If you’re looking to start a side hustle and earn some extra cash, becoming a copywriter could be the perfect opportunity. With the rise of digital marketing, businesses in various industries are constantly in need of skilled writers to craft compelling messages that resonate with their target customers. Whether it’s writing social posts, an email, or a landing page, as a freelance copywriter, you’ll have the flexibility to work from anywhere and choose your own hours.
A copywriting side hustle is a creative and profitable way to boost your income while gaining valuable experience. You don’t need to start with a full-time commitment — a freelance job can give you the freedom to take on projects as you learn and grow your skills. It’s an ideal entry point if you’re looking for flexibility in both your work and time.
You can start by learning the basics of copywriting through an introductory course or by watching videos that teach you the foundations. The right tools and training can help you develop your writing style and improve your ability to convince people to take action, whether it’s signing up for a newsletter or clicking a buy button.
With practice, you can expand your reach to different businesses and attract more clients. Eventually, you’ll be able to create content that captures attention and drives eyeballs to a brand’s message, helping businesses increase their sales and marketing efforts.
Copywriting is a sought-after skill that can provide long-term success in your freelancing career, all while allowing you to work on your own terms.
As a freelance copywriter, your skills in writing can open up endless opportunities for you. By starting with a simple introductory course or watching videos on content writing, you’ll gradually improve your ability to craft persuasive messages that convince customers to take action. The freedom to choose your own hours and work from anywhere gives you the flexibility to balance your side hustle with other responsibilities.
Businesses from all over the world are looking for clients who can deliver high-quality content that speaks directly to their audience. Over time, your communication skills will improve, making you an even more valuable asset in the marketing world. Whether you’re working on an email campaign or a landing page, your writing will drive traffic and help businesses increase their sales.
As you gain experience, your side hustle can evolve into a full-time job that generates consistent income. This freelance job offers not only financial success but also the opportunity for personal and professional growth in the ever-changing world of digital marketing.
Key Takeaways
Starting a copywriting side hustle offers flexibility and a chance to earn extra income through various projects like SEO, social media, and email marketing. Even with no prior experience, you can build your skills through online courses and mock projects while leveraging platforms like Upwork to find freelance gigs. By focusing on niches like e-commerce or startup pitch decks, you can gradually expand your portfolio and increase your earning potential. Whether you’re looking for a part-time endeavor or full-time success, copywriting offers a path to financial growth and professional development.
How To Launch A Copywriting Side Hustle ( Beginners Guide)
Understand Copywriting
To learn the basics of copywriting, you need a firm grasp of the fundamentals. Think of it like being the captain of a ship navigating through unknown waters—you need the right supplies and knowledge to set sail and make it to your destination. A strong foundation in copywriting will ensure smooth sailing as you refine your persuasive style and become proficient in branding and messaging strategy.
To start, immerse yourself in reading valuable books and courses that provide the tools and resources you’ll need to succeed. Some great resources include the Adweek Copywriting Handbook by Joseph Sugarman, “Boron Letters” by Gary Halbert, and “Wired for Story” by Lisa Cron. These will equip you with the right materials for your toolkit.
With time, your copywriting skills will evolve, and you’ll have the ability to craft powerful messages that resonate with audiences, thanks to your understanding of social psychology. Navigating through homepage copywriting or creating ads will become second nature as you learn to find the right message that speaks to the target customer.
Books like “The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg and “Hooked” by Nir Eyal will further help you find the perfect balance between storytelling and selling, ultimately making your writing an asset that drives results.
Choose a Niche
When starting your journey as a copywriter, it’s essential to pick a niche or specialty that aligns with your interests and offers opportunities to build credibility. By focusing on a specific industry, such as health, fitness, or technology, you can develop a strong expertise and become a go-to resource for businesses within that field. For instance, if you have a passion for fitness, specializing in email campaigns or landing pages for health-related businesses will help you expand your skill set while building momentum.
Consider emerging trends in different sectors, like the travel industry. If you enjoy writing about travel, becoming a travel writer or blogger will give you the chance to research and produce valuable content. This type of experience can also lead to new opportunities as businesses within the industry seek your writing.
As you honing your craft, you’ll gain connections with potential clients who appreciate your unique expertise. Whether you’re ready for a new challenge or want to switch to a different specialty, your dedication to researching and understanding the nuances of your niche will guide you toward a successful copywriting career.
Get Experience
To develop your skills as a copywriter, start by creating a blog where you can practice and refine your writing. Use this platform to showcase your ability to write compelling copy that can grab attention and drive organic leads. As you build your portfolio, focus on producing blog posts that demonstrate your expertise in your chosen niche.
This will help potential clients notice your work and give you the opportunity to land more freelance gigs. Freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to find clients and start earning money while you build your portfolio. Additionally, use social media to build your connection with a wider audience. Platforms like Twitter, Quora, and Facebook provide opportunities to showcase your writing skills.
Engage in meaningful discussions, post insightful articles, and answer questions that resonate with your target audience. This will not only help improve your ability to communicate concisely but will also attract more attention to your work. Whether it’s writing a short post on Facebook or answering questions on Quora, these small efforts can create a following and show that you are a capable copywriter.
If you want to further improve your craft, consider taking an internship or working with a writing agency to gain experience in a more structured setting. Here, you will receive guidance, support, and invaluable feedback on your writing. This will help you fine-tune your skills, from creating landing page copy to writing sales materials.
Volunteering for local causes like a kids’ theatre troupe or a car dealership can also provide you with hands-on experience while helping you build a professional portfolio. Don’t forget to keep your personal website updated with your latest work to continue building your skills and increase your chances of success.
Build a Portfolio
Building a portfolio is one of the most important steps for any aspiring copywriter. A strong portfolio is a collection of your best work that demonstrates your writing abilities and gives potential clients a glimpse of your talent and skill set. It should showcase various pieces of copy, such as emails, online ads, magazine ads, and other types of content you’ve created.
The goal is to provide relevant information and samples that show how your writing has led to quantifiable results like increased conversions, website traffic, or lower bounce rates. Having a website with a clean, professional layout is essential to making a strong first impression.
Your portfolio should not only feature your best work but also include testimonials from previous clients (even if it’s free work for friends or family) to validate your capabilities. An about me page is also a key component to help clients understand who you are and your value proposition. It’s where you can explain why you’re the best fit for their businesses and what makes your writing style unique.
To get started, you don’t need to wait for paid gigs. You can create mock samples for an imaginary company or volunteer your services to non-profit organizations, which will allow you to hone your skills and gain experience. These projects are not just practice; they can be valuable additions to your portfolio, showcasing your creativity and ability to apply copywriting principles in a real-world context.
As you gain more experience, focus on improving the quality of your content, learning from feedback, and building connections that may lead to referrals and paying gigs.
Lastly, always aim for tangible results in your portfolio. Make sure to highlight how your work contributed to business growth and the success of your clients. A solid portfolio isn’t just a list of samples—it’s a tool that speaks for your marketing and copywriting skills. The more you develop your portfolio with paid work and continue building your writing chops, the more you’ll increase your chances of earning and landing bigger freelance opportunities.
Find Copywriting Opportunities
You should know where to look for quality clients and job opportunities. One of the best ways to get started is by networking with others in the industry and tapping into both traditional and digital platforms. Just as a hairstylist would connect with potential clients through a salon, a copywriter can utilize job boards and websites like ProBlogger to find job listings specifically for writers.
Once you identify potential opportunities, don’t hesitate to pitch your copywriting skills directly. You can do this by reaching out to clients via email, using cold emailing techniques to get noticed. Craft an outreach email that showcases your copywriting expertise and includes a sample of your ad copy or other work.
Demonstrating familiarity with the brand you’re pitching to and offering clear proof of your abilities will help convince them that you’re the right fit for the job. Your writing chops and ability to sell yourself will be key to success.
Along with job boards, social media platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram provide incredible opportunities for building connections and showcasing your skills. By posting examples of your work, engaging with potential clients, and consistently offering valuable content, you’ll increase your client trust and your chances of landing work.
The more you pitch ideas, create engaging content, and communicate effectively, the more likely you are to get hired. Remember, with the right outreach and writing samples, you can demonstrate that you have the persuasion and communication skills needed to drive customer action and help businesses grow.
Market Yourself as a Freelance Copywriter
To become a successful freelance copywriter, learning how to market yourself effectively is key. First, you need to establish a strong web presence by creating a website that showcases your portfolio and copywriting services.
Having a well-organized website on platforms like WordPress or SquareSpace not only adds credibility but also gives you the flexibility to update your portfolio and share testimonials that highlight your skills and past successes. This will make potential clients trust your ability to deliver results.
SEO is another important tool for boosting your visibility. Optimizing your website and LinkedIn profile with relevant keywords will improve your ranking and make it easier for clients to find you during their job search. Additionally, actively engaging with others through networking, whether it’s attending events or sending outreach emails, will help you expand your professional network.
Make sure to share your expertise and post engaging content on social media to increase your visibility and attract more freelance work.
In addition to online efforts, selling your services in-person through meetings or phone calls can be just as effective. Building connections by making a positive first impression, whether through eye contact or handshakes, will set you apart from others in a crowded market.
By focusing on client engagement, profile optimization, and using effective marketing strategies like ads and outreach, you’ll increase your chances of landing gigs. With a strong digital marketing strategy and commitment to career growth, you’ll attract more clients, ultimately leading to successful client acquisition and long-term success as a freelance copywriter.
What Is Copywriting?
Copywriting is the art of writing persuasive and impactful content designed to attract attention and drive action. Whether it’s for advertising, marketing materials, or promoting a product, a copywriter uses their skill to create copy that speaks directly to the target audience. The goal is to encourage the reader to take action, such as making a purchase, signing up for a service, or engaging with the content in some way.
Copywriting can be found in various forms, from websites and brochures to emails and ads. For businesses, it is essential to craft content that not only promotes their services but also drives sales.
A good copywriter understands how to write in a way that speaks the language of the audience, using persuasive techniques and understanding psychology to solve problems and provide solutions. The tone of voice is crucial as it helps convey the right message in the right way.
In essence, copywriting involves more than just words on a page—it’s about crafting messages that resonate with the audience, make them feel something, and ultimately influence their decision to act. By mastering different types of copywriting, you can explore various sectors, from direct sales to informative content that builds brand trust and loyalty.
Conversion Copywriting & SEO Copywriting
Conversion copywriting focuses on crafting content that resonates with readers and compels them to take action. Whether it’s getting potential customers to make a purchase, sign up for a newsletter, or engage with a brand, conversion copywriters use persuasive messages that build trust and address the needs of the audience.
This technique was popularized by experts like Joanna Wiebe of Copyhackers and is commonly used by brands in industries like SaaS, software as a service, tech, and e-commerce. The goal is to create content that motivates readers to act, whether that means signing up for a free trial or clicking the purchase button.
On the other hand, SEO copywriting is the practice of creating content that’s optimized for search engines, ensuring it ranks well in search engine results pages (SERPs). This involves incorporating the right keywords that Google and other search engines recognize, thus improving your website’s visibility. By writing SEO-friendly content, you can help your website or blog attract more organic traffic.
The key to SEO copywriting is to seamlessly integrate relevant keywords into your content without sacrificing readability or quality. SEO requires an expert understanding of how to optimize your content for both readers and search engines. For beginners, it’s essential to start small, learn best practices, and gradually work your way up to more advanced SEO strategies.
Pros and Cons
If you’re committing to copywriting as a side hustle, it’s essential to understand both the pros and cons of this endeavor. One of the biggest pros is the flexible schedule—you can work anywhere, whether you’re at the beach or in the comfort of your home. This flexibility gives you the freedom to balance other responsibilities and gives you high earnings potential while still having time for personal activities.
With variety in the types of projects you can take on and the different clients you can work with, there are plenty of opportunities for creativity. It’s a great way to learn new things, expand your skill set, and apply your creativity to diverse fields.
However, there are some cons to keep in mind. The most significant downside is job security. As a side hustle, you may not always have a steady stream of work, and deadlines can be challenging, especially when juggling multiple projects. Solitude can also be a downside since much of the work is done alone, which might not suit everyone.
The limitations of income can be another hurdle, particularly when you’re just getting started and building your portfolio. You’ll need to keep up with changing trends, which can sometimes be overwhelming.
Despite these drawbacks, copywriting as a side hustle can still be a blessing if you’re in the right place to take advantage of the opportunities it offers. The ability to gain experience while being your own boss and having a flexible schedule makes it worth pursuing, even if it’s just as an introduction to the world of freelancing.
It’s all about how you manage your time and expectations as you dive into this new venture. So if you’re ready to embrace the challenges, copywriting can offer valuable skills and the opportunity for growth.
Is a Copywriting Side Hustle Right for You?
Copywriting suits you best if you have all or some of these qualities.
Writing Experience
If you have previous writing experience, whether it’s from theatre scripts, participating in National Novel Writing Month, working as a junior reporter for a local paper, or simply a long-standing hobby or passion for the written word, then copywriting could be the perfect side hustle for you. Your experience will give you an edge, allowing you to create compelling stories that engage readers with the right flow and tone of voice.
If you’ve already written articles, blog posts, or other pieces of content, you already understand how to structure your writing in a way that grabs attention. With this foundation, you can easily get started and offer your services to companies that need strong copy to stand out.
Multitasking
If you’re someone who can balance multiple tasks and manage your time well, then copywriting is a great side hustle for you. As an independent contractor, you’ll need organizational skills and the ability to multitask—whether it’s managing different clients or juggling various projects. With a knack for time management, you can easily track your commitments and meet deadlines. The challenge of keeping multiple plates spinning will bring a sense of satisfaction, as you keep things moving and your clients happy.
Networking
Being a successful copywriter often requires you to network and build connections. If you’re comfortable reaching out to potential clients, whether it’s through social media, attending events, or simply building relationships, you’ll have a leg up. Networking is essential to promoting your services and expanding your reach. If you can show off your skills and get out there to promote your work, you’ll find new clients and opportunities in no time.
Understand Human Behaviour
A passion for human behavior can be a huge asset in copywriting. Understanding people’s motivations, desires, and needs is a key part of writing persuasive and impactful content. If you’re fascinated by psychology and how people make decisions, then you can leverage that insight to craft messages that trigger the right emotions and appeal to your audience on a personal level. This makes copywriting a rewarding profession that taps into your ability to connect with others through the written word.
Have Fun Learning
If you enjoy learning and staying up-to-date with current trends, then copywriting will keep you engaged. As a side hustle, it offers a chance to continually update your skills and expand your knowledge on various topics like marketing, biohacking, disruptive innovation, and even niche fields like cryptocurrency.
By taking courses, doing research, and applying your learning through writing, you can refine your craft and improve the effectiveness of your messages, ensuring they resonate with different clients. The variety of industries and topics you’ll encounter will keep things fresh and exciting, making it a perfect challenge for those who love to learn.
Ready to Start Your Copywriting Side Hustle?
Starting a copywriting side hustle isn’t about getting rich overnight—it’s about building a steady stream of extra income through freelance writing. Begin by honing your skills with free resources for beginners, like blogs or online courses, and create a portfolio showcasing your content.
Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr offer freelance jobs to kickstart your journey. Post your services on social media, network in LinkedIn groups, and leverage marketing strategies to attract clients.
Consistency is key: Dedicate time daily to pitch, write, and refine your craft.
To turn this side hustle into a steady income, share your expertise through a blog or guest posts to establish authority. Engage in online communities to answer questions and build relationships. Consider joining a mentorship program for tailored guidance.
As you grow, prioritize career-boosting opportunities—high-paying gigs, retainer clients, or niche specialization. Contact peers for collaborations and appreciate feedback to improve. With persistence, your extra income can evolve into full-time success. Happy freelancing—your journey starts now!
10 Copywriting Side Hustles You Can Start Today!
1. Search Engine Optimization
In freelance copywriting, SEO is crucial if you want to create compelling content that ranks high on Google. The goal is to get websites to appear on the first page of search results rather than on subsequent pages. Learning the art and science of SEO copywriting can make your work stand out. By understanding SEO fundamentals, like how Google’s algorithms work, you can tailor your writing to meet the needs of both the client and the audience.
2. Social Media Copywriting
Social media is where the action happens if you’re looking to make extra cash as a social media copywriter. Writing catchy posts for memes, viral trends, or Instagram captions and Facebook posts is an excellent way to engage customers. The goal is to grab their attention with creative content that prompts likes, shares, and comments, ultimately boosting customer engagement. Platforms like Upwork offer social media copywriting jobs with pay ranging from $14–$35 per hour.
3. Email Marketing
Email marketing is all about sending the right messages to the right people at the right time. As a freelance copywriter, you’ll be crafting eye-catching content that encourages recipients to click and read your emails instead of letting them land in the spam folder. Successful email marketing campaigns involve more than just sending random messages; it’s about creating targeted messages that resonate with potential customers, whether it’s for product launches or newsletters.
4. Sales Pages
Creating sales pages and landing pages is like being a digital tour guide that leads visitors toward making a purchase. By mastering the art of persuasion, you can craft irresistible content that keeps visitor engaged and prompts them to click Buy Now. These pages should feel like a sales letter that captures attention and nurtures potential buyers into taking action. A strong sales writing strategy can help businesses grow their email list and drive sales through well-crafted webpage copy.
5. Product Descriptions
Product descriptions are the unsung heroes of online shopping. These simple yet essential pieces of writing turn ordinary items into something indispensable. Whether it’s for new products hitting the shelves or refreshing the copy for existing ones, writing compelling narratives can make a big thing out of a product. As a copywriter, you’ll create sales pitches that catch the attention of potential buyers.
6. Social Media Optimization
Social media optimization (SMO) is essential for turning your social media profile into the public face of your business or personal brand. Using effective strategies to enhance your online presence allows you to showcase your strengths and capabilities. With eye-catching content, you can maximize your online impact on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram profiles, and X bios. As a social media copywriting expert, you’ll be able to craft LinkedIn summaries and social media accounts that draw attention and engagement.
7. Podcast Scriptwriting
Podcast scriptwriting is about crafting narratives that capture the audience’s attention. Whether it’s for a true crime series, health and wellness topics, or any other area of interest, writing a compelling roadmap for each episode is key to success. A well-written script is what informs and entertains listeners, keeping them engaged from start to finish. As a podcast scriptwriter, your skills can make or break a show, so your scriptwriting needs to be top-notch.
8. E-Commerce
In e-commerce, writing enticing product descriptions is key to attracting customers and driving sales. As a copywriter, you’ll work on e-commerce copywriting to craft compelling product titles, bullet points, and main product descriptions that resonate with buyers. Whether it’s optimizing seller profiles or improving the overall listing optimization for stores like Amazon, the goal is to make each product stand out. E-commerce copywriters have a unique opportunity to work on a grander scale, helping businesses attract more customers through well-written content.
9. Startup Pitch Decks
Creating a successful startup pitch deck is like preparing for your own version of Shark Tank. As a copywriter, your job is to craft a compelling pitch that highlights the ideas behind the products or businesses in a way that resonates with investors. A well-structured pitch deck includes PowerPoint slides that balance facts, figures, and a story that clearly articulates the vision of the startup.
10. Small Business Services
As a freelance writer, you can have a huge impact on small business owners by offering services that help them grow. For many small businesses, strong written content is the lifeblood of their marketing efforts. Whether it’s crafting the “About Us” page, writing engaging brochures, or creating other marketing materials, your words can make a difference. Small business owners need someone to handle the nitty-gritty of their content needs, from their website to their brochure—saving them time to focus on running a business.
FAQs
Is Copywriting a Good Side Hustle?
Copywriting is an excellent side hustle for earning extra income with the flexibility to choose freelance projects that fit your schedule. It works well alongside a full-time job, making it a great way to complement your current commitments.
How Do I Get a Copywriting Job with No Experience?
To get a copywriting job without experience, be proactive by taking online courses to learn the basics, building a portfolio with mock projects, and offering volunteer work. Showing initiative and strong writing skills can attract potential clients even without formal experience.
How Much Does a Copywriter Make in a Year?
The average annual salary for copywriting services is around $57,294, but it can vary based on experience, specialization, and location. Freelancers on platforms like Upwork can earn between $19 and $45 per hour, depending on their skills and experience.