Freelance work is on the rise. In the US alone, 36% of workers during the COVID-19 pandemic were freelancers, and the number is rising. With writing and content creation comprising 17% of the UK freelancer market, there’snever been a better time to start.

Although there is a lot of work for freelance copywriters, there’s also lots of competition. The key to getting yourself noticed as a professional copywriter is in your portfolio. Impressive copywriting portfolios make all the difference when applying for roles or reaching out to potential clients.

What is a copywriting portfolio?

A copywriting portfolio is a collection of past writing samples to impress potential clients. You don’t have to have published copywriting samples for your portfolio, but it’s preferable. The intention is to put examples of your work in a single location, making it easy for your dream client to fall in love with your writing style.

If you’re beginning your copywriting career, you likely don’t have a portfolio yet. Don’t let this put you off of the idea. Portfolios are like a CV for professional copywriters looking for work. Equally, if you’re already in a copywriting role and don’t have a portfolio, it’s time.

Do I need a portfolio as a copywriter?

Portfolios are valuable at any stage of your copywriting career. You might think portfolios are for those with reams of writing pieces, but they’re a vital tool for beginner writers. Freelance copywriting is a competitive career, and a portfolio distinguishes you from other newcomers in the copywriting world. 

Getting experience as a beginner copywriter is challenging. It takes time and effort to establish yourself in this demanding field. Potential clients also take a considerable risk by trusting someone with no copywriting history. A portfolio can cut the waiting time for your first paid gig in half.

Even if you’ve already secured a copywriting job, an impressive portfolio can prepare you for future job opportunities or the search for a new potential client. The online presence of a copywriting portfolio puts you ahead of the game if you’re already in a job. 

Why you should have a copywriter portfolio

Here are a few benefits of having a copywriting portfolio:

• It’s more engaging than a CV

• It allows businesses to approach you

• It shows your specialties

• It’s more personable and appealing

If you want to improve your chances in copywriting, a portfolio is the ultimate key.

What makes a good copywriting portfolio?

Before compiling your portfolio, picture your dream clients. Who do you want to read your portfolio? Having a speciality interest is one way to refine your target market. A great writing portfolio focused on a single industry will help you break into that field.

If you don’t have a niche, show some variation. Demonstrate a versatile writing style that you can apply to multiple mediums. No matter the subject, landing pages, blog posts, and long-form content are essential to excellent website copy.

Keep your copywriting portfolio neat. Include one or two examples of the different content types you offer. Don’t overfill your portfolio; it will look overwhelming, making it easy for recruiters to disregard.

What information should I include in a copywriting portfolio?

The focus of your portfolio is the writing samples. Prospective clients want to see your website copy. Anywhere from 5 to 10 copywriting samples displays your range and versatility as a copywriter and creates an impressive copywriting portfolio.

Beyond your writing, include your CV. This way, anyone intrigued by your writing can quickly learn about your education or work history.

If you want to add more personal touches to your portfolio, consider the following:

• A Picture of You: A picture makes you more approachable to prospective clients. Your photograph doesn’t have to be a professional headshot. A nice photo of you suitable for a professional audience is perfect.

• More About You: Most clients exploring your portfolio want to know more about you. In this section, talk briefly about your background. Mention any hobbies and interests you have. Remember to make it personal; this is your chance to show some character.

• Links to Your Socials: Letting clients get a look at your social media pages or any of your side projects makes you more memorable. Projects that show your creativity, like blogs or video creation, are perfect for linking here.

It sounds intimidating to those wanting to get into the copywriting business as a beginner freelance copywriter without experience. Thankfully, an impressive copywriting portfolio doesn’t have to be so difficult.

Let’s demystify the process.