So I spent this afternoon taking some business cards around to some local stores that I love dearly. I figured I’d drum up some business while having an excuse to eat delicious soup on a cold day, look at pretty clothing, etc. And doing it, I had the weirdest repeated experience. I’d take my card in, and start the usual speech, “Hi, I’m Holly, I’m a copywriter for small businesses like yours…”. These people looked at me like I’d grown two heads. This look was then followed by, “So uh…a copywriter does what?”
This issue had never actually occurred to me before (and trust me, when you’re trying to give a sales pitch is not when you want this realization to occur), and it threw me. So I thought I’d write a post on what a copywriter does, and why they are useful, even if you’re poor and think you don’t need one.
Copywriters are writers who want to help you market your business, in the most basic sense. They can write website content, direct mail, email promotional stuff, etc. Basically anything that makes you or your business look better. Ideally, a copywriter should not only have some serious writing skills, but should understand your business and your needs. Yes, they do marketing, but they aren’t used car salesmen marketing types; they just want to give your business the little nudge in the right direction.
“But I’m a poor clothing/soap/organic green tea dog treat maker!”, you say, “I can’t afford copywriting! I already sell on Etsy, Soopsee, and everywhere else!” The answer is yes, you do, but you can always make more sales. Is the text on your website optimized to draw in a certain kind of customer? Are your header tags arranged so search engines see the keywords that you want them to see? Many small businesses just need one quick session with a copywriter to generate a whole new level of sales. For most copywriters, this isn’t a really expensive prospect. $50 or $100 can be a small investment for your business that really pays off over time, and won’t break your bank. If you’re worried, ask for a free consult and see if you think that it’s worth your time and money. But don’t assume that you don’t need a copywriter, or can’t afford one.
P.S. I’ve realized that organic dog treats has come up twice on this site now, and I would like to chalk it up to the presence of my small needy spaniel harassing me whenever I work. It’s in my subconscious now. That said, if you do sell organic dog treats, I could really work with you, so don’t be put off!
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