69 replies
Hi,

Im a new writer, still working on my first article now for a few months. Its very hard to be satisfied with my writing since Im a perfectionist and wont be satisfied easily. So im hoping to find some inspiration on this forum.

Im writing medical articles with content about different diseases.

I would like to know of you can share any tips that I can use to write good medical content.

Thank you, Maria
#writer
  • Maria,

    Before it happens I should warn you that a few people may shout and scream "This is a copywriting forum! - not an article forum!"

    No need to pay too much attention.

    The same "techniques" apply to copy or article writing.

    First things first.

    What exactly do you want your readers to do - them aim your writing to get them to do it.

    Make the content interesting, illuminating and informative. Try and tell them stuff they don't already know.

    If they do - tell it in a more useful way (what else could this information do? How else could it be used?).

    Don't write too formally, be conversational, understandable and personal. Write one to one.

    So you connect with your readers and have them resonate with you.

    Back up all your statements with credible facts and figures, studies etc (maybe with graphs, pictures or illustrations) prove you are a true expert.

    Make it easy to read.

    No long rambling sentences. And keep the paragraphs 5 - 7 lines (max).

    Vary them. So the article is easy on the eye.

    Again - always keep in mind what it is you want your readers to do, think or conclude.

    And ensure your writing makes them do it.


    Steve


    P.S. Write, take a break, look at it again and edit.

    Add points that should be there. Delete points that shouldn't. Rewrite anything that doesn't flow precisely the way you want it to. Rewrite anything that doesn't convey exactly what you want it to.

    Do this 28 times.

    Make it "work" the way you intended.

    You mentioned perfection. Not always easy. And often massively time consuming. So cut yourself a little slack.

    Just make it exceptionally good.
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    • Profile picture of the author sethczerepak
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      Maria,

      Before it happens I should warn you that a few people may shout and scream "This is a copywriting forum! - not an article forum!"

      No need to pay too much attention.

      The same "techniques" apply to copy or article writing.

      First things first.

      What exactly do you want your readers to do - them aim your writing to get them to do it.

      Make the content interesting, illuminating and informative. Try and tell them stuff they don't already know.

      If they do - tell it in a more useful way (what else could this information do? How else could it be used?).

      Don't write too formally, be conversational and personal. Write one to one.

      So you connect with your readers and have them resonate with you

      Back up all your statements with credible facts and figures, studies etc (maybe with graphs, pictures or illustrations) prove you are a true expert.

      Make it easy to read.

      No long rambling sentences. And keep the paragraphs 5 - 7 lines (max).

      Vary them. So the article is easy on the eye.

      Again - always keep in mind what it is you want your readers to do, think or conclude.

      And ensure your writing makes them do it.


      Steve


      P.S. Write, take a break, look at it again and edit. Add points that should be there. Delete points that shouldn't. Rewrite anything that doesn't flow precisely they way you want it to. Rewrite anything that doesn't convey exactly what you want it to.

      Do this 28 times.
      Actually, I was going to point out an obvious inconsistency...a post full of typos and grammatical error by someone who claims to be a perfectionist.

      (The OP, not you Steve).

      Maria, I think you ought to work on mastering the language before you try to become a writer.

      Wouldn't you agree?
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      • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
        Originally Posted by sethczerepak View Post

        Actually, I was going to point out an obvious inconsistency...a post full of typos and grammatical error by someone who claims to be a perfectionist.

        (The OP, not you Steve).

        Maria, I think you ought to work on mastering the language before you try to become a writer.

        Wouldn't you agree?
        Thanks for your reply.
        Can you show me the errors. I agree that my english isnt very good, its not my native language. But I get the idea from you, that its very very bad. Which I dont agree with. But I like it when people want to help me improve. I can only get better. Do you have any suggestions about what courses I could take online. Courses about formulating sentences the right way?
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      • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
        Originally Posted by sethczerepak View Post

        Actually, I was going to point out an obvious inconsistency...a post full of typos and grammatical error by someone who claims to be a perfectionist.

        (The OP, not you Steve).

        Maria, I think you ought to work on mastering the language before you try to become a writer.

        Wouldn't you agree?
        Perfectionism, does not mean I get this perfectly done. You should google the word perfectionism.
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        • Profile picture of the author Cali16
          Originally Posted by Maria1986 View Post

          Perfectionism, does not mean I get this perfectly done. You should google the word perfectionism.
          No, but it does suggest you care about basic details.

          For example, you used multiple contractions throughout your initial post. Yet you left out the apostrophes in all of them. Here's your first paragraph with the contractions corrected:

          I'm a new writer, still working on my first article now for a few months. It's very hard to be satisfied with my writing since I'm a perfectionist and won't be satisfied easily. So I'm hoping to find some inspiration on this forum.
          That's just for starters...

          With all due respect, I suggest working on your English skills before worrying about inspiration. Right now you're putting the cart before the horse. Writing articles on any topic is a waste of time if you lose 99% of your readers before they finish the first paragraph.
          Signature
          If you don't face your fears, the only thing you'll ever see is what's in your comfort zone. ~Anne McClain, astronaut
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          • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
            Originally Posted by Cali16 View Post

            No, but it does suggest you care about basic details.

            For example, you used multiple contractions throughout your initial post. Yet you left out the apostrophes in all of them. Here's your first paragraph with the contractions corrected:

            That's just for starters...

            With all due respect, I suggest working on your English skills before worrying about inspiration. Right now you're putting the cart before the horse. Writing articles on any topic is a waste of time if you lose 99% of your readers before they finish the first paragraph.
            Thanks Cali. I appreciate your efforts. The apostrophes is purely because im writing fast trhoughout my job. It's not that I don't know how they work. Anything else? Word choice? Or my sentences?
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      Maria,

      Before it happens I should warn you that a few people may shout and scream "This is a copywriting forum! - not an article forum!"

      No need to pay too much attention.

      The same "techniques" apply to copy or article writing.

      First things first.

      What exactly do you want your readers to do - them aim your writing to get them to do it.

      Make the content interesting, illuminating and informative. Try and tell them stuff they don't already know.

      If they do - tell it in a more useful way (what else could this information do? How else could it be used?).

      Don't write too formally, be conversational, understandable and personal. Write one to one.

      So you connect with your readers and have them resonate with you.

      Back up all your statements with credible facts and figures, studies etc (maybe with graphs, pictures or illustrations) prove you are a true expert.

      Make it easy to read.

      No long rambling sentences. And keep the paragraphs 5 - 7 lines (max).

      Vary them. So the article is easy on the eye.

      Again - always keep in mind what it is you want your readers to do, think or conclude.

      And ensure your writing makes them do it.


      Steve


      P.S. Write, take a break, look at it again and edit.

      Add points that should be there. Delete points that shouldn't. Rewrite anything that doesn't flow precisely they way you want it to. Rewrite anything that doesn't convey exactly what you want it to.

      Do this 28 times.

      Make it "work" the way you intended.

      You mentioned perfection. Not always easy. And often massively time consuming. So cut yourself a little slack.

      Just make it exceptionally good.
      Thank you very much steve, this is very helpful. Do have any suggestions of copy that contains that what you described above? Im afraid when I back up my content with studies etc, my post will become too long and readers will stop reading. I do agree that If i want to be an expert at my field that I need to back up my statements.
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      • Originally Posted by Maria1986 View Post

        Thank you very much steve, this is very helpful. Do have any suggestions of copy that contains that what you described above? Im afraid when I back up my content with studies etc, my post will become too long and readers will stop reading. I do agree that If i want to be an expert at my field that I need to back up my statements.

        I'm not an article writer so I don't have any examples.

        Perhaps find a wide range of medical articles…

        Read them - (you could have your own "checklist" highlighting the key points that make great content) and you'll soon realise which ones are good.

        Marie, with respect you do need expert to help you with your English (it'll make writing much easier for you).

        It's 100,000 better than my Spanish, or whatever your native language is.

        But English is hellishly difficult to write, and your word choices and grammar do need improving.


        Steve


        P.S. While you are polishing up your English - you could consider starting your writing career in your own language, gain the experience, build up the clients and create the income.
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        • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
          Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

          I'm not an article writer so I don't have any examples.

          Perhaps find a wide range of medical articles...

          Read them - (you could have your own "checklist" highlighting the key points that make great content) and you'll soon realise which ones are good.

          Marie, with respect you do need expert to help you with your English (it'll make writing much easier for you).

          It's 100,000 better than my Spanish, or whatever your native language is.

          But English is hellishly difficult to write, and your word choices and grammar do need improving.


          Steve


          P.S. While you are polishing up your English - you could consider starting your writing career in your own language, gain the experience, build up the clients and create the income.
          Can you be more specific steve. What sentences do you think need improving. So that I can focus on that problem.
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  • I nearly and probably should have suggested she gets someone to check her English.

    My thought was she may be writing in her native language.

    If she is writing in English (it could take years to master) and she might be determined to be a writer before she "gets" all the nuances and grammar, so yes get it checked by an article/copywriting expert.


    Steve
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  • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
    How does it take months to write an article? At that point, overthinking everything will make everything worse.
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post

      How does it take months to write an article? At that point, overthinking everything will make everything worse.
      Yes, I agree. Thats the whole problem. I dont get things done. I should probably write, post and then learn from my mistakes. Im just afraid that I will set a statement with my first articles and based on that people will or will not comeback.
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  • Profile picture of the author enjamulahsan
    Banned
    where you do write your articles? i am thinking about writing articles on ezine.
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by enjamulahsan View Post

      where you do write your articles? i am thinking about writing articles on ezine.

      Im going to start my own website.
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  • If I correct a few sentences, it won't turn you into an English expert.

    You need somebody you can show ALL your work to - and they can explain and adjust any errors.


    Steve
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      If I correct a few sentences, it won't turn you into an English expert.

      You need somebody you can show ALL your work to - and they can explain and adjust any errors.


      Steve
      Yes ofcourse, but just to get an idea about what you mean.
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      Marie,

      You may already have seen it.

      If not have a good read.

      http://www.warriorforum.com/copywrit...e-grammar.html


      Steve

      Steve, thanks I have seen it. I don't completely agree with you. But thanks for your effort.

      It would be more helpful if people would be more specific when they give critics. It demotivates when you just say you schould do something about your english. You have to understand that to take a step to see yourself as a writer is not easy.
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      • Profile picture of the author angiecolee
        Originally Posted by Maria1986 View Post

        Steve, thanks I have seen it. I don't completely agree with you. But thanks for your effort.

        It would be more helpful if people would be more specific when they give critics. It demotivates when you just say you schould do something about your english. You have to understand that to take a step to see yourself as a writer is not easy.
        This post is the entirety of your problem.

        You're asking for advice. You don't like what you're hearing. So you disregard and ask for different advice.

        You don't get to dictate the advice of people helping you for free, out of the kindness of their hearts. Hell, I can't think of any situation where you dictate advice unless you're the one giving the advice.

        Newbs reading, pay attention:

        We can't teach you a damn thing if you already know it all.

        OP: I get it. You're young. You're learning. You're not a native speaker.

        But you're also arguing with pros over the definitions of words.

        Let me tell ya - I get paid to do this for a living. I'm pretty sure I know what perfectionism means without having to Google it. That is EXACTLY why the posters above keep recommending English mastery.

        In one thread, you've contradicted yourself multiple times, argued with the people you're seeking advice from, and demanded different advice that aligns more easily with whatever ideas you've already got running through your head. And also that pro writers help you with your English (tutors, proofreaders, etc...they get paid for that kind of thing - if you're not willing to save up, then you have to find your own way to fluency by practicing).

        That's mighty forward for someone who's admittedly new...to know so much already.
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        • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
          Originally Posted by angiecolee View Post

          This post is the entirety of your problem.

          You're asking for advice. You don't like what you're hearing. So you disregard and ask for different advice.

          You don't get to dictate the advice of people helping you for free, out of the kindness of their hearts. Hell, I can't think of any situation where you dictate advice unless you're the one giving the advice.

          Newbs reading, pay attention:

          We can't teach you a damn thing if you already know it all.

          OP: I get it. You're young. You're learning. You're not a native speaker.

          But you're also arguing with pros over the definitions of words.

          Let me tell ya - I get paid to do this for a living. I'm pretty sure I know what perfectionism means without having to Google it. That is EXACTLY why the posters above keep recommending English mastery.

          In one thread, you've contradicted yourself multiple times, argued with the people you're seeking advice from, and demanded different advice that aligns more easily with whatever ideas you've already got running through your head. And also that pro writers help you with your English (tutors, proofreaders, etc...they get paid for that kind of thing - if you're not willing to save up, then you have to find your own way to fluency by practicing).

          That's mighty forward for someone who's admittedly new...to know so much already.
          Thank you for your feedback.

          Like I said in different posts. I am thankful for all the advice. But I don't need advice without something I can work with. That doesn't get anyone anywhere. Than, I would rather, indeed, not have it. But with all do respect. All the people in this topic have been very kind to give me great advice, which I am grateful for.

          Why can't we argue and disagree about feedback? Isn't that the way we learn? Do you want me to just accept, shut my mouth, and say thank you. That is not the way it works for me. I have to be able to understand what you mean.

          Let me give you an example. Cali, told me about my posts lacking apostrophes. That's something I am now trying to enhance. It is something I can do something about. If you tell me, Maria, your writing suck bigtime, that would be just nasty and demotivating. Do you understand my point of view?
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          • Profile picture of the author angiecolee
            Originally Posted by Maria1986 View Post

            Thank you for your feedback.

            Like I said in different posts. I am thankful for all the advice. But I don't need advice without something I can work with. That doesn't get anyone anywhere. Than, I would rather, indeed, not have it. But with all do respect. All the people in this topic have been very kind to give me great advice, which I am grateful for.

            Why can't we argue and disagree about feedback? Isn't that the way we learn? Do you want me to just accept, shut my mouth, and say thank you. That is not the way it works for me. I have to be able to understand what you mean.

            Let me give you an example. Cali, told me about my posts lacking apostrophes. That's something I am now trying to enhance. It is something I can do something about. If you tell me, Maria, your writing suck bigtime, that would be just nasty and demotivating. Do you understand my point of view?
            Because if the feedback doesn't suit you, you can simply move on.

            A word of advice, woman to woman: if you don't get a thicker skin, your career is going to be over before it even starts.

            People who create? Our work is ripped all the time. By people that pay us. By people that don't. By people who can't and never will be able to understand the effort involved.

            Your job as a writer is to know which advice/criticism to take in order to better your work.

            Discard everything else.

            Otherwise, I'm afraid you're going to live a life of hurt feelings. You'll stew and the person you're angry with will have moved on completely. Tell me who's really hurting in that situation?
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            • Profile picture of the author Cali16
              Maria, any time you ask for feedback, you make yourself vulnerable. But that's how you learn.

              Angie and Steve have given you some excellent advice. I recommend reading their posts again. But the second time around, focus on the wisdom in their words (there's a lot!) and let any perceived insults slide. I also challenge you to be a bit more open to constructive criticism, even when you don't like what you hear.

              Sometimes the feedback that touches a nerve is what we need to hear the most.
              Signature
              If you don't face your fears, the only thing you'll ever see is what's in your comfort zone. ~Anne McClain, astronaut
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            • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
              Originally Posted by angiecolee View Post

              Because if the feedback doesn't suit you, you can simply move on.

              A word of advice, woman to woman: if you don't get a thicker skin, your career is going to be over before it even starts.

              People who create? Our work is ripped all the time. By people that pay us. By people that don't. By people who can't and never will be able to understand the effort involved.

              Your job as a writer is to know which advice/criticism to take in order to better your work.

              Discard everything else.

              Otherwise, I'm afraid you're going to live a life of hurt feelings. You'll stew and the person you're angry with will have moved on completely. Tell me who's really hurting in that situation?

              Thank you Angiecolee.
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            • Profile picture of the author marleymae
              Originally Posted by angiecolee View Post

              Because if the feedback doesn't suit you, you can simply move on.

              A word of advice, woman to woman: if you don't get a thicker skin, your career is going to be over before it even starts.

              People who create? Our work is ripped all the time. By people that pay us. By people that don't. By people who can't and never will be able to understand the effort involved.

              Your job as a writer is to know which advice/criticism to take in order to better your work.

              Discard everything else.

              Otherwise, I'm afraid you're going to live a life of hurt feelings. You'll stew and the person you're angry with will have moved on completely. Tell me who's really hurting in that situation?
              This is excellent advice and no one is attacking you. You asked for advice and people gave it to you.

              You can't only expect to hear good things that will stroke your ego. True advice comes with the good and the bad. The only way to grow is to be able to effectively take constructive criticism and turn it into a positive learning experience.

              You are writing for the medical niche and if you're using poor grammar, your target audience will immediately be turned off. Your goal is to keep people reading and poor grammar will immediately cause you to lose credibility.
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  • Try this -

    "The Elements of Style" - William Strunk & EB White (get it on amazon).

    It's considered by most to be the definitive guide to english word structure and grammar.


    Steve
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    • Profile picture of the author Cali16
      Originally Posted by Maria1986 View Post

      The apostrophes is purely because im writing fast trhoughout my job. It's not that I don't know how they work. Anything else? Word choice? Or my sentences?
      First, you say your errors (at least the specific one I pointed out) are merely "because I'm writing fast". How is anyone here supposed to know which of the numerous errors you've made throughout your posts are because you're at work and "writing fast", or due to weaknesses in your writing skills or grasp of English? (That's a rhetorical question, btw.)

      Second, critiquing a handful of short posts in this thread isn't going to help you. As Steve mentioned earlier, you really need to have someone review all your work rather than just a few sentences on a forum.

      Also, an article (or eBook, sales page, etc.) involves far more than decent grammar, punctuation, and syntax in order to keep readers engaged. Sadly, many freelance writers fail miserably when it comes to making a piece of content flow well and be interesting from beginning to end. That's a skill that goes far beyond understanding the rules of any language. It's also what sets talented / skilled professional writers apart from the myriad dime-a-dozen freelancers, bloggers, etc. who fancy themselves "writers" simply because they produce mediocre to downright awful content in one form or another.

      One of the best things you can do is get a few articles written first. Then hire someone to critique them who 1) is a native English speaker and 2) actually knows something about writing professionally.

      And spend some time using the resources Steve has graciously recommended.

      However, if you still haven't finished your first article after working on it for several months, neither inspiration nor feedback on your writing skills is what you need at this point. If you can't finish something because you're never satisfied, the rest is moot.
      Signature
      If you don't face your fears, the only thing you'll ever see is what's in your comfort zone. ~Anne McClain, astronaut
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      • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
        Originally Posted by Cali16 View Post

        First, you say your errors (at least the specific one I pointed out) are merely "because I'm writing fast". How is anyone here supposed to know which of the numerous errors you've made throughout your posts are because you're at work and "writing fast", or due to weaknesses in your writing skills or grasp of English? (That's a rhetorical question, btw.)

        Second, critiquing a handful of short posts in this thread isn't going to help you. As Steve mentioned earlier, you really need to have someone review all your work rather than just a few sentences on a forum.

        Also, an article (or eBook, sales page, etc.) involves far more than decent grammar, punctuation, and syntax in order to keep readers engaged. Sadly, many freelance writers fail miserably when it comes to making a piece of content flow well and be interesting from beginning to end. That's a skill that goes farbeyond understanding the rules of any language. It's also what sets talented / skilled professional writers apart from the myriad dime-a-dozen freelancers, bloggers, etc. who fancy themselves "writers" simply because they produce mediocre to downright awful content in one form or another.

        One of the best things you can do is get a few articles written first. Then hire someone to critique them who 1) is a native English speaker and 2) actually knows something about writing professionally.

        And spend some time using the resources Steve has graciously recommended.

        However, if you still haven't finished your first article after working on it for several months, neither inspiration nor feedback on your writing skills is what you need at this point. If you can't finish something because you're never satisfied, the rest is moot.
        Thank you for your reply.
        No, you are totally right, you can't know what the reason is why I make certain mistakes. But now that I've told you, I hoped you would be more specific about my mistakes, so that I can understand what I am doing wrong. (You already have, thank you).
        I am totally accepting and are grateful for everyones critic and contribution to my topic. But it does not mean that I have to agree with everything. Sometimes someone needs more information to work with the feedback.

        And what you state in this reply above about being a writer, it takes more than just grammar etc, ofcourse. I never disagreed with that. But I wouldn't want people leaving my posts because of language mistakes. That makes me look unprofessional. I wouldn't want to invest a lot of time and effort in something with garbage quality.

        I am willing to learn and accept feedback. Don't be upset if I start asking questions about your feedback. I just want to have more clarity about it.

        I want to start writing good, excellent, marvelous copy. And I will ask good writers to look at my language mistakes. I believe that a good writer writes from his/her heart. And that indeed, it is not something everyone can do. But great writers, also failed and got back up again.
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      Try this -

      "The Elements of Style" - William Strunk & EB White (get it on amazon).

      It's considered by most to be the definitive guide to english word structure and grammar.


      Steve
      Thank you, I am going to look into it.
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  • There's a fast track way to help her.

    If she looks up the word "petulant" and promises to stop acting like it…

    She'll start making lots of progress.


    Steve
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      There's a fast track way to help her.

      If she looks up the word "petulant" and promises to stop acting like it…

      She'll start making lots of progress.


      Steve
      Now it's not about giving advice anymore, but insulting people that don't completely agree with you. It doesn't make you any better than that word you just mentioned.

      Thank you for all your contributions Steve, but I find this very impolite. Maybe you can work on that part of your personality.
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  • Maria,

    If people completed agreed with all I said I would be living in wanton luxury in my south sea island paradise.

    And this evening on my lear jet I would be flying out - directly to you - 3 English scholars, 2 A level copywriters and and a dozen of the internets top article writers to give you every assistance with your writing.

    Sadly though, not everyone agrees with my sage and wise words.

    So I'll have to leave you to vigorously debate the wonders and perfectionalization of english grammar, typographical errors (and whether the "speedy" omissions of apostrophes is acceptable or not) together with the correct word placement in article writing.

    And the pro's and con's of asking for critiques. And how best to analyse all the answers.

    And I'll do as you suggest and work feverishly to create the personality you wish for.

    And do all I can to improve my etiquette and manners.

    Perhaps you might consider just a slight adjustment in your attitude?

    Then I am sure we could get on famously.

    In the meantime I wish you well.

    Lots of Love,


    Steve xx


    P.S. Note to self - "perfectionalization" is not a proper word nor is it likely to be grammatically correct - but I think it's quite good. Must use it in a future epic masterpiece.

    P.P.S. Steve?…What now?...Maria is extremely unlikely to - in anyway - grasp your sense of humour (nothing to do with native languages she's just way too serious and a touch uptight) Proving as many suggest - don't use humour in copy.

    I know, I know but I just can't help myself. Maybe she might lighten up. And let herself have a bit of fun.
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      Maria,

      If people completed agreed with all I said I would be living in wanton luxury in my south sea island paradise.

      And this evening on my lear jet I would be flying out - directly to you 3 English scholars, 2 A level copywriters and and a dozen of the internets top article writers to give you every assistance with your writing.

      Sadly though, not everyone agrees with my sage and wise words.

      So I'll leave you to debate the wonders of article writing.

      And I'll do as you suggest and work feverishly to create the personality you wish for.

      And do all I can to improve my etiquette and manners.

      Perhaps you might consider just a slight adjustment to your attitude?

      Then I am sure we could get on famously.

      In the meantime I wish you well.

      Lots of Love,


      Steve xx
      Insulting people, calling them names, while they are just trying figure out the meaning of certain advices, can really be hurtful. I hope you understand the impact of certain words you use which you call your wisdom and sage. Goodluck.

      All the best for you too.
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      • Originally Posted by Maria1986 View Post

        Insulting people, calling them names, while they are just trying figure out the meaning of certain advices, can really be hurtful. I hope you understand the impact of certain words you use which you call your wisdom and sage. Goodluck.

        All the best for you too.
        Words do have impact.

        But they are subjective.

        Can you see how easy it is to misunderstand words and phrases?


        Even if you speak English it is very difficult to write it well.

        So, if it is not your native language it really will be beneficial to get all the help you can from an expert.

        Rather than battling on by yourself and trying to get a bit of advice with a few sentences.

        Because how will you cope with the next sentence?

        Btw If I upset you I do apologise.



        Steve
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        • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
          Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

          Words do have impact.

          But they are subjective.

          Can you see how easy it is to misunderstand words and phrases?


          Even if you speak English it is very difficult to write it well.

          So, if it is not your native language it really will be beneficial to get all the help you can from an expert.

          Rather than battling on by yourself and trying to get a bit of advice with a few sentences.

          Because how will you cope with the next sentence?

          Btw If I upset you I do apologise.



          Steve
          Thank you steve, I appreciate and accept your apology. I understand your point. I am the biggest critic of myself. My own worst enemy. It has been 2 years since I started a website and I haven't posted a single article yet, because of my insecurity. Now I finally decided to just do it. So I am trying to pick my balls up and just start. I understand that my writing won't be perfect. But I hope to learn along the way and get better and better at it through time. Hopefully with some help from good english writers. Unfortunately I don't have the means to pay someone at this point. So I have to figure out how to do this the best way.


          Thanks again for your advices.
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  • Profile picture of the author gjabiz
    Originally Posted by Maria1986 View Post

    Hi,

    Im a new writer, still working on my first article now for a few months. Its very hard to be satisfied with my writing since Im a perfectionist and wont be satisfied easily. So im hoping to find some inspiration on this forum.

    Im writing medical articles with content about different diseases.

    I would like to know of you can share any tips that I can use to write good medical content.

    Thank you, Maria
    Medical CONTENT takes three basic forms.

    Peer to peer, as you will find in medical journals and often from drug manufactures to doctors (very lucrative writing), this is a specialized writing form which is mostly outside the normal realm of the freelance copywriter.

    Medical information intended for the public. In this case your job is to minimize the lingo and lay things out, often in a 1, 2 and 3 manor.

    Medical "copy", which is seen in the promotions of many supplement promotions...and often used as support evidence.

    Accuracy is certainly a requirement for medical writing, however, perfectionism can be had cheaply via a skilled proof reader.

    For 20 years I had a great proofer, then she passed away, and today I use a young woman with her degree in Creative Writing, an English major.

    IF I were involved in medical writing, I'd search high and low for a good proof reader who can worry about the grammar, apostrophes, ellipses ... and so on.

    Cheap commodities. But writing for money, and I've been doing it for 40 years, seldom requires months and perfection...it does, however, require...

    writing.

    Good luck.

    gjabiz
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  • Marie,

    If you have the determination, then of course just get on with it.

    One thing you can do on your website is just say that English is not your native language. But you are trying your best.

    Readers should then understand that your words won't always be perfect.

    It often helps build affinity with your audience by admitting to a "flaw"

    Rather than trying to wing it * and hope that nobody notices.


    Steve


    P.S. * you might not get a clear definition for "wing it" basically it means to pretend or carry on blindly - best NOT to do that.
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      Marie,

      If you have the determination, then of course just get on with it.

      One thing you can do on your website is just say that English is not your native language. But you are trying your best.

      Readers should then understand that your words won't always be perfect.

      It often helps build affinity with your audience by admitting to a "flaw"

      Rather than trying to wing it * and hope that nobody notices.


      Steve


      P.S. * you might not get a clear definition for "wing it" basically it means to pretend or carry on blindly - best NOT to do that.

      Yes, I have the determination and will carry on. I once saw a website (ww.2knowmyself.com) of a non-native english article writer who made millions with his books and articles. I noticed a lot of mistakes regarding his english. But I guess his audience weren't bothered by it so much. Have a look and tell me what you think about it.
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    • Profile picture of the author angiecolee
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      Marie,

      If you have the determination, then of course just get on with it.

      One thing you can do on your website is just say that English is not your native language. But you are trying your best.

      Readers should then understand that your words won't always be perfect.

      It often helps build affinity with your audience by admitting to a "flaw"

      Rather than trying to wing it * and hope that nobody notices.


      Steve


      P.S. * you might not get a clear definition for "wing it" basically it means to pretend or carry on blindly - best NOT to do that.
      Best advice so far. Imperfect action trumps perfect inaction every single time.

      That other guy built an empire because he put himself out there even if it wasn't quite perfect.

      Take the next step. It's scary because you can't see the top of the staircase. But trust me - take the step (by putting your work out there and learning as you go).

      If you constantly take the next step instead of standing at the bottom wondering where the staircase leads, eventually you'll wind up on the next floor.
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  • I can see it's a self help site and yes there is a huge market.

    As you said it doesn't seem matter if the English isn't perfect.

    So, get typing and launch your internet empire.


    Steve
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  • Thing is, we are primed to expect ACTION STATIONS, as if the world were already formed as an eternally spinnin' balla beauty.

    An' mebbe because we now can see our home from alla the product of the Moon's adventurously advantaged reference point, we imagine ourselves to be hoverin' in undiminishingly perpetual air.

    We are wings, an' we are landings — flight gonna settle down an' walk a while.

    Gotta be a winger a-thinger over a walker kinda stalker.

    I am sayin' this cos summa our history's coolest catalytic volatileers of Onno couldn't spell to save their own pants.

    Agreed: grammar is kinda a stickler for a wordsmith, but all things transformatively felafocal gonna find their vocal or we are merely witnesses to some elsewhere kinda propulsed smackdown miasa.

    (I know, as writers, we are supposed to kill our darlings, but I am happy to release that last line into the world an' have it tattooed 'pon my leathery tittoes in the dungeon of any an' all future entrappo.)
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  • Disclaimer Alert

    Before reading this - it is the opposite of the usual "think positive" attitudes.


    So...

    We tend not to take any action because we have a huge fear of failure.

    (Oh, the humiliation what will people think? …err 99.979% don't care)

    With over one billion active websites what do you think the chances of success are?

    (even if you had perfect English and endless money to promote it - others have always got more. And your copy and products are exceptionally good - others are better)

    So why on earth worry about failing.

    Do EVERYTHING you can to make your site work.

    Sit back.

    And hope for the best.


    Steve


    P.S. Steve? when all is said and done are you suggesting "hope" is all we really have?

    Yes.

    Why?

    Because it NEVER lets you down.
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by Steve The Copywriter View Post

      Disclaimer Alert

      Before reading this - it is the opposite of the usual "think positive" attitudes.


      So...

      We tend not to take any action because we have a huge fear of failure.

      (Oh, the humiliation what will people think? ...err 99.979% don't care)

      With over one billion active websites what do you think the chances of success are?

      (even if you had perfect English and endless money to promote it - others have always got more. And your copy and products are exceptionally good - others are better)

      So why on earth worry about failing.

      Do EVERYTHING you can to make your site work.

      Sit back.

      And hope for the best.


      Steve


      P.S. Steve? when all is said and done are you suggesting "hope" is all we really have?

      Yes.

      Why?

      Because it NEVER lets you down.
      So hope is the answer, and a lot of hard work.
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  • Profile picture of the author Anuraggupta2015
    Hello i want to some suggestion from u for my small sister she is recently complete MA from English subject and she want to build him career in content writing but she don`t know how is possible friends if you any suggestion then please reply on this post
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  • Profile picture of the author nsserve
    Do your best and remember nothing is perfect. If you seek perfection, you will hardly put any work ahead.
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  • Profile picture of the author niksto82
    Try by reading some books in English. It will help you with all sorts of stuff. Also, it is a good opportunity to learn new words.
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  • Profile picture of the author cyberdenizen
    Originally Posted by Maria1986 View Post

    Hi,

    Im a new writer, still working on my first article now for a few months. Its very hard to be satisfied with my writing since Im a perfectionist and wont be satisfied easily. So im hoping to find some inspiration on this forum.

    Im writing medical articles with content about different diseases.

    I would like to know of you can share any tips that I can use to write good medical content.

    Thank you, Maria
    I was just like you when I was starting out. It took me days to write a 450-word article, and still, I made mistakes! Up to now, I'm a recovering perfectionist and overthinker. But I became a more productive writer when I learned that writing has two phases: the creative phase and the editing phase.

    When you're in the creative phase, write as fast as you can. The goal is just to get your ideas out. It's pretty much like throwing up. Just let it all out. The perfectionist in you might throw a fit, but remind her of what the great Ernest Hemingway once said, "The first draft of anything is s**t."

    When you're in the editing phase, you clean up your writing. You make sure that there are no grammatical and spelling errors. You double-check the facts. You rewrite sentences that are awkward. And so on.

    Author C.J. Cherryh also said, "It is perfectly okay to write garbage--as long as you edit brilliantly." Just don't overdo it or obsess on insignificant details.

    And speaking of Hemingway, there's an web-based app named after him, the Hemingway Editor. It's not perfect, but I like it. You might find it helpful.

    Good luck!
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  • Profile picture of the author anwar001
    Since you will be writing in medical/health niche, try your best to provide useful, accurate information based on lot of research. If you can do that then you probably won't have to worry too much about minor flaws in your language. After all if readers can understand what you are trying to say and they are getting good quality information then they can certainly overlook minor grammar mistakes.

    And also remember that not all of your readers will be from USA, UK or English speaking countries. Many of them might be from India, Philippines, Middle East or other places. So don't need to worry too much about it.

    Suppose there is a doctor who is an expert in his field. Will people stop going to him just because his English is not perfect? I don't think so.
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  • Profile picture of the author Hubertissick
    You can use article sites for best articles.
    You can rewrite these articles into unique one. It'll bring experience.
    You can post your articles on high traffic sites for getting best results.
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  • Profile picture of the author MikeClaridge
    There's a quote that really helped me when I was just starting out. I'll copy it here because I think it's perfect, and I'll likely butcher it if I try to recreate it myself.

    "Nobody tells this to people who are beginners, I wish someone told me...

    All of us who do creative work, we get into it because we have good taste. But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, it’s just not that good. It’s trying to be good, it has potential, but it’s not. But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still killer. And your taste is why your work disappoints you.*

    A lot of people never get past this phase, they quit. Most people I know who do interesting, creative work went through years of this. We know our work doesn’t have this special thing that we want it to have. We all go through this.*

    And if you are just starting out or you are still in this phase, you gotta know its normal and the most important thing you can do is do a lot of work. Put yourself on a deadline so that every week you will finish one story. It is only by going through a volume of work that you will close that gap, and your work will be as good as your ambitions. And I took longer to figure out how to do this than anyone I’ve ever met.*

    It’s gonna take awhile. It’s normal to take awhile. You’ve just gotta fight your way through." - Ira Glass
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    • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
      Originally Posted by MikeClaridge View Post

      There's a quote that really helped me when I was just starting out. I'll copy it here because I think it's perfect, and I'll likely butcher it if I try to recreate it myself.

      "Nobody tells this to people who are beginners, I wish someone told me...

      All of us who do creative work, we get into it because we have good taste. But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, it's just not that good. It's trying to be good, it has potential, but it's not. But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still killer. And your taste is why your work disappoints you.*

      A lot of people never get past this phase, they quit. Most people I know who do interesting, creative work went through years of this. We know our work doesn't have this special thing that we want it to have. We all go through this.*

      And if you are just starting out or you are still in this phase, you gotta know its normal and the most important thing you can do is do a lot of work. Put yourself on a deadline so that every week you will finish one story. It is only by going through a volume of work that you will close that gap, and your work will be as good as your ambitions. And I took longer to figure out how to do this than anyone I've ever met.*

      It's gonna take awhile. It's normal to take awhile. You've just gotta fight your way through." - Ira Glass

      GREAT quote! The trouble is, it's VERY hard finding work when you're starting off as a copywriter. I've gone through the threads, but it's still EXTREMELY challenging to find somebody willing to pay me money as I cannot prove that my copy leads to sales, since I have some spec work and some work I just completed for my first clients, but still no actual proven results.

      Everyone seems to want an online portfolio with fully designed work (I'm no designer, I only type the copy in Word!) and stats that prove your copy leads to sales.

      If you were in my position, what EXACTLY would you do? I've asked so many people and looked at so many threads, but I'm still struggling immensely to even get my shoe in the door.
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      • Profile picture of the author angiecolee
        Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post

        GREAT quote! The trouble is, it's VERY hard finding work when you're starting off as a copywriter. I've gone through the threads, but it's still EXTREMELY challenging to find somebody willing to pay me money as I cannot prove that my copy leads to sales, since I have some spec work and some work I just completed for my first clients, but still no actual proven results.

        Everyone seems to want an online portfolio with fully designed work (I'm no designer, I only type the copy in Word!) and stats that prove your copy leads to sales.

        If you were in my position, what EXACTLY would you do? I've asked so many people and looked at so many threads, but I'm still struggling immensely to even get my shoe in the door.
        Your problem is between your ears, not out there in the world.

        Are you telling me you've ONLY looked for opportunities HERE? This place, by and large, is swimming with people who don't know good copy from their own asses.

        What this tells me (this being you asking the same question over and over again, yet still somehow not getting answers) is that you are not very good at research, which is a pretty critical skill for a copywriter.

        You've told yourself it's hard, so it is.

        You've limited yourself to one pond, so these waters are all you know.

        There is NO one way to succeed at this. What worked for someone else may not work for you. There are a hundred different ways something could succeed or fail out there in the real world - your job is not to AVOID them (because that's pretty much impossible), it's to try something and either watch it succeed or find out WHY it failed and WHAT you can do differently.

        This again, goes back to research.

        Screw results right now, man. You need to figure out how to find what people want so you can actually OFFER it to them. It's as simple and as hard as that.
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        • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
          I have NOT only looked for opportunities here. I'm also reaching out to local non-profits, the Cult of Copy Facebook group, and even looking for graphic designers to partner with!

          It's just I have trouble when it comes to reaching out to people. As somebody who hates cold calling and meetings, it's a real struggle.

          It's very hard for me to even get in the door at a local non-profit whose website is the worst I've ever seen.

          I've rewritten their landing page, simply as a way to get myself in the door, and they're telling me it's fine and now they won't even return my emails or phone calls. I guess they took offense to my opinion of their website.

          I've also reached out to just about every ad looking for freelance copywriter on Craigslist and various other boards. They either pay pennies or request to see my portfolio, which I lack as I've barely gotten ANY work yet. Word docs only go so far when the work is unpublished, the people I've reached out to want to see PUBLISHED work in a final DESIGNED format.

          I've reached out left and right and making pennies here. I gave up on Upwork as clients typically want low-pay workers, and I just won't stand for it.
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          • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
            And before you ask, I have work on spec, but they usually request published work and don't take spec work seriously, especially as I don't do any designing.
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          • Profile picture of the author angiecolee
            Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post

            I have NOT only looked for opportunities here. I'm also reaching out to local non-profits, the Cult of Copy Facebook group, and even looking for graphic designers to partner with!

            It's just I have trouble when it comes to reaching out to people. As somebody who hates cold calling and meetings, it's a real struggle.

            It's very hard for me to even get in the door at a local non-profit whose website is the worst I've ever seen.

            I've rewritten their landing page, simply as a way to get myself in the door, and they're telling me it's fine and now they won't even return my emails or phone calls. I guess they took offense to my opinion of their website.

            I've also reached out to just about every ad looking for freelance copywriter on Craigslist and various other boards. They either pay pennies or request to see my portfolio, which I lack as I've barely gotten ANY work yet. Word docs only go so far when the work is unpublished, the people I've reached out to want to see PUBLISHED work in a final DESIGNED format.

            I've reached out left and right and making pennies here. I gave up on Upwork as clients typically want low-pay workers, and I just won't stand for it.
            OK, I think you're missing my point.

            Your problem is between your ears. Meaning it's your brain that's causing the problems here.

            EVERYONE starts from zero experience. EVERYONE.

            No matter what you're trying, if you're starting out you've got something in common with everyone who's ever made it. You are starting at square one.

            Clients? They smell desperation. They smell frustration. They smell anxiety.

            Like SHARKS.

            You are literally, with your approach, attracting bottom of the barrel. It's who you're targeting, it's who you're seeking approval from, and it's who you're bringing in with your gravitational pull.

            If you can solve my problem, I don't give a SHIT what your past results are. You've got a solution that I need and I desperately want my pain to go away. Shut up and take my money.

            Let me put this into context:

            You sell insurance. I need car insurance.

            Even if your only differentiator is that you have the lowest price, eventually you're going to sell something to someone, and it really doesn't matter whether you've sold someone car insurance before. You have something I need. I might as well buy it from YOU.

            How do you insert yourself into that process as more than just a number runner? How do you solve my UNIQUE problems with needing a car insurance. Have you looked into my past and spotted something about my driving habits or my car that I'm unaware of? Can you break down complexities and help me understand something that I may be doing to inadvertently shoot myself in the foot?

            Here's where I talk about research being sorely lacking.

            You are the expert in this scenario.

            You're positioning yourself as the crappy new writer who needs someone's validation.

            Why are you the expert? What past experience do you have to draw on? What unique perspective do you bring to the table (hint: it's not price)? What do people who have worked with you in the past say about working with you (read: not just writing, but all kinds of employment and volunteer experience applies here).

            Stop thinking so linearly and start making connections and SOLVING PROBLEMS.
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            • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
              Originally Posted by angiecolee View Post

              OK, I think you're missing my point.

              Your problem is between your ears. Meaning it's your brain that's causing the problems here.

              EVERYONE starts from zero experience. EVERYONE.

              No matter what you're trying, if you're starting out you've got something in common with everyone who's ever made it. You are starting at square one.

              Clients? They smell desperation. They smell frustration. They smell anxiety.

              Like SHARKS.

              You are literally, with your approach, attracting bottom of the barrel. It's who you're targeting, it's who you're seeking approval from, and it's who you're bringing in with your gravitational pull.

              If you can solve my problem, I don't give a SHIT what your past results are. You've got a solution that I need and I desperately want my pain to go away. Shut up and take my money.

              Let me put this into context:

              You sell insurance. I need car insurance.

              Even if your only differentiator is that you have the lowest price, eventually you're going to sell something to someone, and it really doesn't matter whether you've sold someone car insurance before. You have something I need. I might as well buy it from YOU.

              How do you insert yourself into that process as more than just a number runner? How do you solve my UNIQUE problems with needing a car insurance. Have you looked into my past and spotted something about my driving habits or my car that I'm unaware of? Can you break down complexities and help me understand something that I may be doing to inadvertently shoot myself in the foot?

              Here's where I talk about research being sorely lacking.

              You are the expert in this scenario.

              You're positioning yourself as the crappy new writer who needs someone's validation.

              Why are you the expert? What past experience do you have to draw on? What unique perspective do you bring to the table (hint: it's not price)? What do people who have worked with you in the past say about working with you (read: not just writing, but all kinds of employment and volunteer experience applies here).

              Stop thinking so linearly and start making connections and SOLVING PROBLEMS.

              Thanks Angie! I needed this kick in the pants! I've been doing a lot of different things and you're absolutely right. Sometimes the less experienced person still knows what's up and may charge less, which is what I do.

              I've emailed some local nonprofits whose websites are, to be frank, quite lacking. By making minimal changes, I can easily increase volunteer interest and donations.

              One of their websites didn't even mention what they did?

              Why would I donate to you, if I don't even know what you do?

              I emailed them yesterday and so far, I've gotten no response.

              If I don't hear from them by next week, I'll put my money where my mouth is and just rewrite their home page and send it over. Hopefully, that will generate some interest.

              Worst case scenario, that's just more copy experience and something I can save for my portfolio.

              I also reached out to a graphic design Facebook group and generated interest in a partnership from a graphic designer in Australia. I give her copy as a service, which she then offers clients. She pays me for copy, then her clients pay her back for that copy. It's a win-win. Basically free copy for her!
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              • Profile picture of the author ewenmack
                Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post

                I emailed them yesterday and so far, I've gotten no response.

                If I don't hear from them by next week, I'll put my money where my mouth is and just rewrite their home page and send it over. Hopefully, that will generate some interest.
                This is your BIG problem.

                You are just sending information,
                not firing up desire.

                Plus, are you sure you are sending your email to the right person?

                Most people think they are, when they are not.

                First step should be ask who is the right person you should be sending your intrigue
                so you can confirm the right person gets your intrigue message.

                No wonder you are getting ignored!

                Best,
                Doctor E. Vile
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                • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
                  I know I am sending my emails to the proper person. I use various resources to determine who is the owner and who ha does marketing. I then target whoever would be the best fit.

                  That said, I'm absutely sure my approach was wrong. But just telling them I can hp and by giving them a price point, I'm not sparking a desire. Any person can say they can improve their site, but by actually rewriting part of it, I can help set the wheel of desire in motion.
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                  • Profile picture of the author ewenmack
                    Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post

                    I know I am sending my emails to the proper person. I use various resources to determine who is the owner and who ha does marketing. I then target whoever would be the best fit.

                    That said, I'm absutely sure my approach was wrong. But just telling them I can hp and by giving them a price point, I'm not sparking a desire. Any person can say they can improve their site, but by actually rewriting part of it, I can help set the wheel of desire in motion.
                    Um NO, you haven't got confirmation of the right person,
                    that comes from them.

                    The responder tells you who it is.

                    You get passed onto that person and you ask this person
                    if he/she is the right person.

                    Double confirmation on their end.

                    That's what I meant by most people think they are talking with the right person
                    but it's not double confirmed.

                    "by actually rewriting part of it, I can help set the wheel of desire in motion."
                    is a very weak approach.

                    By using teaser copy at the beginning to create intrigue and desire,
                    that's how you can get paid up front and get the deal.

                    Can you give samples on what teaser copy would look like in first approach email
                    after you have confirmation of the right person?

                    This will gauge where the gap is, if at all.

                    Best,
                    Doctor E. Vile
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                    • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
                      What do you mean by "teaser copy"? Is that basically some sample copy written for them?
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                      • Profile picture of the author ewenmack
                        Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post

                        What do you mean by "teaser copy"? Is that basically some sample copy written for them?
                        I told you great teaser copy makes it so you don't have to
                        do sample work.

                        Think of a woman...she teases you with the right amount of
                        hint of skin...the aroma of her perfume...the way she looks at you.

                        You are seduced.

                        That link you asked me to send you of the ad I wrote
                        for the web design service.

                        That was all tease.

                        One reader commented he wanted to ask me which was the
                        winner. I seduced him.

                        Best,
                        Doctor E. Vile
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                        • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
                          Originally Posted by ewenmack View Post

                          I told you great teaser copy makes it so you don't have to
                          do sample work.

                          Think of a woman...she teases you with the right amount of
                          hint of skin...the aroma of her perfume...the way she looks at you.

                          You are seduced.

                          That link you asked me to send you of the ad I wrote
                          for the web design service.

                          That was all tease.

                          One reader commented he wanted to ask me which was the
                          winner. I seduced him.

                          Best,
                          Doctor E. Vile
                          I don't recall any link you sent. Would you be willing to resend it, so that I can see a great example? If you do, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks!
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                          • Profile picture of the author ewenmack
                            Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post

                            I don't recall any link you sent. Would you be willing to resend it, so that I can see a great example? If you do, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks!
                            You know, you make it difficult for people to help you,
                            not only did I post it in your thread after you asked for it and said you'd be most grateful,
                            now you tell me you haven't read it? There seems a pig headiness about your responses that turns off those that are capable of helping you.

                            This time you are going to have to hunt for it
                            so the pain and reward gap is widened.

                            Best,
                            Doctor E. Vile
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                            • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
                              Originally Posted by ewenmack View Post

                              You know, you make it difficult for people to help you,
                              not only did I post it in your thread after you asked for it and said you'd be most grateful,
                              now you tell me you haven't read it? There seems a pig headiness about your responses that turns off those that are capable of helping you.

                              This time you are going to have to hunt for it
                              so the pain and reward gap is widened.

                              Best,
                              Doctor E. Vile
                              Never mind, I found it! I thought you were referring to a different thread, because I thought you were referring to this specific thread, and so I was searching this one for the link you mentioned. I'm a dumbass!
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                              • Profile picture of the author gjabiz
                                Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post


                                I'm a dumbass!
                                In less than a month, you've gotten two paying gigs. Not bad for a thread hijacking dumbass, is it?

                                gjabiz
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                                • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
                                  Originally Posted by gjabiz View Post

                                  In less than a month, you've gotten two paying gigs. Not bad for a thread hijacking dumbass, is it?

                                  gjabiz
                                  I think it was luck lol. One of them was a Fiverr gig and the other was from a person in a Facebook group looking for someone to rewrite an Amazon product page. Not too bad, but really not much work. It's tricky figuring out how to use this work to my advantage. The clients liked my work, but I never got any official testimonial regarding the results. The Fiverr client left a great review, but hasn't even been online since.
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      • Profile picture of the author davidcane
        Originally Posted by DKCopywriter View Post

        GREAT quote! The trouble is, it's VERY hard finding work when you're starting off as a copywriter. I've gone through the threads, but it's still EXTREMELY challenging to find somebody willing to pay me money as I cannot prove that my copy leads to sales, since I have some spec work and some work I just completed for my first clients, but still no actual proven results.

        Everyone seems to want an online portfolio with fully designed work (I'm no designer, I only type the copy in Word!) and stats that prove your copy leads to sales.

        If you were in my position, what EXACTLY would you do? I've asked so many people and looked at so many threads, but I'm still struggling immensely to even get my shoe in the door.

        I'm the opposite of an expert, but maybe you can do what I myself have been doing for the past month or so: work for free. I began marketing my skills to people and businesses I'd like to work with (not just to anyone), and trying to convince them I can deliver. I'm very forthright and tell them I'm happy to do it for free, (for now) in order to work, gain experience and build a portfolio that can command attention. Now, I do have one terrific asset: I am a native bilingual speaker in a country that has plenty to offer the world but struggles to sell itself, especially in English. Nevertheless, I've seen some amazing results, well above my expectations. Again, just one month ago I had no idea what copywriting even meant. Now I'm telling people I'll work for them for free, and requests for quotes are rolling in daily! I think there may be more than one lesson in there...

        So, now that I've given out my first priceless piece of advice (on my second ever WF post!), can i PLEASE get some love on MY thread?

        http://www.warriorforum.com/copywrit...tism-fire.html
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    • Profile picture of the author Maria1986
      Originally Posted by MikeClaridge View Post

      There's a quote that really helped me when I was just starting out. I'll copy it here because I think it's perfect, and I'll likely butcher it if I try to recreate it myself.

      "Nobody tells this to people who are beginners, I wish someone told me...

      All of us who do creative work, we get into it because we have good taste. But there is this gap. For the first couple years you make stuff, it's just not that good. It's trying to be good, it has potential, but it's not. But your taste, the thing that got you into the game, is still killer. And your taste is why your work disappoints you.*

      A lot of people never get past this phase, they quit. Most people I know who do interesting, creative work went through years of this. We know our work doesn't have this special thing that we want it to have. We all go through this.*

      And if you are just starting out or you are still in this phase, you gotta know its normal and the most important thing you can do is do a lot of work. Put yourself on a deadline so that every week you will finish one story. It is only by going through a volume of work that you will close that gap, and your work will be as good as your ambitions. And I took longer to figure out how to do this than anyone I've ever met.*

      It's gonna take awhile. It's normal to take awhile. You've just gotta fight your way through." - Ira Glass
      Thanks a lot for this. It keeps me motivated.
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  • Profile picture of the author angiecolee
    Good. You win by showing up every day, learning something every day, and never giving up.

    One foot forward. Keep learning and getting better.
    Signature

    Aspiring copywriters: if you need 1:1 advice from an experienced copy chief, head over to my Phone a Friend page.

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  • Profile picture of the author DKCopywriter
    Finally managed to get my hands (digital hands) on Scientific Advertising. Within just a few minutes of reading, I noticed my problem immediately. In my emails, I say I can help them, I offer my services, and give a rough price.

    I SHOULD NOT HAVE EVEN MENTIONED THE PRICE!!

    I should smack myself in the face.

    SMACK!!!

    Okay, now that that's out of the way, it's pretty obvious that I should have rewritten a portion of the site and just sent it over to him on the get-go, without even asking for anything. If he likes it, he'll use it and want me to write more, quite possibly willing to compensate me for it.

    But I asked and that's where I went wrong.

    I'd ask for forgiveness, but that's still asking!
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