Q: Do you only work for large corporations?
A: No. About one third of my work comes from small companies with 1-20 employees. As long as you're a professional with a sensible budget, I'm interested.

Q: How much do you charge?
A: I charge mid-market prices for a top-quality service. Copywriters usually estimate for jobs on a daily basis. For example, a four-page A4 brochure may take two days. Daily rates for copywriters can rise to £500 per day. I charge less.

Q: What's good copywriting all about?
A: Apart from the obvious (being able to write), the most important factor is understanding your audience's wants and fears. Next, you must explain the benefits in a way that anticipates their train of thought, answering each question as it occurs to them. And finally, you direct them towards a 'call to action' to buy or take the next step.   

Q: Are there any sectors you don't write about?
A: Yes. I'm fine with most subjects. But I know nothing about healthcare, the legal industry or heavy-duty finance. 

Q: Anything else you avoid?
A: Yes, jobs involving politics, religion or unethical business. As a journalist, my scam-radar also detects pyramid-selling and dodgy business schemes very quickly. But I'd really prefer if these people didn't bother contacting me at all.   

Q: Do you only work for UK clients?
A: My clients tend to be UK-based. But I'm happy working for well-established overseas companies. I'm unlikely to work for unknown firms overseas in case of problems with payment.

Q: What are your terms and conditions?
A: I send these when I estimate for jobs. My payment terms are 30 days from invoice. Once paid for, the copyright for the text belongs to you.

Q: Do you offer more than copywriting?
A: Yes. I work on a retainer basis for companies that need regular help with a wide range of marketing. I offer this expertise as one of my services.  

Q: What do you look for in a client?
A: Speedy payment is appreciated. So too is flexibility ... when someone gives you a few days to complete a project, rather than always expecting a 'same-day' service. Interesting projects are great too. But a trusted, professional relationship is actually most important to me. 

Q: I'd like to meet face-to-face, is that OK?
A: Yes, as long as the project represents more than 1-2 days' work - or if you're prepared to pay for my time.

Q: You sound busy - are you available?
A: I'm often 70-100 per cent busy. But I can usually accept new projects. If I'm snowed under, I have two copywriter colleagues. We once worked together at an agency, so we trust each other and write to a high standard. Contact me and we'll do our best to help.
 
Q: I'm interested in becoming a copywriter, any tips?
A: Yes. It's a long road. (If you're a student, first follow a career in journalism or marketing). Forget any notions that copywriting is an easy way to make money. A newcomer will find it incredibly hard to find work, especially without a portfolio of projects. I'm unaware of any 'copywriter qualifications' being helpful either. Basically, you need to love writing - and be doing it already. Write for local papers, web sites, magazines, friends' businesses ... for free, or just a few pounds. Also, write about your passion (eg. cars, football, health, etc) because that's where you'll shine. Before long, your style will improve and you'll build up a portfolio. But even then, it's hard finding work and struggling with cash-flow.
I have a couple of copywriting friends. We help each other during busy and quiet spells. But I can't offer you any work. 

If you have any more questions, contact me today.