How to Become a Technical Copywriter
Most companies would hire a freelance copywriter to write articles or advertisements dealing on technical aspects of different products. The marketing department and the public relation are focused in technological agencies that hire various job offers and freelance work for copywriters. Most people move into these freelancing jobs from other opportunities, such as technical copywriters, technology writers, marketers and advertisers. Those who have enough knowledge in specific technical skills and public relations can also venture into a freelance copywriting career.
However, before you start accepting offers, you should study the industry particularly the requirements in writing good technical write ups. You can read books dealing with specific technical know-how. If you are adept with computers, then it is just reasonable to venture into technical writing concerning the computer industry or the information technology business. You can find books or websites as a good background in any kind of venture not just an added factor, but also a necessity. You can enroll in technical training to fill in any particular fissures in your knowledge and capabilities in such areas like marketing, technical writing and public relations.
You can gain ample experience by studying marketing and public relations as you advance with your freelancing.
After gaining knowledge, you may feel that it is enough. However, you should keep up with the latest technology and marketing trends to look for possible clients and networking opportunities.
The portfolio is more important than a resume when you are in a freelancing job. Your curriculum vitae may boast of a master’s degree in communications and creative writings, but if your write-ups are bad, you will be ditched before someone will hire you. Gather previously written articles, but they should be great. If there are grammatical errors and erroneous thoughts, then revise it. If you do not have any write-ups, then write one, and devote your entire writing arsenal on them since they will be the basis of the clients to hire you or not.
After preparing physically and mentally, you can now create a network of possible clients. Never hesitate to make a phone or e-mail inquiry, as no one will swarm a beginning freelancer. Once you have settled everything including the physical set-up of your home-based office, you should look for companies or even professional who may need your copywriting services. Never give up. For you to succeed in copywriting services, you have to chase as many freelance opportunities as you can. Use the internet. By encoding words such as freelance technical opportunities, you can look for current job proposals.
Once you have finished building your contacts, begin communicating with the clients. You do not need a hard sales proposal. Just make a brief self introduction and your freelance business and tell them how you can help them with their PR needs. Make sure to keep them brief and be direct. Chitchat over the phone is great if you are calling Aunt Maggie, on a trip to Hawaii. Respect their time and be honest with them. Never accept a job and craft with imagined skills you don’t truly have.
While in business, continuously hone your skills. You can take technical training or read online articles or blogs in the field of copywriting and on the field of your chosen product. It is very essential to stay updated if you are a freelance copywriter.