Being a copywriter can be confusing.
On the one hand, finding copywriting jobs is easy. But on the other, the process has a steep learning curve.
You need to be both efficient and fast; this takes a lot of practice.
Thanks to the internet, there is no shortage of copywriting jobs. Even for the beginner.
But don’t expect clients to seek your services, you need to look for them.
How to Search for a Copywriting Job
The easiest place to start searching is Google. Type in ‘copywriting jobs’ and what turns up? A lot of unfiltered results.
Sifting through all these will take a lot of time. Time better spent on improving your copywriting skills.
That’s where online talent platforms come in.
Using Online Talent Platforms
Online talent platforms help match employers with freelancers.
The most popular platforms for finding copywriting jobs are:
- Freelance Marketplaces
- Job Boards
- Social Media
These platforms allow employers to post jobs, and freelancers can apply.
But, there’s a catch.
Many other copywriters are competing for the same jobs on these platforms. As a result, there is an imbalance in accessing quality jobs.
But don’t worry this guide is here to help you.
You’ll get quick starter tips on where and how to land your first copywriting job.
Freelance Marketplaces
Online freelance marketplaces have a bad reputation.
The main complaint is low pay due to competition. New freelancers to marketplace platforms are willing to bid low to get a job.
Don’t be discouraged.
Joining a freelance marketplace can help you develop your copywriting skills fast. You also have a better chance of landing your first client and slowly increasing your copywriter salary.
But it all depends on your marketing approach and effort.
How to Get Started
Online freelance marketplaces have been growing in scale. Due to their popularity, you can find jobs advertised from any location globally.
These are a few well-known freelance marketplace platforms:
Registration is in most of the platforms is pretty straight forward.
But if you want to increase your chances of getting hired you’ll need to do a couple of things:
- Create a detailed profile highlighting your best skills.
- Include a clear photo.
- Submit samples of your best writing into a portfolio.
- Make sure in your description you emphasize the benefits the client will receive when they hire you, always include a clear call to action.
- Set up your billing information using an online payment platform.
Some platforms will need a lot more information from you before they verify your account. But be honest in your application. Don’t over exaggerate your qualifications.
Once you’re given the go-ahead, start bidding on jobs.
But if you want an edge over your competitors, add this to your approach.
Have a Minimal Viable Portfolio (MVP)
A minimal viable portfolio includes short samples of your work. Use these samples of your written articles when you apply for jobs.
The sample should be 300-400 words and should target the client’s copywriting needs all while showing off your copy prowess.
The advantage of using an MVP is the client can see samples of your writing in their area of interest before they hire you.
Set Aside an Hour Daily To Bid for Jobs
You can do more than an hour, though. The main point is you need to set aside enough time to search.
Not all listings on these platforms are worth your time. You’ll need to be selective about which jobs you’ll prioritize.
To get the best jobs out of these platforms, keep this in mind:
- Don’t be too eager to take on any client. If you’re unsure about the client check their reviews and ratings. It should give you an idea of how your working relationship will be.
- Avoid work-intensive cheap jobs. They will keep you busy but won’t help improve your skills. If the client is asking you to do a lot of work for low pay, just move on.
- Ask for a referral after completing an assignment. Your reputation and ability to get a second job will depend on positive reviews and ratings from your clients.
Although these platforms are a good starting point, don’t become over-reliant on them.
Your ability to succeed depends on how well you diversify your job search.
Job Boards
If you’ve ever looked for work online then you must be familiar with online job boards. Their main difference to freelance marketplaces is the calibre of jobs.
The jobs advertised are from traditional employers and corporates. Think sites like Indeed and Problogger and even LinkedIn.
Job board platforms also have the following traits:
- No sign-ups required, though some have membership options.
- Your experience and education will determine how far you’ll go in the hiring process.
- No rating system.
- The jobs are usually long-term with good pay.
- Jobs advertised can be remote or commutable.
But a lot of these jobs lean towards a more traditional work system. Which translates to a preference for your qualifications.
Once in a while, you can come across an ideal job. If you believe you are qualified, apply for the job. Incorporate these tips into your process.
Have your networks post testimonials on your social media accounts
Especially if they are people of authority or work in a reputable company. But whatever they write, it should be truthful.
Apply early for the job
As soon as it’s posted apply for the job. You’ll have the advantage of having your application as first on the line.
This increases your chances of actually getting hired.
Use a Proposal Instead of a Cover Letter
Proposals and cover letters are equivalent to features vs benefits.
With features, you only describe your qualifications. That’s okay for a resume, but not for a cover letter.
Benefits focus on giving a solution to fix the problem, like a proposal. A proposal helps distinguish you from your competitors.
Job board platforms are good for securing long-term work, however, they limit you by focusing all your energy into one client at a time.
Social Media Platforms
Reportedly, there are over 3.5 billion social media users globally. This heightens your possibility of connecting with copywriting clients.
However, you need to engage, build relationships, and network before you sell your skills.
That’ll take time and patience. But, if you’re willing to spend both, here are a few tips to get a client through Social Media.
Join Writing Groups on Facebook, LinkedIn and Reddit
The best thing about joining a social media group is the support you’ll get from other members.
Show your expertise in the conversations and give value to members. Someone is bound to take note.
These are some copywriting groups you can join right away.
Use Hashtags to Search for Clients and Jobs on Twitter and Instagram
Twitter and Instagram work a little differently. There are job boards created by groups.
You can also search for specific hashtags to navigate to job posts.
Many brands and businesses post on Twitter and Instagram daily. Meaning, that if you follow them, you’re likely to be notified of jobs they post.
Start by checking out these links.
To become a great copywriter you’ll need to practice. What better way to get you started than an online training course?
