To become a copywriter:
- Become an expert in your native language.
- Learn how to weave together the right words. Learn what types of text tap into emotions or gets people's attention.
- Decide on a niche and create a writing portfolio.
- Pitch offers for writing jobs and build a client base.
In 2024, copywriting is an in-demand business model. Data suggests that there are over 131,200 copywriters in the USA. And the industry is set to grow by 7.6% until 2026. Copywriting is a way to make money online. But to earn an income, you need clients. You also need to write copy.
With the local lead generation business model, you can achieve passive income. Instead of writing every day, you own valuable digital real estate. Those assets get to the top of the SERPs and start producing leads. Then you can sell them to a local business for profit margins as high as 85%-90%.
How To Become A Copywriter
To become a copywriter:
- Understand the basics and master the core concepts of copywriting, like how to become an expert in your native language and how to write with emotive language.
- Decide on a niche and develop a copywriting portfolio.
- Build your writing client base and choose the right copywriting platforms.
- Refine your copywriting approach and learn how to land clients.
- Know how to set your rates and fill your funnel with high-paying clients.
To become a skilled copywriter, learn the basics of copywriting, which include writing clear, concise, compelling, and credible copy. Study other people's copy. Read other great copywriters like Jason Capital and Jon Benson.
Or watch YouTube writers like Alex Cattoni and CopyThat! Consider taking a copywriting course like Dan Lok's High Income Copywriter training. Then master the core concepts that include:
- How to write a headline
- How to create a landing page
- The best way to write sales copy & paid ads
- How to design a value proposition
The key is to learn as much as you can about your niche and ideal client. What words do they use? What questions are they asking? How can you craft text that delves into emotions? Understand their pains and desires. Then you can write with emotive language.
To land a copywriter job, know how to research a topic. Your job is to come up with an unusual angle. But one that is easy for your audience to read and understand. Make it exciting for your reader. Keep it short and reliable with a clear call to action.
Your niche can be industry-based, such as finance or B2B copywriting. Or it can be a specific platform like Facebook posts. But it can also be the type of copy you write, like SEO copywriting. Of course, you can opt not to niche and try to serve everyone. But as a generalist, you're not always thought of as the expert.
Niche copywriting gives you an edge. You become a specialist because your focus is on one area. As a result, you learn everything about the niche. Then you can create a blueprint by testing copy to see what works and what needs tweaking. Consider your skills. Do you excel in a specific area? Do you have previous experience or interest in a certain niche?
Use tools like Google Trends and People Also Ask to check out what topics are trending. What are people searching online? Is there an underserved market? Do you have a unique proposition you can offer this market? Don't be afraid to test a niche. Then if it's not the right fit for you, pick another until you find your ideal market.
Start by telling every person you know what you're doing. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to build connections and broaden your target market. People trust online reviews and recommendations from friends and family. Even more than they trust the information a business owner shares.
Studies show that even in 2024, 74% of consumers identify word of mouth as a critical influencer in their purchasing decision. But when you're just starting and don't have a portfolio, just be honest. Tell a potential client you don't have reviews yet. Then over-deliver for them. Do a great job in exchange for a review or testimonial. But this creates a domino effect.
Offer a referral program or incentive-based pricing. Or consider using paid ads. Then focus on developing relationships with the right people. For example, attend seminars and networking events in your community. Or reach out to other copywriters or agencies. Create multiple channels on the Internet, like an active social media presence, a website, a Google Business Profile, etc.
Leverage SEO copywriter hacks like keywords, title tags, and high-value content. Check out job boards like ProBlogger and Upwork-or copywriting sites like Textbroker or BloggingPro. Create a profile and network on platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook. Then share hyper-valuable copy online. Like stats, an educational piece, a tutorial, or a listicle.
Be the best commenter. Give the best answers. Show people why you're an expert. Tell them what sets you apart. Or how your copy can drive high conversions, increase brand awareness, get more leads, sales, etc.
To make money as a copywriter, you need to land paying clients. The secret is to create a system. Consider things like how you get leads, how you close sales, and what prices you charge for what services. Trial and error are part of the process. But as you work with more clients, consider what aspects are non-negotiable. What payment structure works best for you? What do reasonable deadlines look like?
Be as honest and transparent with your clients as you can. Don't burn bridges over late payments or miscommunication. Instead, develop a mutually beneficial contract for both parties that still protects you as a freelancer. Most clients don't set out to take advantage of your services. But if you're not clear on what kind of copy and how many edits/revisions, etc., are included in the agreed-upon price. Then you could do much more work than you counted on or risk getting a bad review.
Copywriters can charge by the word, the hour, or the project. The secret is to offer a flexible pricing structure that benefits both parties. When you first start copywriting, you're rates will be lower. But as you build a reputation and retain more clients, charge your worth. Check the Internet and see the going rate for writers where you live.
Use forums like Reddit and Quora to see what other copywriters charge. Then set your prices competitively. Once you have your systems in place, create a lead channel. Then get attention from the right people and source a steady stream of high-paying clients. There are 5.18 billion internet users and 4.72 billion people on social media.
It's all about gaining attention on the right channels. For example, post good copy and network with professionals on LinkedIn. Share engaging content on social media or YouTube. Reach out to high-end bloggers and offer to write as a guest. Build a landing page and sales funnel that targets one client, one problem, and has one clear call to action. Or, if you have a budget, invest in paid ads on Facebook or Google.
What Is A Copywriter?
Copywriters create compelling copy that gets a person to take action. They know how to tap into a buyer's pain points. What words to use to show people they have the best solution. Being a successful copywriter is all about using the right language. It's the phrases that speak to the people in their copywriting niche. Or the text that gives people a reason to act right now.
What Is Copywriting?
Copywriting is the language that drives a person to take action. It uses persuasive words and compelling text to get the right people's attention on the Internet. Good copy is the money words that drive a ton of eyeballs to an offer.
In 2024, users want to search by a specific feeling versus a particular topic. So to get attention, copy needs to tap into a person's emotions. Be better than what is already online. Provide them with value. Add a personalized call to action. HubSpot suggests that a personal CTA can increase conversion chances by 202%.
What Do You Do As A Copywriter?
As a copywriter, you're a creator who writes, researches, and edits copy. Copywriters can compose all kinds of copy. From direct response copy to white papers and email copywriting to long-form articles. A professional copywriter is the voice of a brand.
The key is to stay consistent on multiple channels. Then write engaging and creative content. The language that gets in front of the right people and drives traffic to an offer. Learn as much as you can about your potential customer:
- What are their problems?
- What are their dreams?
- Where do they hang out online?
- What type of copy do they like to consume?
Use tools like Google Trends or People Also Ask to find top searched phrases and verbiage you can use in your copy.
Check out the competition. Where are they lacking? What copy are they using that's getting a ton of engagement? Use third-party software like Ahrefs or SEMRush. See where there's a gap in the market or an underserved audience. Then share clear and concise copy that adds value. As a copywriter, you need to:
Be a good copywriter and become an authority in your niche. Overdeliver and pay attention to the details. Do the best job and gain a reputation as an expert copywriter. Then you can charge more and will make more money.
What Are The Qualifications Required To Become A Copywriter?
The qualifications required to become a copywriter include being native in the English language with stellar attention to the details. Good copywriters know how to develop a new way of doing things. They understand media production and the kind of copy that gets in front of the right people. Other copywriter credentials include things like:
People don’t hire professional copywriters to write copy. Instead, business owners hire copywriters to come up with stellar ideas and execute them on the right channels. Then they get a ton of eyeballs on their offers. Data states that 73% of companies outsource their copywriting. The secret is to learn how to sell. Become a master at communicating written sales messages.
Learn how to write text that targets the right people. What words are the best choice? What language will tap into buyer behaviors and touch their deepest pain points? But the most essential qualification for a copywriter in 2024 is to know how to write copy that gets people to take action. When your copy gets high conversions, it sells itself. But this is how you build a reputation as an authority in your niche.
How Long Does It Take To Learn Copywriting?
You can learn copywriting in as little as 2-3 months if you're willing to work hard and practice your craft. Dedicate yourself to learning the right writing skills. Learn how to sell yourself with words, and you can start making real money as a copywriter within a year. The key is to be persistent. Be willing to pitch a ton of offers. Then get ready to hear a ton of 'no's before you land your first 'yes.'
But you learn by doing and writing. Then you see what works. And the type of copy that gets the best response in your market. Copywriting takes testing and tweaking, and retesting. For example, Mirasee states that in 2024, headlines with numbers get 36% more clicks than those without. The more you write, the smarter you get. But that's how you master the craft and learn the right skills.
How Will You Market Yourself As A Copywriter In Your Niche?
To market yourself as a copywriter:
- Shift your mindset.
- Tell people what you're doing.
- Get the conversations started.
- Learn everything there is to know about your niche.
- Study the market.
- Pay attention to trends.
SmartBlogger says that adding the word 'because' and providing a reason in your call-to-actions can lead to a 34% rise in compliance. The idea is to sell to many people in your niche. So get active on social media. For example, What kinds of questions are people asking? What's working for other copywriters? How can you be better?
Take advantage of online strategies like email marketing copywriting templates, networking, forum commenting, etc. But don't write filler copy. Instead, post hyper-targeted copy that speaks to the right people.
Add storytelling to your social media or blog post. Nothing works better than story copywriting. People can't argue with a story. But they can identify with one. Storytelling has longevity. That's why it works. Consider investing in paid ads to get a few quick wins. Use offline approaches like word-of-mouth advertising: or networking and in-person events.
Ask for referrals. Offer an incentive program. Tap into the local market. Do the best work for your existing clients. But remember, the only way to become the expert is to write copy. Then write more copy. Get your words in front of as many people as you can. Pitch the best offer. Then over-deliver. But this is how your copy will market itself, how you can land freelance copywriting jobs and make some serious cash.
Is Copywriter A High-Paying Job?
Yes, being a copywriter is a high-paying job. But you need to land high-paying clients and have a steady stream of writing jobs to make the big bucks. Data reports that the average entry-level copywriter salary in the United States is $54,901 as of May 01, 2023. But the range typically falls between $49,601 and $61,801. There are a few ways to earn money as a copywriter:
In-house writer:
As an in-house writer, you're an employee of a company that sells a specific product or service, and your copywriting job is to produce high-level copy like a sales letter, email marketing campaign text, or even content marketing style articles. You can work in their office or remotely.
Agency writer:
As an agency copywriter, you're a digital marketing or advertising agency employee who writes copy for clients. Again you might be asked to work in their office. But most agency writers are in contract positions and have the option to work from home.
Freelance writer:
Skilled freelance copywriting can earn you $10K+/month. Plus, it's a way to own an online business. The key is to deliver results for their clients. To be a high-earner, know how to market yourself and how to sell copy to high-paying clients.
The secret to making a ton of money as a freelancer is to specialize. Learn everything you can about your niche. Then develop a solid portfolio and online presence. Don't limit yourself to sourcing work on sites like Upwork or freelancing platforms. Because if this is your strategy, you will hit an oversaturated market and a ton of low-ball offers. The jobs on these sites are finite.
They're geared toward low-hanging fruit (meaning low-end and mediocre writers). People that lack either the talent, the drive, or both. Of course, they're a good place to get a few wins when starting out with freelance writing. Then you have legit samples to include in your copywriting portfolio. Do a great job. Get a review or testimonial. Now you have social proof to share with a potential customer.
PRO TIP
To earn a six-figure income with your copywriting career, become the expert. Don't try to serve everybody. Instead, choose one thing. One type of copy, one client, one industry, whatever. Learn everything there is to know about the product or service you're selling. Who are the customers?
What are the buyer's behaviors? For example, What are their psychological principles? What are their number one pain points? How can you give them the best answer to their top questions? What can you offer to be the best solution to their problems? Have one focus. Then you can gain more insights into the market and become the expert.
Is Copywriting Hard To Get Into?
Copywriting isn't hard to get into. But it's not easy either. Copywriting isn't just a discipline you choose to pursue. It takes time to learn and master. Start by writing copy. Then write more copy. The more you practice, the better copy you'll create. Study other great copywriters like David Ogilvy, Dan Ferrari, or Alen Sultanic.
Then consider things like, What kind of copy do you enjoy writing? What does your ideal client look like? Will you be a specialist or a generalist? Copywriting is one of the most in-demand professions. You don't need a college degree or a lot of capital to get started. But if you have the right copywriting skill set, you can make a comfortable six-figure income from anywhere in the world. It's even possible to become a copywriter with no experience as long as you invest time and effort to learn the craft and build your portfolio.
Statistics suggest that there are over 32.5 million businesses in the USA. So there are way more business owners who need copy than there are copywriters to write it for them. But make it easy for your prospects to say yes. Don't ask for outrageous fees without a ton of proof to back up your claims. Don't be an expense. Instead, shift the narrative.
Sell yourself as an asset. Position yourself as a revenue generator. Become that person who creates the copy that lands high-level conversions. Or the one who can sell high-ticket sales products and services with their text. Lead with value and get paid to practice your skills at the same time.
3 Ways To Gain An Edge Over AI In 2024
Becoming a copywriter in 2024 has a new challenge. That is the continued advancement of AI writing tools like JasperAI and the recent trend around how to make money with ChatGPT. The global AI market value is set to reach $267 billion by 2027. But AI writing tools just regurgitate content. They lack a voice and aren't unique.
However, Siege Media + Clearscope reports that 62% of B2B and 38% of B2C businesses plan to use AI content generation tools to assist their content marketing efforts in 2023. The key is to gain an edge over AI. Copywriters who are masters of the written word can adopt the technology and continue to grow. So embrace AI. Then use these three ways to gain an edge over the tools.
1. Write Better Copy & Include A Unique Angle
Don't write bad copy. AI is a tool you can add to your arsenal to help you brainstorm. But it cannot craft stories that resonate with people on a personal level. AI lacks the personal touch. It doesn't have the nuance that makes copywriting so effective. AI might replace bad and mediocre copywriters. But skilled copywriters who have creativity and imagination.
The ones that know how to write copy with a unique angle. Or provide the best answer to questions people are asking online. Those copywriters will always be in demand. The key is to stay relevant. Keep one step ahead of everyone. Know who the top players are and how they're changing the game. Stay on top of current ways to write and execute copy. Pen a unique angle and create a voice that is distinct. Be memorable. Then write the best copy on the Internet.
2. Tap Into The Deep Psychology Of Why People Buy
Learn as much as you can about your buyer. Understand their pains and desires. Then craft copy that taps into their deep psychological behaviors and gets them to take action. Data suggests that people are triggered mainly by seven underlying factors: necessity, security, FOMO, identity, price, obligation, and happiness.
But most people buy products because they need them. The key is to know what needs or pain points someone has. Fear of missing out (FOMO) is another strong reason people buy. OptinMonster states that FOMO is a notable concern for 69% of millennials, and most react within 24 hours.
Here the focus is on current trends. Making a FOMO purchase gives someone an instant feeling of inclusion. People want to feel like they belong. But they also want to make themselves happy. Learn what makes your buyer happy. What problems do they have in their life? What questions are they asking online? The more you know about your buyer, the better copy you can write.
3. Develop A Better Value Proposition
It's all about value. Start by identifying the exact problems of a specific audience. Then show them why your product is the best solution to their problem. Focus on the quantifiable benefits of the solution. A value proposition is your differentiator. It's what tells people how you're different from your competitors, why you're unique and can offer them something better than the competition. But it needs to be relevant.
Tell the buyer just how your product solves their problems or can make their life better. Then use the right language to get in front of the right people. Research shows that 90% of your potential buyers hadn't decided about the brand they wanted to do business with before they started searching for vendors. But be authentic. Research suggests that 88% of consumers feel authenticity is crucial when deciding what brands they like and support.
What Is The Difference Between Being A Copywriter For A Company & Being A Freelance Copywriter?
The difference between being a copywriter for a company and being a freelance copywriter is that, as a freelancer, you need to land your own clients if you want to make money. Freelance copywriters work for themselves and have an online business. But to earn a steady income, a freelancer needs to find high-paying clients that want to give them money for their copy.
Whereas, when you're a copywriter employed by an agency or business, they supply the work. But there's no salary as a freelancer, and you don't get holiday pay. Freelancers don't have the job security that a senior copywriter or creative director in an in-house agency does. But they typically earn more. To make good money as a freelancer:
To be financially prosperous as a freelancer, share hyper-valuable copy. Write text that educates, informs, or adds value to a person's life. For example, publish blog posts, articles, and social posts about copywriting or marketing.
But don't write fluff. Instead, answer questions directly. Give the best response. Then get more active on social media. Influence platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn and network with other professionals.
Create a website with a bio page. Tell your potential clients about your experiences, qualifications, and rates. Add a few of your best copywriting samples. The key is to market yourself. Be better than the competition. Get real results for clients. Capitalize on gaps in the market. Provide the best value proposition and design a unique angle. Freelancers need to get attention.
But to be heard over all the other racket on the Internet be more helpful than the competition. Learn everything you can about your niche. Again, the secret is to specialize. Don't generalize. Become the authority. But that's how American writers can drive a ton of eyeballs to an offer and make money in 2024.
What Is The Difference Between A Copywriter & A Content Writer?
The difference between a copywriter and a content writer is that copywriters are like online salespeople. Their job is to write words that make money. Copywriters use persuasive language. Words that get people to take action. A copywriter knows how to connect with a specific audience with influential copy.
In contrast, content writers are fond-bond builders. They create and publish informative, educational, and entertainment-style articles or posts. A content writer's goal is to tell a story and build brand awareness. Copy and content writing are used interchangeably and are the crux of most marketing campaigns. The key is to stay true to the brand's voice. Then be consistent on every channel and keep your message clear.
Why Local Lead Generation Is A Better Way To Make Money Online In 2024
The local lead generation business model is a better way to make money online in 2024. Because, unlike a copywriter that only makes money if they write copy for a paying client. With the lead generation business model, you earn passive income. Lead generation is about building and ranking websites in one location that offer one service.
But the focus is on the local market. So you can get your sites to the top of the search engines in less than six months. Once those sites are at the top of the SERPs, they start producing leads. Then you sell them to a local business owner. Now you own valuable digital real estate that will only continue to appreciate.
At the top, your sites don't need a ton of work. You don't need to write new copy every month to make money. Instead, you leverage local SEO tactics and dominate the search engines. With lead generation, you're providing a service that people are actively looking for online. You own the website, the tracking number, and the leads. Build one. Then build ten more. Build a digital empire of assets that you 'rent' for cash. But that's how you create passive income in 2024.
