An Introduction to Commercial Writing
Corporate writing or commercial writing, as they say, is similar to each other. Although this may not sound as creative as writing blogs, journals, or stories, it is still an exciting field that allows you to experiment with various niches and, more importantly, enables you to write for multiple clients at once.
As a result, if you have never tried to write a commercial piece, this is an ideal starting point for you. If you ask experienced commercial writers, they will guide you on the same. Everyone begins with copywriting. Not only is this an exciting field, but it pays well too. Like every writer, you can learn new facets of language, enhance your skills, and use different tones and styles to maneuver a specific message. See! It can be as creative as you want it to be.
From writing the health benefits of sardines and red grapes to describing how bobcats function, you have everything to test and prosper. Moreover, if you have been a part of multiple genres at once, consider utilizing this information and facts for future articles. So, let’s get you started with what commercial writing is.
What is Commercial Writing?
This type of writing is for companies. A freelance or copywriter tends to write a copy to help businesses interact with their clients and customers. Every brochure, advertisement, catalog, and sales letter you’ve come across was written by a commercial writer. This goes the same for TV and radio ads and all those fundraising letters sent by charities. Wait, we aren’t finished yet! Every catalog description you have gone through on multiple websites is written by content writers.
Copywriting is a massive field. Some of the usual jobs a commercial writer can indulge in are mentioned in a rundown:
- Advertisement copy
- Press releases
- Catalog descriptions
- Brochures
- Sales letters
- Company newsletters
- Scripts for television/radio advertisements
- Website content
- Website advertisements
- Direct mail campaigns
- Scripts for promotional films
- Specialist magazines/articles for publication in trade
- White Papers
- Speeches
It can be fun if one thinks they like the sound of it. Followed by specific fields, commercial writers can be called upon to write these:
- Training manuals
- Internal corporate newsletters
- Job advertisements
- Office procedures
- Company reports
- Corporate vision statements
- Motivational posters
What can you earn as a copywriter/commercial writer?
This largely depends on the work you are into and the experience you have gathered. But, guess what? You can make a real livelihood by committing to commercial writing as your full-time career. And, if you want to adhere to commercial writing on a part-time basis, it can be an ideal way to supplement other income streams.
For instance, writing around 300-350 words for a newsletter can quickly provide you with $25 an hour. Some companies may offer you a temporary contract while others provide a quick job. One can also write press releases for event marketers and earn up to £60 ($120) for every press release. The varying hourly pay rates for article writing and press releases are entirely different. All one has to do is find the right mix since these involve a similar skill.
How do you become a writer?
The good news is that any individual can become a commercial copywriter. Like other writing areas, there are several courses and books about how to begin in this area. Another excellent news is that most of the content work you can take falls under the freelance area. You won’t be competing with staff or contributing writers and editors. Most organizations tend to utilize freelance content writers instead of in-house writing teams. That is because freelancing is tangible, flexible, and cost-effective for companies.
Image Credits
This has to be the most profound factor. A budding writer does not require any initial investment to begin their writing journey. You only need an internet connection, computer/laptop, telephone, and a printer (if needed).
What you require:
A Website
Several writers own a website where they advertise their services and tend to showcase writing skills. Such a website can comprise a brief about you and the experience you have gathered in all these years. Moreover, do not list your rates as seasoned professionals believe there’s no such thing as typical projects with typical fees. Besides, try enlisting your work samples for companies to look at your work and the clients you have worked with.
Business Cards
Get business cards printed with your title and name. You can either choose online designing sites or have them designed at a nearby store. But, remember, do not put excess information on the card.
Word of Mouth Marketing
Follow the basics. Tell people around you that you’re a commercial copywriter/ talk to your bank manager, friends, people you meet at a cafe, or tourists on vacation. Hand them your business card whenever you can.
Featured Image Credits: Pixabay
