services turn spoken language from audio or video recordings into written text. U.S. Legal Support reports a growing demand for transcription services across industries. Legal transcription holds a 90% market share in North America until 2029. This shows strong opportunities, especially in law. To begin, explore platforms like Rev, TranscribeMe, or GoTranscript.
6. Product Descriptions Writing
Product description writing creates descriptions that highlight a product's features to attract buyers. Shopify reports that 10% of e-commerce sites can't meet their product description needs. Also, Conversioner found that 76% of shoppers value descriptions over reviews and images.
To earn more in product description writing:
7. Content Editing
Content editing ensures that written materials are accurate, clear, and engaging. It involves polishing content to enhance quality. HubSpot reports that 72% of marketers want relevant content for success. As quality content needs grow, there is room for your expertise. Check Upwork, Freelancer, and ZipRecruiter for job postings.
Zippia states that content editors in the U.S. earn an average of $36.06 per hour, offering good income potential. However, Zippia projects a 5% decline in demand for content editors from 2018 to 2028. This may lead to fewer job opportunities.
To increase earnings in content editing:
8. Proofreading
Proofreading checks for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. It ensures clients' materials are flawless. Ashley Festa found that 54% of employers would hire a proofreader to fix errors in their posts and tweets. You can help improve articles, blog posts, and academic work.
To start in proofreading niche:
For extra income, Indeed reports that U.S. proofreaders earn an average of $22.37 per hour. Zippia also notes an 11% increase in proofreader salaries over the past five years.
9. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Writing
SEO optimizes online content to increase visibility on search engines like Google. By using keywords and other techniques, you improve a website’s ranking. In 2023, 69% of companies invest in SEO, according to EnterpriseAppsToday. This is a huge chance to help businesses improve their online presence. You can use tools like Google Analytics, SEMrush, and Moz. It assists you in finding SEO trends and keywords.
10. Video Scriptwriting
Video scriptwriting creates scripts that engage viewers and meet clients' goals. ReelSEO reports that 96% of B2B firms use video in their marketing. Of those, 73% see a positive ROI. You can enhance marketing strategies by crafting compelling stories for videos. To start, explore platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. Glassdoor reports an average annual salary of $63,973 for U.S. video scriptwriters.
To increase income in video scriptwriting:
11. Social Media Management
Social media management involves creating, scheduling, and monitoring content across social platforms. The Department of Labor Statistics predicts a 10% growth for this role by 2026. To begin, explore social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Helping businesses build their online presence is a great way to earn a side income. Indeed reports an average salary of $57,773 for U.S. social media managers.
You can offer services such as:
12. Blogging
Blogging means writing and sharing content online to attract and engage readers. As a side hustle, it involves writing posts for a specific audience to boost traffic. Also, it encourages actions like subscribing, sharing, or buying.
LinkedIn says the most profitable U.S. blogging niches are:
To start, check WordPress, Blogger, or Medium for creating and hosting your blog. Millennial Money reports that finance blogs can earn over $100,000 a year. This is after two years of building traffic and subscribers.
13. Ghostwriting
Ghostwriting is writing content for someone else who takes credit as the author. It’s in high demand for books by celebrities, politicians, and public figures. You remain anonymous, while the client receives recognition as the author. Kary Oberbrunner of Medium says that 70% of published books are ghostwritten. So are 99% of celebrity, political, and artistic books.
To start, use platforms like Upwork, Guru, or Reedsy. It connects you with clients and publishers. ZipRecruiter reports that the average U.S. ghostwriter has an annual income of $55,000. To increase your income, specialize in a genre like business, self-help, or fiction.
14. Become a Freelance Writer
Freelance writing means creating content for various clients on a project basis. Scott Galit, CEO of Payoneer, says the pandemic increased demand for freelance writers. Freelancer.com says that, in 2024, writing and marketing are the top freelance fields. To start, join platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or ProBlogger. ZipRecruiter says freelance writers in the U.S. earn an average of $4,034 a month. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 131,000 U.S. writers. It shows the need to stand out in a competitive field.
To increase your rate in freelance writing:
15. Email Marketing
Email marketing creates persuasive content for promotional emails. It aims to engage and convert the target audience. You are supporting a business’s marketing strategy. Campaign Monitor says 64% of small businesses use email to connect with customers. Also, HubSpot Blog Research reports that 38% of brands are raising their email budgets. This shows a growing demand for skilled email copywriters. To start, try platforms like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, or Undeniable. They offer easy tools for creating and managing campaigns.
To boost earnings in email marketing:
How Much Can You Make In Copywriting Side Hustles?
You can make an average salary ranging from $32.81 per hour to $69,047.08 per year in a copywriting side hustle. This is from various sites, like Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter.
Is Copywriting A Good Side Hustle Idea?
Yes, copywriting is a good side hustle idea because of the growing market for this skill. CareerExplorer says the U.S. has about 131,200 copywriters. Job growth is expected to be 7.6% from 2016 to 2026. Also, Glassdoor reports an average copywriter salary of $69,047 per year. This field offers flexibility and opportunities in many industries. They include advertising, marketing, e-commerce, healthcare, tech, finance, and banking. The steady demand makes it a good way to earn extra income.
Alex Cattoni thinks copywriting is a great side hustle. But, to succeed, you need confidence and to take the first step. She says many new copywriters get stuck. They focus too much on tools, training, and resources. While helpful, these won’t matter if excuses or self-doubt hold you back. Cattoni says this mindset is why 90% of new copywriters fail. It's not because of a lack of skill or training. It's because they don't believe in themselves enough to start.
Conclusion: Create Predictable Passive Side Income with Local Lead Generation
Local lead generation creates a predictable passive side income. It also doesn’t require you to have huge upfront costs. You can build websites for as low as $500 each and rank them in Google search results. After you rank well on search engines, you rent these websites to local businesses. They pay $500 to $2,500 a month for each site. In terms of competition, local lead generation wins. In copywriting side hustles, you compete with about 131,200 employed U.S. copywriters. That's a huge number. In local lead gen, there's much less competition. You're ranking in local cities and towns. You compete with 10-15 handfuls of companies.
Finally, local lead generation has profit margins reaching 95%. It's because you're selling leads and generating free, no-cost traffic. A tree service website I built and ranked in 15 hours has made $168,000 since 2015. If you want a business model with a low investment, less competition, and high ROI, try local lead gen biz.
