If you’re looking for a way to boost your income or even transition into a full-time freelance career, copywriting could be your ticket. Here’s a detailed guide on how to start and grow a profitable copywriting side hustle.
Why Copywriting is a Great Side Hustle
Copywriting isn’t just another side gig; it’s a lucrative opportunity that’s more in demand than ever. Every business needs compelling copy to sell their products or services, and this demand is only increasing as more businesses move online. Whether it’s website content, email campaigns, product descriptions, or social media posts, the need for good copy is endless.
I started my copywriting journey when I was looking for ways to make money from my phone or laptop. Little did I know it would become one of my most profitable ventures. If you’re a wordsmith with a knack for persuasion, this could be your ticket to financial freedom.
The Benefits of Copywriting as a Side Hustle
Flexibility and Autonomy
Copywriting offers the flexibility to work on your own terms. You can write copy anytime, anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. This makes it an ideal side hustle for those who value freedom and flexibility. Whether you’re working a day job and looking for extra income or aiming to transition into full-time freelancing, copywriting fits the bill.
Scalability and Profitability
Some writing side hustles allow you to earn passive income, while others are service-based, where you trade your time for money. However, copywriting can be both scalable and highly profitable. For instance, sales copywriting can earn you five figures for a single sales page, especially if you have a track record of generating significant revenue for your clients.
Immediate Income Potential
Unlike some side hustles that require a significant time investment before you start earning, copywriting can generate income quickly. As soon as you land your first client, you can start making money. This immediate income potential makes it an attractive option for those looking to supplement their income quickly.
Getting Started with Copywriting
Learning the Basics
To get started with copywriting, you need to learn the basics. This includes understanding marketing principles such as psychology, audience targeting, and SEO. You should also familiarize yourself with different types of copywriting, such as sales pages, email campaigns, and social media posts.
Start by reading books and articles on copywriting. Websites like Copyblogger and Copyhackers are great resources to learn from. Additionally, online courses and coaching can help you hone your skills quickly.
Finding Your Niche
Finding a copywriting niche is crucial. It helps you stand out in the market and become an expert in your field. Consider your interests and skills. For example, if you have experience in healthcare, you might focus on writing medical content. Specializing in a niche can make you more attractive to clients and increase your earning potential.
Building Your Portfolio
A portfolio is essential for any copywriter. It showcases your skills and helps you get clients. Start by creating sample pieces of copy, even if it’s for imaginary companies. You can also volunteer to do copywriting for non-profits or friends’ businesses to build your portfolio. This free work can lead to referrals and paying gigs in the future.
Your portfolio should include a range of copywriting samples, from emails to online ads to magazine ads. This diversity will help you demonstrate your full range of skills to potential clients.
Setting Up Your Business
Setting up your copywriting side hustle involves choosing a business structure, creating a pricing model, and establishing professional systems for contracts and invoices. Most freelance copywriters operate as sole proprietors, which is the simplest structure for a one-person business. However, if you plan to scale or hire subcontractors, an LLC might be a better option.
When setting your rates, consider factors such as your experience, the type of copy you’re writing, and the value you bring to clients. Entry-level freelance copywriters can charge $15 to $30 per hour, while experienced copywriters can charge up to $100 per hour.
Types of Copywriting Gigs
Sponsored Blog Posts
Sponsored blog posts are a lucrative gig where a brand pays you to write a blog post on your blog. The average cost of a sponsored blog post can range from $250 to much higher, depending on the authority of your website and the value of your audience.
Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services on your blog and earning a commission from the sales. This can be a passive income stream if done correctly and can be very profitable over time.
Paid Brand Promotions
Partnering with brands for paid promotions can be highly lucrative. For example, travel bloggers can make between $4,000 and $20,000 per brand partnership. This type of gig requires you to promote the brand’s products or services and can be a one-time or ongoing arrangement.
Sales Page Copywriting
Sales pages are designed to drive online sales for a product or service. Great sales copywriters can charge five figures for a single sales page, especially if they have a track record of generating significant revenue for their clients. The key to charging premium rates lies in your skill level, track record, and the clients you work with.
Marketing Yourself
To be successful as a freelance copywriter, you need to market yourself effectively. Here are some strategies to help you land clients:
Online Presence
Create a strong web presence by setting up a website dedicated to your copywriting services. Use platforms like WordPress and Bluehost to host your site, and consider using a drag-and-drop builder like Elementor to make it look professional. Your website should include your portfolio, services offered, and contact information.
Networking
Reach out to your direct network to find potential clients. If you used to work in a specific industry, reach out to your old employer or contacts in that field. You can also join groups on LinkedIn and other social media networks to find potential clients or connect with other copywriters for advice and collaboration opportunities.
Job Boards
Use writing job boards like ProBlogger and Upwork to find freelance copywriting gigs. Make it a routine to check these boards daily and pitch for jobs that match your skills and interests.
Cold Emailing
Cold emailing can be an effective way to land clients. When emailing potential clients, explain how your copywriting skills can benefit their business. Create a small sample of ad copy or other type of copy to show your familiarity with the brand and your ability to deliver value.
Mastering Copywriting Techniques
To create compelling content that attracts and converts clients, you need to master several copywriting techniques:
Crafting Headlines
Headlines are crucial for grabbing attention and encouraging reader engagement. Focus on clarity, urgency, and benefits. Experiment with different formulas like questions, how-tos, and numbered lists. Remember, 80% of people will read your headline, but only 20% will continue to read the rest of your content.
Writing Persuasive Body Copy
Persuasive body copy should address reader pain points, offer solutions, and build credibility through examples or testimonials. Keep your writing concise and impactful, as web users generally read only 20% of the text on a webpage.
Tools and Resources
To help you in your copywriting journey, here are some tools and resources you can use:
Grammarly and Hemingway App
Tools like Grammarly and the Hemingway App can help with proofreading and improving the readability of your copy. Grammarly checks for grammar and spelling errors, while the Hemingway App simplifies your writing to make it more accessible.
CoSchedule’s Headline Analyzer
CoSchedule’s Headline Analyzer helps you create catchy headlines that convert. It analyzes your headline and provides feedback on how to improve it.
AI Tools
AI tools can also be a big help in your copywriting journey. For example, AI can assist with ideation and even draft copy. However, remember that AI is a tool, not a replacement for your human touch. Use AI to streamline your process but always add your personal touch to the content.
Real-Life Success Stories
There are many success stories out there of people who have turned their copywriting side hustles into full-time businesses. For instance, Chris Orzechowski, a freelancer from New Jersey, turned his copywriting side gig into a business and earned about $52,000 from copywriting in 2016, almost as much as his day job.
Another example is my own journey. I started copywriting as a side hustle and eventually turned it into a significant income stream. It’s helped me pay off my debt and even allowed me to quit my job and start hustles full-time.
Balancing Your Side Hustle with Your Full-Time Job
If you’re still working a day job, balancing it with your copywriting gig can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you manage:
Time Management
Set aside specific hours for copywriting and stick to them. This could be early in the morning, late at night, or during your lunch break. Consistency is key.
Skill Transfer
Interestingly, I’ve found that my copywriting side hustle has made me a better full-time employee. The skills I’ve developed, such as concise communication and understanding customer psychology, have proven invaluable in my day job.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
While starting a copywriting side hustle is exciting, there are some common pitfalls to avoid:
Undervaluing Your Work
Don’t undervalue your services. Charge what you’re worth based on your skills and the value you bring to clients.
Overcommitting and Burning Out
Make sure to manage your workload effectively. Don’t take on too many projects at once, as this can lead to burnout.
Neglecting to Update Your Skills
The copywriting landscape is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends and best practices to remain competitive.
Failing to Communicate Clearly with Clients
Clear communication is key to any successful client relationship. Ensure you understand the client’s needs and can deliver what they’re looking for.
The Future of Copywriting
The demand for good copywriters is only going to increase as businesses continue to move online. With the rise of AI and changing consumer behaviors, staying updated is crucial. Keep an eye on trends like voice search optimization and personalized content. These are areas where you can specialize and stand out in the market.
Final Thoughts
Copywriting as a side hustle is more than just a way to make extra money; it’s a skill that can transform your career and financial life. Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, transition into full-time freelancing, or simply learn new skills, copywriting offers a wealth of opportunities.
By following the steps outlined above, you can set yourself up for success in the world of copywriting. Remember to stay focused, keep learning, and always deliver high-quality work to your clients. With persistence and the right strategies, you can turn your words into cash and build a lucrative copywriting side hustle.