Clever Copy Chats

Hello copy beasts, I have some good news and some sad news. This will be the last episode of the Clever Copy Chats podcast. Instead, I'm absorbing this podcast into one mega podcast. It's going to be called The Kate Toon  Show - it's all about how to create a successful, profitable and enjoyable business using smart, creative, simple digital marketing tactics. Whether it's creating passive income streams, juggling your real life with your business, or being a misfit.  I'm going to be passing on digital marketing tips, business advice, finance advice. Over time, you'll see all the episodes from this podcast being merged into the Kate Toon Show, historically. I'll also be talking about copywriting on that new show, because, you know, once a copy beast, always a copy beast. The new show gives me the freedom to talk about all manner of different things, and I'm really excited for it, so I hope you can come and listen to that.  Check out The Kate Toon Show. Freebies Free rates guide Join the Misfit Entrepreneurs Facebook Group   Useful links:  Join the Digital Marketing Collective Order my new book: Six Figures While You Sleep

Hello,  I just want to explain that we're going to be taking a little bit of a break on the podcast, probably about a month or so. This is sadly because I've had some bad news from home and I need to return to the UK and spend some time with my family. So I hope you can bear with me while I get through this difficult time. We will be back later in the year with more great episodes. Thanks for listening. I wish you all well. Thank you.   Freebies Free rates guide Join the Misfit Entrepreneurs Facebook Group   Useful links:  Join the Digital Marketing Collective

  In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills and improve your copywriting business.    Today I want to talk to you about honing in on your homepage. We spend a lot of time looking at other people's sites, but when was the last time you took a long hard Paddington bear stare at your home page?   Well, perhaps today is the day. Listen to all tip episodes here   Freebies Free rates guide Join the Misfit Entrepreneurs Facebook Group Useful links:  Sales Page course Join the Digital Marketing Collective

Welcome to another award winner's episode.   In these episodes, I'm talking to winners from the Clever Copywriting School Awards of 2022.   I'll be asking: What do they think made them stand out to win the awards? What advice and tips can they offer you? What are the challenges they've faced? And common mistakes they see their peers making.   Today we're chatting with our proofreading winner and our editing winner.   These are useful, practical and hopefully inspiring episodes from glorious yet humble writers.  I hope you enjoy it.   Tune in to learn:  What qualities make an award-winning editor What qualities make an award-winning proofer The main differences between editing and proofreading How to start off with structural editing How to tackle editing a book Why editorial guidelines can be helpful  What proofreaders should focus on Why Mary got involved with editing Why Tanja prefers proofing and editing over creative copywriting How to approach editing so the client doesn't feel overwhelmed Tanja and Mary's top recommended tools   Useful resources:  Grammarly Draftium Loom   Head to episode notes   Freebies Free rates guide

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills and improve your copywriting business.    Today I want to talk to you about my favourite copywriting formula.  PAS (Problem / Agitate / Solve)   Other useful formulas:  AIDA (Attention/Interest/Desire/Action) ACCA (Awareness/Comprehension/Conviction/Action) BAB (Before/After/Bridge) FAB (Features/Advantages/Benefits) CCCC (Clear/Concise/Credible/Compelling) AIDPPC (Attention/Interest/Description/Persuasion/Proof/Colours)   Listen to all tip episodes here.  Freebies Free rates guide  

Do you feel like a confident copywriter?   Unfortunately, I think part of being an empathetic, thoughtful writer is questioning everything, including ourselves and that can lead to self-doubt, imposter syndrome and comparisonitis.   So how do we overcome that?   Today I'm chatting with a copywriting coach who specialises in building confidence in yourself and your biz, and setting up productive business practices that will help lure in all those lovely leads.   Tune in to learn:  How Emma made her way from teaching to copywriting. What Emma's first steps were as a copywriter What a copywriting coach is Common problems small business owners have when writing their own copy What business owners should be focusing on in their marketing What Emma's pricing structure as a copywriting coach looks like How Emma deals with self-doubt Emma's favourite copywriting tool Emma's top copywriting tip for small business owners   Useful resources:  Hemingway Editor Google Docs   Head to episode notes    Freebies   Free rates guide

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills. Improve your copywriting business with straightforward doable advice that you can implement today.    Today, I want to talk about why copywriters should be more like fruit sellers when it comes to promoting themselves. Listen to all tip episodes here.  Freebies Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Ugh, content marketing, it just sounds so, well boring. And content, really? Does it actually generate sales or just contribute to the noise on the interwebs?   How do you create snappy content that woos the TOFUs, comforts the MOFUs and gets the BOFUs to reach for their credit cards?   Today's guest specialises in long-form content marketing, helping her clients connect with customers through personal stories, informative blogs and free advice.    Get ready to hear how you can woo and wow your client through the power of content marketing services. Tune in to learn:  How Jody moved from corporate marketing to copywriting How the US copywriting market compares to Australia How content writing differs from copywriting How long-form content writing fits into building brand awareness and making the sale Where long and short-form content works best How Jody incorporates AI as a tool in client projects How Jody packages and sells content marketing strategy to clients The biggest challenges Jody has faced as a copywriter and content writer Jody's top copywriting tools Jody's advice for new copywriters   Useful resources:  Grammarly NaturalReader   Head to episode notes  Freebies Free rates guide   Membership: Join now

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills and improve your copywriting business.    Today I want to talk to you about legal. I know it's boring, but it's super, super important. This is one that should be really front of mind, and it's all about getting your legals sorted. Listen to all tip episodes here. Useful Resources:  Copywriting Project Terms and Conditions Copywriter Legal Bundle Freebies Free rates guide Membership: Join now  

Okay we have a new podcast theme (well not that new, we've done a few episodes), it's called AWARD WINNERS, and in these episodes, I'm talking to winners from the Clever Copywriting School Awards of 2022. I'll be asking: What do they think made them stand out? What advice and tips can they offer you? What are the challenges they've faced? And common mistakes they see their peers making. Today we're chatting with our diversity winner and our new business winner. These are useful, practical and hopefully inspiring episodes from glorious yet humble writers.  I hope you enjoy them. Tune in to learn: Why Nicole won Best New Business of the Year 2022 Why Zoe Simmons won Diversity Champion of the Year 2022 The best way to build trust with your clients Why accessibility and inclusivity is so important  Nicole's number one tip to anyone starting a new business Zoe's number one tip for anyone looking to being more inclusive if your copywriting Challenges Zoe and Nicole have faced in their careers How Nicole and Zoe view the rise of AI and tools Useful resources: WordHippo Robot Love AI Summit Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills and improve your copywriting business.  Today I want to talk a little bit about how to brand differently by thinking outside the box. Let's talk about branding. One of the biggest mistakes I see with copywriters is the tendency to brand themselves in similar ways to other copywriters they've seen. While this is fine, it's very safe. If you want to stand out from the sameness, don't replicate what all the other copywriters are doing. Toon in to this episode for my advice. Freebies Free rates guide Membership: Join now  

Juggling copywriting and having a life is a struggle, right? And then there's the added pressure of making money, dealing with clients, worrying about ChatGPT and all that nasty imposter syndrome. Today I want to talk about what it's really like to be a copywriter. What does the average day look like? What are the ups? And the downs? Let's get real today, people, and dig into the challenges all copywriters face. Tune in to learn: How Kristy found her way from print media to copywriting How Kristy combines digital marketing into her services Why Kristy focused on conversion copywriting Why offering a suite of services can be beneficial to your copywriting business How Kristy faces mindset challenges How Kristy views generative AI tools and AI copywriting Kristy's favourite day-to-day copywriting tool Kristy's top tip for copywriters Useful resources: Robot Love AI Summit Grammarly Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills and improve your copywriting business.    Today I want you to stop asking ‘why me' and start asking ‘why not me?'   In the business world, especially when you're starting out, it can be oh-so easy to doubt yourself.   There are so many other copywriters out in the world; why would anyone pick you (or me)?   Perhaps you don't have any experience. No samples. You haven't done a fancy $5k US copywriting course. You haven't bought every single copywriting book.. Honestly, who cares?   Just as with love, in copywriting, there's someone for everyone.   Freebies Free rates guide   Membership: Join now

Us copywriters pride ourselves on being words people. But when it comes to figures, well some of us aren't so great.   And after all my years coaching copywriters, I've found it's not the copywriting side of things that causes businesses to fail, it's poor money management.   Fear about pricing. Poor cash flow management. Awkwardness about invoicing. And naked terror at tax time. All these issues can really drag a happy copywriter down. So today we're talking about mastering your money and getting some tips on how to feel fabulous about your finances.   Tune in to learn:  Why freelancers often struggle with the money side of business Mistakes copywriters often make when starting out How accounting tools can save you time and money How to start tracking your business finances regularly How to be prepared for tax time Why having the right accounting tools and team is crucial to your business growth Olly's top tips for transforming your business finances   Useful resources:  The Ultimate Freelancer Guide to Taxes   Head to episode notes    Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Batton down the hatches I know that many copywriters feel under attack at the moment. The cost of living crisis is biting hard, and it's getting harder to find and convert clients. ChatGPT seems to be threatening our very existence. And as the bank balance dwindles, as the confidence ebbs, it can cause us deep thinkers to spiral into negative thoughts. It can also lead us to make panicky decisions. Listen to this episode for a little perspective and confidence as we move forward. Freebies Free rates guide   Membership: Join now

VIP days are a relatively new thing in the copywriting world.  Back in the old days there was no such thing, I'm pretty much sure of it. But then someone, somewhere started banging on about VIP days and now everyone has jumped on this copywriting bandwagon. And I get it, they're a great way to overcome the eternal problem of projects dragging on for months and months and months. One day, done. Love it. But are VIP days all they're cracked up to be?  Does that idea of working live with your client for an entire day make you feel queasy? How on earth do you charge for that? What if the copy turns out crap? What if you don't have the mojo when the big day comes? Today we talk with our Member of the Year Cathy Camera, about her copywriting career and how VIP days perfectly suit her business model, her temperament, and her cash flow goals. We'll also talk about the types of clients VIP days suit as well as passing on some great tools, tips and advice for working copywriters. Tune in to learn:  Cathy's career path before becoming a copywriter How Cathy discovered her niche of construction copywriting Cathy's biggest copywriting career win Cathy's worst copywriting fail How Cathy has embraced VIP days and VIP packages How Cathy structures her VIP days How Cathy won Member of the Year in TCCS Cathy's top tool to improve communication with clients Cathy's top tip for current and up-and-coming copywriters Useful resources:  Loom Capability Statement Copywriting Template Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills and improve your copywriting business.    Today I want to talk to you about what to do when the inspiration well has run dry. Your brain is foggy. Writing feels like you're wading through sludge. The words just aren't coming. But the deadline looms and there are bills to pay.   So how do you push yourself to keep writing when the inspiration and creative spark have gone?   Tune in to hear my tips.    Freebies Free rates guide   Membership: Join now

So, you're a copywriter, but you don't live in a snazzy suburban area, with cool cafes and agencies aplenty. Instead, you're 8 hours from the nearest big city. How does being a regional copywriter impact your client list, your rates, and the number of meetings you have to attend? Our guest today is a 10-year Copybeast, with small humans and a big list of achievements. From her home offices, she's built a successful copywriting business that allows her to support her family, have a flexible lifestyle and even employ her lovely mum. So, if you want to know how to juggle all the things and have a fabulous, successful business wherever you are, this is the episode for you. Tune in to Learn: Sarah-Joy's career journey before becoming a copywriter The differences in working as a regional copywriter vs. working in a large city Sarah-Joy's biggest copywriting career win Sarah-Joy's biggest copywriting career fail Keeping it in the family: Why Sarah-Joy employs her mum, and why it works so well How giving birth to two humans has affected her business Sarah-Joy's number one favourite copywriting tool Sarah-Joy's tip for newbie copywriters Useful Resources: Grammarly Markup.io WordTune Sales Page Course Head to episode notes   Freebies: Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now    

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills and improve your copywriting business.    Today I want to talk to you about confidence and why it's the maker or breaker of your copywriting business.   I'll cover why you should:  Be kind to yourself. Realise you're not alone.  Set goals for yourself.  Work out strategies for tricky situations Practice talking to clients with friends (phone script) Use templates/ and email formats   Freebies Free rates guide   Membership: Join now

Okay we have a new podcast theme, it's called AWARD WINNERS, and in these episode I'm talking to winners from the Clever Copywriting school awards. I'll be asking: What do they think made them the stand out to win the awards. What advice and tips can they offer you? What are challenges they've faced? And common mistakes they see their peers making? These are useful, practical and hopefully inspiring episodes from glorious yet humble writers.  I hope you enjoy them. Okay we have a new podcast theme, it's called AWARD WINNERS, and in these episode I'm talking to winners from the Clever Copywriting school awards. I'll be asking: What do they think made them the stand out to win the awards. What advice and tips can they offer you? What are challenges they've faced? And common mistakes they see their peers making? These are useful, practical and hopefully inspiring episodes from glorious yet humble writers.  I hope you enjoy them.   Tune in to learn: What it takes to be a great content writer What it takes to be a great copywriter Common mistakes that copywriters make (and how you can avoid them) Clare and Caitlin's number one favourite copywriting tools Challenges that Clare and Caitlin have overcome in their careers How ChatGPT is going to change things  Clare and Caitlin's tips for copywriters new to the scene   Useful Resources: Asana Notion ChatGPT Wordtune Head to episode notes Blog   Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now  

In this, the first of my celebrity copywriter episodes, I could think of no one better to ask than the wonderful Justin Blackman.Because as well as having courses and resources on sale, he's still a working copywriter, indeed he's worked with some mega famous marketing types (some of whom even I have heard of). His superpower?Brand Ventriloquism, no this doesn't mean he pops his paw up the bottom of his client like puppets. Rather that he's mastered the skills of reviewing and replicating his clients voices, to ensure it's engaging, authentic and lures customers in like eager hedgehogs to a bucket of grubs. Today Justin will be sharing a little about his how copywriting journey, as well as sharing some Tone of Voice horror stories and best practice tips. So, if writing Tone of Voice and brand guides is on your list of to-dos, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn: How Justin became a copywriter Justin's biggest copywriting career highlight so far Career fails Justin has overcome along the way Three factors you need to consider when writing tone of voice guides Three major mistakes to avoid How far you should take your Tone of Voice guide How Justin takes care of his mental health Justin's favourite copywriting tool Top tip from the TOV-writing guru Useful resources: ProWritingAid Web Editor  Analyze my writing  Gender Analyzer - Text Analysis Tools  Verbatim voice tool (coming soon!) Tone of Voice (TOV) Copywriting Template Freebies: Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Taking on AI as an asset, not a threat Everyone is talking about ChatGPT. My LinkedIn is stuffed with experts providing tips and examples of how to use this amazing tool. (Everyone is an instant expert on LinkedIn). To some it's the best thing since sliced bread. To others, it's the end of the content marketing world as we know it. I mean, haven't these people watched The Terminator movies, don't they know how it all ends?   So today I'm going to give you my low down. ​​What is ChatGPT? What can it do? Why all the fuss? I'll take you through the challenges, the positives, what's coming, and also a bit of a reframe for those who are struggling or feeling scared about this new tool.   It's time to embrace the robots people. Let's get stuck in   Tune in to learn:  What ChatGPT is Why everyone is talking about ChatGPT Why your job isn't being taken by robots How to use AI tools as an asset The limitations in using ChatGPT What's coming down the line   Useful resources:  ChatGPT  WordTune Grammarly  Originality.AI WebChatGPT Chrome browser tool Frase   Head to episode notes    Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Us copywriters, ooh we love a good niche. And if we find one that aligns with something we genuinely love, even better. So imagine being a copywriter for artists, the ultimate creative combo of words and pictures.  But that said, if a picture paints a thousand words, who needs a copywriter? And artists aren't exactly known for their bulging bank accounts. So how do you make being an Arts copywriter work for you and your business? How do you turn that client contact blank canvas into a work of art? And how the heck do two highly creative humans work together without tears and spilled paint? Today's guest explains it all. Tune in to learn:  Why Ali decided to niche into Arts Copywriting What kinds of projects an Arts Copywriter works on What challenges come from working with artists How Ali finds copywriting clients Ali's biggest copywriting career win Ali's biggest career fail Ali and Kate's favourite copywriting tools How Ali balances the work-life balance and her top mental health tip Ali's top tip for newbie copywriters Useful resources: Trello Keywords Everywhere ChatGPT SEO Nibbles Head to episode notes   Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Why the ‘boring' social media platform is a copywriter's best friend LinkedIn; it gives most people the absolute heebie-jeebies.  It has a reputation for being the most boring social media platform, and so many of us hide on Facebook, on Instagram; anywhere, but having to show up on LinkedIn.    But the truth is, as a copywriter, it's probably a pretty good source of jobs.    So, how do we show up on LinkedIn, become a content creator, a content curator, and a content commenter, and actually have some fun and win some clients?  Today we're going to explain all that and more.   Tune in to learn: Beck's past jobs leading to copywriting How she settled into financial services and tech as her niche Why LinkedIn is so important for copywriters Beck's 3 top tips to getting more out of LinkedIn Beck's worst copywriting career fail Beck's number one favourite writing tool How she achieved copywriting success How she achieves a healthy work/life balance Beck's top copywriting tips Useful resources:  Grab her Ultimate Guide to Stand Out on LinkedIn  Read her blog on how Copywriters can get more clients on LinkedIn LinkedIn Marketing Solutions Copy tool: Word Hippo Head to episode notes   Freebies: Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills. Improve your copywriting business with straightforward doable advice that you can implement today.  Today I want to talk to you about trading FOMO for JOGI.  I've been digging into LinkedIn, and recently I got a question about FOMO and false scarcity.   “I'm currently writing up a LinkedIn post aimed at helping marketers discover better ways to use FOMO in their copywriting. Consumers are more educated than ever these days, and copy like this just isn't going to be believed anymore: ‘Sale ends soon!' - you said that last month. ‘Limited time offer' - limited to what? ‘Exclusive opportunity' - bull. I consider you one of the best copywriters in Australia and would love to hear your opinion on this. Maybe people should be more specific? Use more relatable language? I'm not really sure, but I'm no copywriter. So, I'm wondering, what tips would you give people looking to make their FOMO type of messaging stand out?”   Tune in for my thoughts on false scarcity, endless sales, and JOGI (the joy of getting in).  Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide   Membership: Join waitlist now

Let's be honest, being a copywriter can be just a little bit lonely.   Days spent with your computer and possibly a furry companion. You try to talk to your friends, your partner, and random strangers.  But who else really understands the deep pain of a client that won't use track changes? Or is willing to argue back and forth on the merits of semi-colons?   The answer? Other copywriters. But hey, aren't they your competition?   Our guest today has made an art of networking, a confirmed introvert who has not realised she's an extrovert.   She's going to give us some tips on how to make the most of events, communities and memberships; to bolster your confidence, find new clients and learn more about the wonderful world of copywriting.   Tune in to learn:  What Angela did before becoming a copywriter How being a diplomat influenced her copywriting How going to events has benefited Angela's career Memberships - how they can help you feel less lonely as a freelancer Angela's networking tips for other nervous, quiet copywriters Angela's favourite copywriting tool Angela's top copywriting tip Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills. Improve your copywriting business with straightforward doable advice that you can implement today.    Have you ever struggled to get a client to fill out your brief? You send it off and they come back with daft answers.   Who is your ideal client: “Anyone with a pulse and a credit card.”   What is your desired objective: ‘That people buy stuff.”   What keywords to you want to rank for: ”I'd like to rank for cheese.”   Today I want to talk all about how I manage these clients, get the briefs to a usable stage, and fill in those blanks.   Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join waitlist now

When you Google ‘copywriter', you might notice one thing. There are a lot of us.   And if you check out most copywriter websites, they're very similar. And the socials? We're all posting Ernest Hemingway quotes, sharing advice on how to use colons and popping up pictures of our dogs.   So how do you stand out in a crowded market? How do you become known for what you do? Build that solid trustworthy reputation and become the go-to human in your niche?   Well, our guest today is not only a successful copywriter but a PR guru and my personal guide to becoming more known.    Using a smart combination of award entries, PR, blog posting, podcasts and more, she helps people just like us, raise their profile and in turn win more customers and charge more money.   Tune in to learn:  Erin's career journey before becoming a copywriter How the worlds of copywriting and PR crossover How to overcome shyness and getting yourself out there Award writing and entering awards - is it worth it? How to handle client's expectations How Erin raised her profile The biggest mistakes copywriters make when trying to raise their profiles Erin's top copywriting tip   Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

So I've decided to launch a new stream to the Clever Copy Chats pod. We have Tips and Chats and 101 episodes, and now I'm adding newbies. These are chats with people who are brand new to copywriting. I want to chat about their challenges, their fears and what's holding them back. I want to dig into their goals and ambitions. And I want to hopefully give them a little useful advice on the podcast.   Because it's all very well hearing from established copywriters, with a client list as long as their thigh, processes up the wazoo and their pricing en point. But perhaps you, like today's guest, are just starting and need a firm pat on the bottom or a shoulder to weep on. Well, that's what the newbie episodes are all about. Tune in to learn:  Vishma's career path up to now Why Vishma took the leap and chose copywriting The biggest challenges Vishma has faced so far, and how she overcame them Positives to launching her new career Vishma's top tip for new copywriters Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills. Improve your copywriting business with straightforward doable advice that you can implement today.    Today, I want to talk about why old is not a selling point.   As part of my Recipe for SEO success course, I do a lot of Unique Selling Proposition reviews. And for those of you who don't know what a USP is, it's a short statement that summarises: Who you are What you do Who you do it for And why you do it better than anyone else.   And time after time I see phrasing in these USPs that relates to age.   As in the age of the business. Examples include: Over 60 years ago  Combined experience of 72 years Since 1996 Established in 1842   Yuck! And I get it. AGE feels like it should be a positive. Being the original surely counts for something right? The pioneer? Having experience surely counts for something right? You've been there, done that, not like these young upstarts.   But in a world that is obsessed with Newness, I'm just not sure Oldness cuts it anymore.   Let's break them down.   Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join waitlist now

We recently ran a poll in the Clever Copywriting Community to see how long people could write for each day.The average?  Four hours.Not due to lack of time, but due to running out of creative energy. So imagine if after you've burned the copy candle to a stump, you had a second candle to light.Imagine if you had a hybrid business that was part copywriting and part something else.Our guest today has successfully married her yin and yang, combining a purrfect copywriting business with an equally fluffy WordPress business.She explains the pros (and relatively few cons) of this approach and how it enables her to squeeze more out of her day and give clients a more seamless stress-free experience. Tune in to learn: What Rachel did before she settled on copywriting How Rachel thought to combine her web developing and copywriting skills together The benefits of utilising different skills Rachel's biggest freelancer fail Rachel's biggest win so far Rachel's top five tools Her top tips for anyone wanting to do more than just copywriting Useful resources: Dubsado CRM To the Web Google Title & Meta description pixel length Hemingway App SEMrush Berrycast WordPress SEO course Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

In these short snappy episodes, I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to hone your copywriting skills. Improve your copywriting business with straightforward doable advice that you can implement today.    Today's tip is all about proposals.    A member of the Clever Copywriting community recently asked: “How do I actually get a proposal over the line?  I've had some great leads and enquiries over the past months; some have ghosted me before the proposal stage and the rest haven't jumped at the signing of my proposals I have sent. I had a good lead contact me yesterday asking for work, we had a chat on the phone, and I said I'd send my packages/proposal.” I'll go through step by step how to set up a stellar proposal every time.   Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Useful links:  Recommended Rates Guide Rate Card Template  WIP Tracker Copywriting Proposal Template Copywriter Email Templates Pack Copy Shop Membership: Join waitlist now

Have you always dreamt of seeing your name in print?Of picking up the Sunday papers and reading your own article as you drink your morning coffee?Well our guest today, Rashida Tayabali, has done just that. She's a successful copywriter, author and has been featured in more magazines than you could shake a stick at. She talks with us today about why she chose not to niche down, how she balances life and writing, and gives us a detailed explanation of how to pitch and price your feature articles.Toon in today to learn how having a great idea is one thing, but sticking with it until the end is the real challenge. Tune in to learn:  Rashida's journey to being a copywriter Why Rashida doesn't niche Does feature writing pay more than copywriting How to come up with feature article ideas How to pitch your idea to the editor How to find the right person to pitch to Why you shouldn't pitch your idea to multiple editors How to price your article How feature articles differ from blogs Rashida's book and why she wrote it How Rashida manages the balance Her number one tip for copywriters Useful resources:  Google docs   Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

I know that for many copywriters taking and making calls to prospective clients gives them the absolute heebeejeebees. But it's really a trial we have to get over. Something that we have to build our confidence doing, and I promise you, it gets much easier. So here are my top tips on how to wow clients on the first call. Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Useful links:  Recommended Rates Guide Rate Card Template  WIP Tracker Copy Shop Membership: Join now

If you've just started out as a copywriter, it can be intimidating.Dang, even after a few years you're still looking around thinking ‘why is this working for everyone else but not me?'.You need to polish your processes and pricing, raise your profile and work out how to really put yourself out there. But good things take time. Like a lump of coal turning into a sparkly diamond, sometimes they also take a little pressure.Today, specialist tender writer Estelle Fallon talks about her journey towards finding her true copywriting self, building her confidence and giving herself time to embrace her skill set. Tune in to learn:  How Estelle got started in copywriting What tender writing is Why managing people is so important How Estelle prices her tenders How Estelle deals with the pressure How she's managed to be patient with her business Estelle's number one tip for copywriters Why Estelle believes it takes time to form a great copywriter Useful resources:  Capability Statement Copywriting Template   Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

In this episode, I want to help you learn how to write more credible copy. We all know how important, knowing, liking and trusting a brand or individual is when it comes to selling. But how do we build the trust factor in our copy?   Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide   Membership: Join now  

Some of us feel like freshly minted copywriters.Just plopped out into the world and finding our copywriting feet like doddery gazelle babies. Others are wise old sages, with years of like experience. Today I'm talking to one of those - Clever Copywriting School Ambassador, Copy Cop and Copy Gandalf Gary Cooper. After working in every career under the sun, he fell into copywriting as many do, and was able to use his previous experience to help him spot red flags, not sweat the small stuff, and work on projects that fit his lifestyle. Today he's going to share how he's made a killing on Upwork, found a tool that helps him write well despite being dyslexic, and find a career that fits in around his busy life renovating a house in France. Still curious, still willing to learn, Gary is an amazing member of my community and I  think you can probably tell, I kinda want to be Gary when I grow up.   Tune in to learn:  How Gary got started in copywriting How Gary has used Upwork to build an amazing client list His favourite client and why His worst failure and what he learned Gary's life-changing copywriting tool Gary's number one tip for winning new clients (it's a doozy) Gary's advice on how to keep pushing through And a wrap up of some of Gary and Kate's favourite copy tips. Useful resources:  Dragon Naturally Speaking Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Today I want to talk to you about how to find copywriting jobs without traditional marketing. Post on FB that you're now a copywriter Update your LinkedIn profile Email old colleagues and clients Get business cards printed Join a community with a job board Join freelancer websites Subcontract for more experienced copywriters Contact agencies Fluff brands you love   Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide   Membership: Join now    

Niching, it's a word that sends shivers down the spines of many a copywriter. Won't I get bored writing about the same thing all the time?How will I handle client conflicts?Will I have to turn down clients who aren't in my niche?Today's guest Nerissa Bentley has built a hugely successful business by narrowing her focus to health. She's taken on big brands and bigger budgets, honed her marketing, and polished her processes so now the majority of her work is either retainer, repeat or referral (the dream).But as well as that she's worked hard on her own physical and mental health to find balance and get to the deep-rooted issues that were holding her back. Tune in today to find out how becoming a specialist has helped Nerissa build a business she loves on her own terms. Tune in to learn:  What was Nerissa's journey to being a copywriter Why did Nerissa decide to niche The positives of niching Dealing with getting bored Dealing with client conflicts The financial benefits of being a niched copywriter Nerissa's two biggest copywriting wins The importance of getting to the source of your business challenge Nerissa's favourite copywriting tool Which book would Nerissa take to a deserted island (clue: It's not the ARPHA guidelines) Useful Resources:  Hemingway App Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

I want to talk about why a lot of the copywriting I see coming from copywriters really suck. I'm sorry! Why concepts matter, and big ideas matter! Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Do you loathe marketing? Putting yourself out there? Performing like some kind of happy copy chimp to lure clients in. Believe me, I know how exhausting it can be. Our guest today, Lisa Cropman, has taken a different path. Instead of trying to market to many, she woos her clients one by one. Building close relationships, setting up contras, forming partnerships, and then spending her precious marketing time, nurturing those relationships. It's allowed her to create a steady flow of clients and enabled her to home in our clients she genuinely wants to work with. She also takes Friday off every week and makes time for regular dog walks. Toon in to find out how Lisa has created a good business working with good people, and pretty much managed to avoid marketing altogether!   Tune in to learn: How Lisa markets herself How Lisa started as a copywriter Lisa's biggest copy win and flop Lisa's biggest relationship win Advice about contras Lisa's work-life balance tips Lisa's number one copy tip Lisa's number one copy tool? Why Lisa wants to live up a tree Useful Resources WordHippo Toggl Rounded TCCS template bundles Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now  

In this episode, I want to give you a little tough love. On the one hand, you're not making enough money to feel successful. To feel like you're not always scrambling for the next job. To end the feast and famine. But you also know you're not charging enough, offering discounts, giving away time for amends and chats. It has to stop. Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Some writers write as a hobby. Some to bring in some extra, but not essential income. But how does being the breadwinner change all that? When your copywriting income is the sole or main income to support your family, how does that impact the decisions you make about pricing, clients, niching, and the day-to-day? Today we talk with established B2B copywriter, Amanda Vanelderen, about how she's narrowed her focus but expanded her confidence. Tackling big brands with big budgets and barely flinching. She tells us how her human-first approach to clients has to lead to a comfortable flow of return business and how she maintains a business approach while still wearing Lion King pyjama pants.   Tune in to learn: Amanda's copywriting journey How she found her niche How being a breadwinner has changed her approach to business Amanda's top pricing and how to be a $250-an-hour copywriter Amanda's biggest business fail Amanda's tip for established copywriters What Amanda wears to write copy   Useful Resources Reddit Glassdoor   Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now  

Copy Tip Time: In these short snappy episodes I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to Hone your copywriting skills Improve your copywriting business Straightforward doable advice that you can implement today. Today I want to talk about: Adding the razzle dazzle to your copy. Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Are you a people pleaser?Do you struggle with boundaries? Do you give give give until you have nothing left?Today we're talking about boundaries, not just in client relationships but in the work you do for clients.Our guest today Joh, is an SEO keyword research expert, and could so easily slip down the rabbit hole, spending hours on research so she's learned to place boundaries on her services. She's also learning how to place boundaries on the number of clients she works with, and she has a plethora of amazing copywriting tools and some smart mental health tips to share.  I think you'll find this podcast a refreshing take on what it means to be a working copywriter, the challenges, the wins and how collaboration really is the key. Tune in to learn: Joh's path towards being a copywriter How she chose her niche, or how it chose her Her biggest copywriting win Her lowest career moment How she onboards her clients Joh's favourite copywriting tools Joh's top advice on dealing with mental health struggles. Joh's number one tip for newbie copywriters Useful Resources Draftium KWFinder (Mangools) Loom Berrycast Dubb Grammarly  Good old Word Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Copy Tip Time: In these short snappy episodes I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to Hone your copywriting skills Improve your copywriting business Straightforward doable advice that you can implement today. Today I want to talk about: Let the client see your quirks

Whenever I'm in a copywriting group I see the same comments. “SEO ruins conversational copy.” “SEO ruins conversion copy.” “You don't need to use keywords any more. Google will work it out.” “SEO copy is boring copy.” (Heavy sigh) These kinds of comments show a fundamental misunderstanding of what SEO copywriting is and how it works. And these copywriters who think that Google will magically work out where to rank you no matter what you write on the page, well they're either naïve or just plain lazy. If anything great SEO copywriting is even more important now than it's ever been. So in this podcast, I'm going to get back to basics and give you an overview of the important elements in SEO Copywriting, and a few tips on how to please humans and Google too. Tune in to learn: What is SEO Copywriting and how does it differ SEO content writing The CGF way to understand your customers Why the marketing funnel and searcher intent matters How to choose keywords How to set up your structure How long should SEO copy be? Why does readablity matter? Beyond copy: Layout and links My SEO copywriting process Important measurement metrics Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Copy Tip Time: In these short snappy episodes I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to Hone your copywriting skills Improve your copywriting business Straightforward doable advice that you can implement today. Today I want to talk about: Writing skeleton drafts.

What are your copywriting ambitions? Do you dream of running an agency?Working with big brand clients, with lush, juicy budgets?Being able to hire your dream time of bright minds?Today's guest Sarah Spence has done it all. While making two humans and dealing with a clutch of mental health challenges.She's an amazingly smart cookie who's scaled a remote team and taken on the kinds of projects that would keep me up at night/And she's not scared to admit that sometimes they keep her up at night too.Toon in to find out how Sarah realise the world would wait for her to find her copywriting feet, and how when she did, she began sprinting to success. Tune in to learn: Sarah's copywriting journey Her biggest win and worst fail Her favourite copywriting tool How she manages her team Her view on content marketing: Pillars Clusters Waterfalls How she deals with imposter syndrome and self doubt Her tips for newbie copywriters Useful Resources Asana Vegetable quiz Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now

Copy Tip Time: In these short snappy episodes I want to give you smart little Toon tips on how to Hone your copywriting skills Improve your copywriting business Straightforward doable advice that you can implement today. Today I want to talk about: Writing tighter copy

Large projects give me the heebeejeebees.Working with government agencies leaves me cold.And managing a huge team of sub contractors, ick! And doing all that with ADHD, that's got to be challenging right?Well yes and no.Matt Fenwick has taken his recent diagnosis of ADHD and sought the positive, using it to realise his big picture strengths and the gaps in his knowledge. He's also worked on his mindset and learned how to switch off the voice of doubt, to focus on the work and push forward with large-scale projects.Today we'll learn how Matt manages to work with subcontractors, master huge projects and find an escape when he needs it. Tune in to learn: Matt's copywriting journey His biggest win and worst fail Why he's not threatened by AI His favourite copywriting tool How he manages self-doubt His tips for copywriters Useful Resources Miro Hemingway app Head to episode notes Freebies Free webinar: Your first month as a copywriter Free rates guide Membership: Join now