Lessons from Nicki's new freelance client (Episode 251)

You may have heard me say that I only verrrrrry occasionally take on freelance clients. (Supporting students in the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy is my #1 job!) So, when I tell you this one was too good to pass up you know it’s goooood. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, I’m telling you all about it. And I’ll be honest: even after 20+ years in copywriting, I still felt those new-client nerves creep in. New people (including working with an on-staff copywriter!), new systems, new brand voice…the nerves are natural. That’s why I wanted to take you behind-the-scenes. From copy test (YUP!) to onboarding to the little ways I make sure I’m showing up at my best, I’m sharing it all. If you’re on the path to landing your first client or you’ve just landed your so-many-clients-you’ve-lost-count client, I think you’ll find this one especially valuable. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode How To Set Up Your Schedule When Working from HomeEp. 56: What is a Copywriting Test and Should You Do One?How to Make Time for Freelance Work Related Links Land Copywriting Clients With These 35 Tips --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here 

Imagine juggling full-time teaching, full-time parenting, and a five-year-long divorce. Exhausting doesn’t even begin to cover it.  That was Vikki’s reality until she realized one thing: no one was coming to change her life for her. If she wanted something different, she’d have to create it. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Vikki was suuuuper generous with sharing her story and how she went from burnout to building an entire new career. Vikki has not only doubled her income, she’s also working less hours. Normally I’d totally get if you were like, “Nicki, spoiler alert!” But the magic is in the way she got to this point. Vikki is sharing all her best tips (Kate and I walked away with some new ones!), including how she kept moving forward, even when the big picture felt overwhelming. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode Victoria Burton Copywriting LinkedInEarning More As a Freelancer than On Staff – Catching Up With StuartAston UniversityHow to Elevate Your Profile & Land Copywriting Clients on LinkedIn Related Links Teacher Burnout, Guilt, and Getting Into a New ProfessionThis Teacher Now Leads a Team of Copywriters – Catching Up with Charlotte --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

If the thought of “showing up on social” makes you want to toss your phone out the window … you’re not alone. Here’s the truth: social media can help you grow your copywriting business—but not in the way most people think. (And if you’re OVER social media, then skip this episode. You DO NOT have to be on social media to have a thriving business, no matter what you may hear from the social-media loving “gurus.”) On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are talking exactly how to:  ✅ Use social strategically (instead of endlessly scrolling) ✅ Pick the right platform for your clients (and ignore the rest) ✅ Post without feeling like you’re shouting into the void ✅ Build trust and relationships—without pitching strangers in the DMs Whether you love social or hate it, you’ll walk away with a clear, realistic plan for making it work for you (not the other way around). ----------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 239: Do Copywriters Need a Personal Brand?5 Keys for Getting Valuable Connections on LinkedInUse Copywriting Networking to Help Land More Clients Related Links Ep. 173: How to Elevate Your Profile & Land Copywriting Clients on LinkedInWho You’re Not Following on Social Media (But Should Be)Ep. 103: Becoming a Social Media Copywriter & Manager—Carli’s Story ----------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

I have been just as burned out as the next person. Before I became a copywriter, I was working at a health club, but my mental health was at its lowest.  So, I related so deeply to Martin. Martin spent 15 (!!!) years as a police officer. To say he was burned out is an understatement. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, he’s sharing the moment he realized he needed his life—and his mental health—back.  Of course, like ALL of us, he had doubts.  His? “Am I too old to become a copywriter at 40?” Now, as someone well into her 40s, I’m going to let the use of “old” slide here. Because I get it.  A career change that far along? When you’ve spent your entire life devoted to another profession? But if you relate to any of that, I’d encourage you to listen to Martin’s story. Not only is he landing clients and creating an entire new career for himself, he’s doing it without pitching (but leading with value? you bet 😉).  He’s proof you don’t need a marketing degree or a “perfect background” to make it happen. You just need to start. ------------- Mentioned in the Episode Martin website: onpointcopywriting.ukFind Copywriting Clients on Facebook: 3 Tips and 1 Big Warning Related Links 5 Networking Steps to Take This Month8 Tips for Networking SuccessUse Copywriting Networking to Help Land More Clients --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

You’ve probably heard Mel Robbins’ “Let Them” theory by now. (If not, pick up a copy or get on your library’s waitlist—trust us, there’s a waitlist for good reason!) Let them underestimate you. Let them judge. Let them do their thing. It’s a powerful mindset shift—but it’s only the beginning. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are giving our take on the book (5 out of 5 stars!), but, more importantly, breaking down why stopping at “let them” could keep you stuck. If you’ve been spiraling with: “What will people think when I update my LinkedIn to say ‘copywriter’?” “Is this copy good enough? What if my client hates this?” “I’m bothering people. Why would they want to hear from me?” Then I really would love you to join the conversation and listen in! Take 30 minutes (15 if you listen on double speed like me 😉) and get the mindset framework that will help you get un-stuck. ------------- Mentioned in the Episode The Let Them Theory by Mel RobbinsThe 5 Second Rule: Transform your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage by Mel RobbinsThe High 5 Daily Journal by Mel Robbins Related Links 8 Copywriting Books Copywriters Need to Read to Build Marketing and Mindset Skills3 Books Every Copywriter Must ReadBook Pick: How to Get Out of Your Own Way and Achieve Copywriting Success -------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

What if you pursue copywriting and realize … this still isn’t the right path? After getting laid off, Jeanette launched her copywriting business (in an impressive 30 days!). But six months in despite hitting her goals, she realized something still didn’t feel right. So, she pivoted again. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Jeanette was generous enough to share how she used the skills she learned as a copywriter to launch her very own business. Owning her identity as an introvert has led Jeanette to the most fulfilling work of her life (so far!), running a business aimed at supporting introverts like herself. Whether you’re mid-pivot or post-panic in your copywriting career, Jeanette’s story will inspire you to go for more. ------------ Mentioned in the Episode Jeanette website: jesuisjeanette.comCan an Introvert Be a Successful Copywriter?Why Brand Voice Matters in Copywriting Related Links Ep. 232: From Copywriter to Product Marketer (And Homeowner in Spain!) – Alba’s StoryEp. 225: What Jobs Can I Do As a Copywriter? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

“But I’ve already spent so much time and energy on this…” Ever found yourself stuck in something—whether it’s a career, a relationship, or even a client—because it felt too late to walk away? That’s the sunk cost fallacy talking. And it might be holding you back from the career (and life!) you actually want. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, we’re breaking down why we cling to paths that aren’t working for us. If you’ve struggled with the difference between giving up or letting go to move forward, this is for you. Feeling that gut pull that something’s not right? This is your permission slip to trust it. Remember: past you doesn’t get to run the show for present and future you anymore. ----------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 214: Replacing a Corporate Job Salary with a 6-Figure Copywriting Business – Tori’s StoryEp. 218: Copywriting Opens Doors to Career Opportunities – Sunny’s StoryEp. 229: Changing a Habit? Here’s the Cycle You’re Going Through Related Links Ep. 175: Career Resolutions to Make Right NowEp. 223: If Not Now, When? A Deep Dive Into Decision MakingEp. 186: Are You Stuck in an Employee Mindset? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

She left her hairstylist job one day … and landed an agency copywriting role the next. Her portfolio when she landed the job? 100% spec ads. She’s never stepped foot in an office. And right now? She’s working remotely from Morocco, contracting with agencies around the world. To say we’re in awe of Katherine’s path is an understatement. After more than a decade behind the chair, she knew it was time to make the emotional decision to move on. And if you’re feeling that same pull—even if you love your current career—Katherine’s story is one you need to hear. Katherine was kind enough to spend some time sharing her story on the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, including the strategies that helped launch her copywriting career. As someone who loved her job, she’s offering deep insight into how she knew it was the right time to make a change. ---------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 100: Take Advantage of the Digital Nomad LifestylePortfolio Examples That Wow ClientsBreak Into New Copywriting Industries Using Spec Ads Related Links Ep. 232: From Copywriter to Product Marketer (And Homeowner in Spain!) – Alba’s StoryBONUS – Laser Coaching: How Can I Work Remotely from Anywhere in the World? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

You’ve written your copy. You’ve proofread it. You’re ready to send it off to the client… …Or are you? In this week’s episode of Build Your Copywriting Business, we’re walking you through the often skipped step that comes between “done writing” and “client ready.” Think: a mini checklist—but not your typical copyediting or proofreading list. We’re talking strategy and specific copy tweaks that will make your message stronger (and, ultimately, work better!). These are the questions we run through every single time before handing off copy to a client—and after this episode, you’ll have them in your toolkit, too. -------------- Mentioned in the Episode What Your Headlines Are MissingWhat’s a CTA or Call to Action?How to Write a Sales Page That’ll Make Your Client EcstaticWhere Content Belongs on Your Copywriting Portfolio Site Related Links Ep. 74: Copywriting Checklist: 5 Things to Check Before Submitting Copy4 Things Most Copywriters Get Wrong on Their Portfolio Websites --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Ever felt so drained and discouraged you thought, “Maybe I should just give up”? That’s exactly where Bart was—not just doubting his move from corporate sales to copywriting, but seriously questioning if he could make it work at all. Fast forward: Bart is now booked out for six months—and here’s what may surprise you… …he did it without social media. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business, Bart was generous to share his story, including how he turned things around. He’s also sharing the mindset shifts that helped him push through the hardest moments, and the surprising decisions (like stepping completely away from social) that actually helped him thrive. As Bart says, “A lot can change in a very short time… if you don’t give up.” If you’re burned out or doubting yourself, this episode might be exactly what you need to hear. ----------------- Mentioned in the Episode Bart Ellebaut LinkedInBONUS Laser Coaching: Top Tips for Wildly Effective PitchingBONUS Laser Coaching: Asking for Feedback to Combat Imposter SyndromeEp. 134: Keep Copywriting Fun: 3 Must-Implement Business Boundaries Related Links Ep. 191: This Copywriter Books Work 3+ Months Out—Here’s How She Does It – Lizzie’s StoryEp. 95: Hitting 6 Figures As a Copywriter in 6 Months – Stacy’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here