The time has come. My swimming trunks are on. I'm diving in to the ocean of the self-employed.
Over the past few years, I've toyed with the notion of becoming a freelance copywriter. I am passionate about writing and have a background in marketing and advertising, so why not, right?
Well, today officially marks the beginning of my entrepreneurial career.
To start I'll wet my toes. I am offering my services to small- to medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs like myself within the Kingston area. I have also decided to market myself to advertising agencies on a contract basis.
What type of copywriting do I specialize in? I'm glad you asked! I do writing for the following:
- Website content
- Newsletters/e-letters
- Marketing materials such as brochures and press releases
- Advertising copy (i.e. print ads or broadcast scripts)
- Tag lines/slogans
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Creative consulting for advertising and marketing campaigns
Time to Start Treading Water
How do I plan to stay afloat despite entrepreneurial uncertainty? With no shore in sight, I first must be willing to take the risk – I must be prepared to embark on an adventure in to the unknown.
Venturing through these cool depths can be scary indeed. Though the rewards for doing so can be just.
In order to quell the tides, I have developed a to-do list of sorts, a checklist to help me grow as a writer and increase the flow of creative juices.
Here is tentative list of things I intend to do to build my freelance confidence:
- Get Blogging – write blog posts more often and on a consistent basis. The saying may be a cliche but it's true none-the-less, “Practice Makes Perfect”
- Read & Write – then read and write some more! Ideas are everywhere, keep your eyes and mind open for them and always push your talents beyond your comfort zones
- Set Goals & Objectives – Create a roadmap of measurable results to help guide you through unfamiliar waters
- Think 'Big Picture' – Have a grand vision of what you wish to achieve longterm
- Continue to Grow – Be willing to accept others' advice and opinions. Creative Collaboration will always produce superior results than an individual effort
Being tentative, this list is something that I will always be updating and reconfiguring. If you have any ideas you think should be included, please send me your comments.
A Dingy Always Helps!
Those who believe they can surf the waves of entrepreneurship alone are fooling no one but themselves. Without a lifejacket you will drown in the murky waters of free enterprise. It is worth repeating, collaboration is mightier than a stand-alone.
So will you be my lifeline?
If you are in need of a copywriter, join me on LinkedIn to view my qualifications.
Perhaps you know somebody that would benefit from my services? Pass along my name.
I urge you to continue to read my blog and offer me your opinions, advice, and most importantly, your criticism. I promise to make my posts informative and entertaining – something worth reading. Your feedback will help me create a blog you truly enjoy and ensure that I continue to grow as a copywriter.
So what do you think, am I ready to take the plunge? Swimming lessons are always welcome, leave your comments below.
