As a beginning copywriter, you know the jobs are out there. However, finding them at first can be difficult. Breaking into a market where many established copywriters already exist can be even more difficult.

However, you’ve got one great asset on your side - those established copywriters are often extremely expensive! Most webmasters need sales letter tweaked, word arrangements polished, and benefits lists jazzed up, but not all of them have the money to shell out thousands of dollars for a sales letter. In fact, many of them are getting started, just like you!

So, you can use this situation to your advantage!

Begin establishing  yourself as a copywriter with killer sales skills by catering to the little guy. Advertise low rates, and be sure to note that you’re only charging these rates for a limited time while you establish your business. Doing so will get clients in the door, and allow you to gain referrals and testimonials. Network on forums to find jobs this way - post a link in your signature file stating that you offer affordable copywriting, with a link to your portfolio or blog.  Some good places to start are The Warrior Forum and Site Point,
While you build up your client base, you can also find jobs on bidding sites. Elance, Guru, Get A Freelancer, and Rent a Ghostwriter are all places to possibly find jobs. Keep in mind, however, that many offers may be low paying at first, until you build up a feedback rating. There are also jobs regularly posted in various places across the internet, such as Craigslist and various forums.  The Golden Pencil, a great blog for all types of writers, posts these jobs regularly several times a week.

There are lots of jobs available on the internet, however, networking and applying for them takes time. Be sure to budget your time schedule appropriately, leaving time for networking, forum marketing, and checking job listings on a regular basis. As a freelance copywriter, these are excellent ways to build your client base.

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Do you offer a great copywriting service, but spend all your time talking up your clients’ products instead of yourself? This week, take the time to work on your OWN sales copy. Spend time writing the copy that sells your services, and developing a killer brand. Brainstorm some great company domain names, and check to see what’s available. If you’re just getting started, launch your copywriting business under your own name or your chosen company name. Make it memorable, easy to say, and snappy - something that your clients can keep on the tip of their tongue.

You want to set yourself apart from the pack, so take time to invest in quality graphics and web design, and get yourself a web presence set up to go with your domain name. You may even be able to find designers and programmers who will barter with you, exchanging your writing skill for their programming skill. Spend some time networking on forums - you’ll be surprised what you may be able to turn up if you just ask for the help you need.

Invest in your own company this week - take time to develop your brand. As you build a client base, a brand is essential to being recognized and successful.  After all, very few people will remember writerwoman007 as a screen name, but we’ve all heard of names like Tiffany Dow, Brain McElroy, and Vince Runza.  Take time to develop your brand today, and see where it takes you as a writer. You’ll be glad you did.

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If you’re attempting to break into writing for the web, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Beginning copywriters often struggle with where to find jobs, how to show clients that they are available, and how to get those first few testimonials. Establishing yourself as a copywriter doesn’t have to be a difficult process, however, and can actually be done with very little money up front.

First, you should develop a few copywriting samples. Begin to build a swipe file, and study master copywriters to get ideas of what types of copy sells well. Your clients will want to see what you can do, so have samples available for them, as well as a general idea of what type of rates you’ll be charging.

When you begin, charge lower than market value. You may want to do your first few copywriting jobs on a barter basis,  in exhange for web design, advertising, or testimonials. This can be a good way to gain experience, without expecting clients to spend a large amount of money on an untested writer.

To showcase your services, you may want to set up a website with rates and samples. Blogger and wordpress both allow you to build sites for free, or you could pay or trade services with a web designer. This will allow you to have your rates, portfolio, and basic information in one central location. You can then link to your website from your signature file in forums, and enable potential clients to find you quickly.

Establishing yourself as a copywriter takes time and effort, but it you’re willing to start with low paying jobs and work your way to the top, you have an excellent chance at success. Learn everything you can in the process, and you’re well on your way to writing your own paycheck!

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