Ever wondered what it’s like to work online as a copywriter? In this series of interview posts, we will be talking about different ways to make money online. Today, the brilliant Lauren Osselton tells us what it’s like to work remotely as a copywriter!
I met Lauri in Montreal. On our afternoon tea date, we talked about writing and our favorite books for hours. Lauri is a storytelling queen and gives the best book recommendations. When we first met, she was launching her copywriting business and it’s now blossomed to new heights.
When I started brainstorming which online jobs I would highlight in this interview series, Lauri immediately popped into my mind to chat about all things copy.
If you’re a writer at heart, working online as a copywriter might be a great fit for you too!
Tell me about yourself! Where are you from and what do you do?
I’m Lauren – but my friends call me Lauri! I’m a copywriter from Canada with a specialty in website copy and brand storytelling. I am currently based in Montreal, Canada, but I serve clients worldwide through my online business.
What exactly does a copywriter do?
Terms like ‘copy’ and ‘copywriter’ are used so often, but are often misunderstood! Really, copy comes down to words that sell your product or service. A copywriter is a writer, yes, but they’re also a marketer. They have the background knowledge and understanding of the tactics and language that sell. Copywriters are often mistaken with content writers – different things completely!
What made you decide to become a copywriter?
I first started my business as a full-suite marketing agency, as my background in my 9-5 was at the level of managing a marketing department. I believed that this was ‘best’ but it wasn’t where my passion lay – I was waking up with the same anxiety and lack of creativity I felt in my 9-5.
I dove deeper and realized that my passion had been staring me right in my face! I paired my lifelong passion for stories and storytelling with my digital marketing experience to become a copywriter! Copy is not just about being a good writer, it’s about being strategic. I absolutely LOVE being a copywriter and am really glad I discovered this about myself!
Where do you find clients/resources/helpful information?
I typically meet all of my clients on Instagram! I work with creative entrepreneurs specifically (designers, crafters, makers, artists, musicians, holistic coaches), and Instagram helps us really get to know each other on a personal level.
What does a day in your life look like?
I love that no two days look the same for me. One day, I may be repurposing content into pieces of copy. Another, I may be drafting a full project of website copy. Being a copywriter is enjoyable and dynamic because you can get your hands on so many different projects!
If you were to help someone else follow in your footsteps, what would you recommend they do?
Start working on getting your portfolio together now. Getting your name out there as a writer will be huge, even if it means getting started with self-publishing blog articles on Medium! Just get your name out there from the beginning and think about building your authority as a copywriter.
Copywriter Job Summary
- Tasks: Writing website copy, repurposing/refreshing existing copy for clients, helping brands tell their story
- Requirements: Excellent writing skills, marketing knowledge, sales strategy
- Hours: Flexible
