Website Copywriting
Copywriting is the activity of writing the words; phrases and sentences that describe a person, opinion, business, technological process or idea in order to effectively communicate these to others.
The main purpose of setting down this marketing copy or promotional verbiage is to fulfill the user’s need for text in ads, publicity, sales promotion, collateral materials such as brochures, radio or TV scripts, website pages, Internet blogs and feature articles. For example, a copywriter is preparing this article.
Most copywriting is done by independent contractors
Copywriters have almost always worked for businesses or the advertising/PR agencies that represent them. Today, the Internet creates a very-significant market for freelance talent and especially for copywriters who are well versed in preparing text for use in websites and website promotional materials such as blogs, Ezine articles, etc.
Connect on websites for freelancers and buyers
Outsource buyers of copywriting services and freelance writers (providers), generally connect on a website that serves freelance needs. Here, the buyers post copywriting projects and accept bids to stated specifications and deadlines, and then select a provider from all the bidders on the project.
Copywriting requires a specific expertise plus attention to details
Copywriting is clearly not a job for everyone, which is one good reason why there are so many opportunities for freelance copywriters on the Internet today. Here are ten factors that apply to good copywriting:
1. A good command of the language in which you will be writing, English is the most common language used.
2. An Excellent grasp of spelling and grammar.
3. A good focus and attention to details.
4. An ability to understand project specifications and deadlines.
5. For website copywriting, be familiar with Search Engine Optimization, Keywords, keyword phrases and the way search engines like Google, Yahoo! and AOL rank websites in their huge directories.
6. A willingness to never accept a project if you can’t deliver a quality job in the time frame required.
7. Never plagiarize. Copy submitted to buyers is almost always subjected to Copyscape Premium and other services that detect plagiarism.
8. Be capable of researching assigned topics on the web and using the material you find as reference material only. Outsource buyers will not accept cut and paste text from previously published materials.
9. Understand that copywriting that you do becomes the exclusive property of the buyer. Never use it for yourself, even as a sample, without the expressed permission of the buyer you prepared it for.
10. If you are the buyer of copywriting services, always pay the agreed- upon rate as promptly as possible once you have accepted the work.
Always remember that copywriting is a profession and perform accordingly. The only way to earn the respect of outsource buyers is to provide them with a quality job on time, every time. If you do this, you can expect to make a reasonable amount of money all the time. Buyers of course realize that emergencies come up and things occur that are beyond your control. However, if this does happen, always give your buyer as much notice as possible for any delay so that he won’t be embarrassed with his client or supervisor.
