Once upon a time before I was a copywriter, I was a freelance journalist. We’re not talking a massive pivot here. I went from writing words for magazines and newspapers to writing words for businesses. I do things a bit differently now – but it’s still all about the words.
And that’s good news if you’re looking for a copywriter with shed loads of writing experience. Like nearly 40 years – blimey, that makes me old! – of writing experience.
Here’s why…
I know nothing – and I know everything!
As a freelance journalist I never knew what I’d be writing about next. Botox, celebrity diets, domestic violence, money – you name it, I’ve written about it. Sometimes topics would be way out of my comfort zone. ‘What? I know NOTHING about THAT!’ But learning something new was part of the job I really loved. I was a total research freak! With every new commission, I dug deep into the subject to build my knowledge. It meant that when it came to interviewing experts and real-life people, I was well informed and knew all the right questions to ask.
It’s a skill that’s nicely transferred to copywriting.
I’m not phased writing about a sector I haven’t covered before. Hell, bring it on! I’m going to research the f*** out of your business and your industry. And you know why that’s good? I’m going to come at your business from all angles and question you on everything. And why’s that good? Because I’m going to find out everything about your business and your customers. And all that nitty-gritty info is going to inform, engage and entice your customers to buy your stuff.
Yep, I know what you’re thinking…
Why not hire a copywriter with experience writing in your sector? Well, of course you can (and sometimes I might advise you to do just that). But what if you want someone who isn’t jaded writing about the same old same old. Someone who’s buzzing with excitement and enthusiasm. Someone who isn’t afraid to ask questions. Someone with decades of research experience.
Someone who used to be a journalist, perhaps?
* Need a research-driven copywriter for web content, blogs, award applications and case studies? Hit me up here
PHOTO: Gerd Altmann/Pixabay