What exactly is copywriting or ‘content creation’?
‘Copy’ is the printed words that make up a page or paragraph of text and so ‘copywriting’ is the art of supplying these words. It’s just words – used in the right place, in the right order.
Anyone can write, right?
I’m sometimes told anyone can write. All you need is a laptop. Why should I pay for a copywriter? In the not too distant past, businesses wanting websites built got a designer to do all sorts of clever snazzy stuff – all bells and whistles – and then when things went a bit over budget, decided to write the content themselves.
My friends have granite topped worktops in their kitchens, are avid cookery programme watchers and have a library’s worth of cook books, but it doesn’t mean they are good cooks. Only a few people can write well. I’d like to think I’m one of them.
Writing for the web or web content creation
If the copy is for the web, it needs to get the reader there in the first place (compelling, succinct copy, solid SEO) and hopefully keep them there (low bounce rate). I’m a trained journalist with a demonstrable track record of delivering results. I’m SEO certified and a keen user of social media, all good news if you are looking for a copywriter.
What can a copywriter do?
A copywriter is good with words and will craft them cleverly to get your message across, whatever it is. Shiny, sparkling, succinct copy is what today’s world demands. There are a lot of words out there: I will make sure yours count. Travel, food and lifestyle are my strengths but I’m happy to write about most topics. If you want a wealth of rich life experience to draw on and someone who is reliable, do get in touch.
Examples of what I do (not an exhaustive list):
- Website copy – natural copy with strong SEO awareness
- Article writing – print or online
- Content design using Agile method (focusing on user need)
- Rewrite website copy
- Brochure copy – print or online
- Product information
- Facebook Pages
- Social Media overview
Seriously poor websites
There are some terrible websites out there: hotel websites with hard to find contact details; useless images that tell you nothing; restaurant websites with no menus; websites with sound and flash images; websites where you have to drill down to find basic information. Old-fashioned websites either focus on how clever the designer is or want to tell the world about their wonderful product/service with little regard for the end user. Your potential clients or customers are busy.
If your website doesn’t do the job and quickly, your client will go elsewhere. It takes less than 10 seconds for someone to decide whether to stay on your website.
Why not let me help you?
Who have you worked for?
I have worked for St James Publishing House on several of their large celebration volumes and did a great deal of the copy for the Bespoke India website, drawing on my extensive experience of visiting the country. I also wrote travel copy for Princes Cruises. More recently, I did a 10,000 word project for Travel2 for a cruise brochure and have just completed a piece of work for for a Middle Eastern tourist board. I’m presently blogging for a software company and a food provider. I’m happy to supply work examples. I’m a member of the Professional Copywriters’ Network.
How much will it cost?
I normally charge a day rate for projects with a small reduction for some charities or non profit organisations. I currently have a minimum charge of £150 per assignment or a half-day rate. I quote a day rate for an assignment that is going to take more than seven hours’ work. Price depends on complexity of the work and number of revisions. VAT will be added to all invoices. Terms are 30 days. New clients are normally required to provide 50% of the fee upfront.
Brief, work schedule and payment
A full brief and contract, together with payment schedule if applicable (usually for larger jobs), will be agreed by both parties before work starts.
How much notice do you need?
Although I have a network of talented people I can call on for some help, I’m a one-person business and don’t sub-contract my work, so there may be times when I have to turn assignments down. If you think you might need me, I suggest you don’t wait until it is urgent.
What am I like to work with?
I’m friendly and efficient and won’t take on extra work when I’m too busy to give it my full attention. I always meet my deadlines. I depend on my good reputation for more work. Please read the testimonials on my ‘about’ page or on LinkedIn from satisfied clients.
How do I contact you?
Please send a short email and I’ll arrange to discuss the work over the phone at a mutual time to suit or we can do it all by email. If it’s a big job that needs a face to face, I’m happy to meet in London or within easy reach. I look forward to hearing from you.
Email: olivia at oliviagreenway dotcom