We already know what it takes to be a great copywriter: creating compelling, clear copy that can persuade readers to take action, engage in your content or learn from your writing!
So what does it take to run a copywriting business?
How do I start a Copywriting Business?
Focusing on the basics of copywriting is crucial in starting your own copywriting business. Planning and organisation will be your best friend in this new venture.
If you don’t feel determination and passion, you may want to rethink this decision, as this isn’t something that will come easy! But if done correctly, you will be left with a fantastic brand, a sustainable business and a client base that trusts you and your employees.
If you ask us, the preparation is well worth the reward.
10 Steps to Building a Copywriting Business
Let’s get into the critical steps of building a copywriting business.
Each step is crucial, and we could bombard you with reels of information. Instead, we will hold back and summarise the most critical parts to get your brain cogs turning!
1. Conduct Market Research
Market research is the foundation of any copywriting business, the copywriter's content and the inspiration for ideas and progression.
Understanding the broader landscape of copywriting marketing gives you insights into industry trends, modern customer preferences and any market shifts that will help you build an up-to-date and sustainable business.
CovertKit is a great tool to help you grow and monetise your audience, and from only $9.00/month for a creator’s account, it’s a worthy investment in your future.
2. Choosing your Niche and Copywriting Specialities
Starting a business from scratch is a challenging task. But gathering information on what you want your niche and specialities to be once you are up and running is a vital step.
One option is to open a business as a generalist copywriting business. This is an excellent option for start-ups to gain clients, credibility, social proof and experience.
Your second option is to focus on subjects you are passionate about and knowledgeable about. For example, if you studied business and media, taking this approach with your services can be a great way to promise success.
Thirdly, you can base your niche on those with high demand in the industry. Tools like Feedly will help inform you about current viral topics and news.
3. Writing a Business Plan to Succeed
Have you got a strategy in mind, goals you wish to achieve, and targets for the next three years? Get them all documented in a business plan!
Thoughts and ideas may have gotten you this far, but constructing a solid business plan will take control from now on. Believe us when we say it is necessary.
4. A Strong Portfolio
One of the essential parts of starting a copywriting business with client value is advertising and showcasing your capabilities.
A strong portfolio that highlights your diversity and reliability will surely bring in clients.
Not only will you reach a boarder audience through your online portfolio, but it is also an excellent way to show off those writing skills. Selling yourself to a potential client is a great way to show talent.
5. Discussing Your Rates
Your rates will change over time, and depending on how experienced you are when starting your business, rates can range over vast numbers.
You may choose to charge per hour, per word, or project. Either way, the most important thing to remember is that you charge for skill, value and quality of work. Don’t sell yourself short.
6. Building Your Network
Network building is one of the often forgotten or skipped steps in creating a sustainable business, but its power can result in rapid success in expansion.
You can easily begin networking online. For example, a LinkedIn account is a great way to find connections to benefit your business.
7. Accounting System
Owning your own business will entail handling your own administrative work, so you’re in luck if you have an accounting degree!
From spending to payments, your accounting system should be a top priority step on this list.
We advise keeping a Google spreadsheet to track income and expenses. A visual aid will help you crunch those numbers!
8. Marketing and Social Presence
You need to market yourself for the business to pick up. Let the world know you’re ready to create awesome content!
Social media is a great way to do this. Creating a social presence on platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter is a great way to advertise your service in today’s technology-driven society.
Look out for business start-up events, print creative and witty calling cards with your details and sell, sell, sell!
9. Self-Development and Consistency
Here at The Author’s Pad, we believe that self-development is a process that never ends once on the career path of a copywriter. That’s why we have created a community that serves all copywriters, junior, senior or business owners alike.
Join our bank of copywriting knowledge and continue growing and improving your business.
10. Rapport with Clients
This last step in building a sustainable copywriting business with client value should go without saying, but building rapport with your clients is necessary.
Your clients are your livelihood, so making sure that they are comfortable with your transaction, happy with the results and would recommend you to other potential clients is the only way to keep them on board!
Go the extra mile for clients, ask questions about the content they want you to create to appear attentive and interested, and, most importantly, follow through with deadlines, briefs and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the curious entrepreneur inside you asking for more information? Here are a few more FAQs on the topic of sustainable copywriting businesses.
Is Copywriting a Profitable Business?
Copywriting is a profitable business because the resources needed to succeed in this sector are limited. With copywriting mainly digital and online, starting a business and creating content can be completed relatively cheaper than other business models. For example, you don’t need to rent office space, stock up a kitchen with ingredients or hire cleaners like other business models might require.
How much does it Cost to Start a Copywriting Business?
According to Starter Story, the average cost to start a copywriting business in 2023 is around £5500. Apart from money, creating a copywriting business will also cost you time, focus, planning, and determination.
Is Copywriting a Good ‘Side Hustle’?
Copywriting is considered one of the best ‘side hustles’ out there! The better your skills are, the higher quality of content you create as a copywriter will determine your prices and income. Copywriting is a gold mine for someone with a natural talent for writing.
