What is Copywriting Side Hustle?
In the context of copywriting, a side hustle refers to engaging in copywriting work as an additional source of extra cash income outside of your primary job or main copywriting gig. It involves taking on freelance or part-time copywriting projects alongside your regular employment or primary client work.
A side hustle in copywriting allows you to leverage your writing skills, creativity, and knowledge of persuasive communication to earn extra income and gain more experience in the field. Additionally, it involves working with various clients, industries, and types of copywriting projects.
Here are a few examples of side hustles in copywriting:
- Freelance Copywriting: Taking on freelance copywriting projects on a part-time basis can be rewarding. Specifically, this could involve writing website copy, blog posts, social media content, email campaigns, product descriptions, or any other form of copywriting, all catered to clients who require your expertise and assistance.
- Content Writing: Creating content as a side hustle, which could include writing articles, blog posts, whitepapers, ebooks, or creating educational content for businesses or online platforms.
- Copyediting and Proofreading: Offering copyediting and proofreading services on a freelance basis. This involves reviewing and improving existing copy for clients and checking for grammar, spelling, style, and consistency.
- Copywriting for Small Businesses: Assisting small businesses with their copywriting needs, such as writing marketing materials, sales letters, brochures, or creating compelling product descriptions.
- Personal Branding and Resume Writing: Helping individuals develop their personal brand by crafting impactful LinkedIn profiles, resumes, cover letters, or professional biographies.
Copywriting side hustle can lead to a successful career or full-time self-employment.
How to Do Copywriting Business as a Side Hustle?
Starting copywriting as a side hustle is a rewarding way to earn extra income while leveraging your writing skills. Here are some steps to help you get started:
- Develop your copywriting skills: Familiarize yourself with the principles of effective copywriting. For example, read books, take online courses, and study successful copywriting examples to understand the techniques and strategies used in persuasive writing.
- Build a portfolio: Start creating a portfolio of your work to showcase your writing abilities. This includes mock projects, spec work, or even offering your services at a discounted rate to gain real client examples. Consequently, a portfolio helps potential clients assess your skills and style.
- Set your rates: Determine how much you will charge for your copywriting services. Research industry rates and consider factors like your experience, niche expertise, and the scope of the project.
- Create a professional online presence: Establish a professional website or online portfolio to showcase your services, portfolio, and contact information.
- Network and market yourself: Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with others in the field. Additionally, engage in online copywriting communities, contribute to relevant forums, and participate in social media discussions to build your network and gain exposure.
- Start pitching and prospecting: Reach out to potential clients who may benefit from your copywriting services. Research businesses or individuals within your niche and personalize your pitches to highlight how your services address their specific needs or challenges. Thus, be proactive in seeking opportunities.
- Deliver exceptional work and provide excellent customer service: When you land your first clients, deliver high-quality copy that meets or exceeds their expectations. Communicate effectively, meet deadlines, and be open to feedback. Satisfied clients become valuable referrals and provide testimonials for future marketing efforts.
Who Hires Copywriters and What Do They Do?
Business owners usually open copywriting jobs as freelance writing to increase their SEO (search engine optimization). Such writing jobs are usually great side hustle jobs rather than full-time jobs for content writers to earn some extra money, and it is also economical, especially for startups.
As a freelance writer, you should be reliable. The hiring company may require your copywriting portfolio to see your previous works or ask you to solve some case studies before hiring. Some companies even require you to take a copywriting course beforehand.
Copywriting clients also usually require social media posts to improve their social media platforms. Additionally, copywriters produce content for landing pages and sales pages alongside email marketing content.
