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If you want a big time gig, don't do this...

by Don Grace
7 replies
Howdy folks,

I just got off the phone with a top marketer that has a ton of copy work to be done and no time to do it. But to get to that point took some steps...

As we were B.S.ing a bit he told me the only reason I got this far out of 100's of people is because of my approach. Here it is...

Instead of sending a boring resume like everyone else, I sent a provocative letter selling myself. But first I researched them to see what kind of people they are and how edgy I could be with words.

He told me how he couldn't believe all these supposed copywriters just sent in plain old resumes. That surprised me actually. I figured sending a letter selling yourself would be logical.

Granted, having a track record doesn't hurt either...

Next comes the offer they can't refuse... I'm a put up or shut up guy. I'm writing a letter for them and letting them be the judge. Yeah, I know a lot of people wouldn't want to take that kind of risk, but the potential reward far outweighs it.

I've done this before with stellar results. Plus, we're talking about a well known and reputable dude. If he was not, there would be no way in hell I'd do this.

Bottom line here is if you're trying to land clients with job applications and boring resumes. you might want to try another method. Especially if you're confident you can produce results.
#big #gig #time
  • Profile picture of the author Sharpay
    I will never, ever, ever hire copywriters that don't sell themselves to me in their letters. That's the entire point of paying for them!
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  • Profile picture of the author Alex Cohen
    Originally Posted by Don Grace View Post


    He told me how he couldn't believe all these supposed copywriters just sent in plain old resumes. That surprised me actually. I figured sending a letter selling yourself would be logical.
    Not surprising. Go to Google, search on "copywriter" and look at the ads. Some are pathetic.

    Alex
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  • Profile picture of the author Loren Woirhaye
    Most journeymen in any trade have way to broad
    a focus. I know something about this because
    I have a trade skill in a field unrelated to selling
    and have marketed myself -

    - the issue is not how many big promises you can make,
    but how many constraints you can introduce into
    what you are A) set up to do profitably as a specialist
    and B) compete as a specialist in a relevant
    segment of the market (clients with need and means).

    Advice in the OP is quite good. Kudos.
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  • Profile picture of the author Danielle Lynn
    Standing out from the competition is definitely important in any business pursuit, and good on you Don for getting your prospect's attention.

    A note for other copywriters who want to stand out to prospects:
    (This is not directed at Don, just more info for lurkers)

    Be careful when trying to impress your prospects with shows of your writing talents.

    A savvy marketer knows when he's being 'sold' to. If you truly can pull it off, you'll look good and come out ahead.

    But I've seen how some starting-out copywriters present themselves.

    To mask the fact that they don't have years of experience, some of these copywriters 'fake' confidence by filling their copy with egotistical, abrasive 'edginess' that is as substantial as a spiked cream puff (and about as enjoyable.)

    If you do have confidence, that's great. And YES copywriters can bring in the egotistical angle successfully, but it takes a truly skilled copywriter to pull it off right (Note: Gary Halbert.)

    My suggestion is work with your strengths - and don't try to fool anyone. If you truly are edgy, alright build around that. But don't 'fake it 'till you make it.'

    Being genuine in whatever business you're in will get you a lot farther than you think.
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    • Profile picture of the author Micah Medina
      Originally Posted by Danielle Lynn View Post

      But I've seen how some starting-out copywriters present themselves.

      To mask the fact that they don't have years of experience, some of these copywriters 'fake' confidence by filling their copy with egotistical, abrasive 'edginess' that is as substantial as a spiked cream puff (and about as enjoyable.)
      Strongly second this.

      You'll come off exactly like the nerd in a top hat and glitter walking up to girls and reciting awful "put down" lines they read in a dating book.
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  • Profile picture of the author craigvdb
    Yes, very good points.

    I would even go a step further, if you (or your business) offers design skills make sure some materials you provide looks pretty and conveys the information well (info graphic style).

    I have a personal story...I was interviewing in person for a job that I later won. One of the primary reasons why I got that job was because I developed a slide deck that I presented on my tablet that addressed their specific needs. Even though I was not the best candidate for the job, I was able to communicate my history and ideas well so they hired me.
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  • Profile picture of the author Don Grace
    UPDATE... F*ckin SCORE!!!

    The approach paid off once again. And they put me under a crazy deadline to boot. But I submitted the letter and they loved it.

    This isn't even about the money although it's nice... for me it's about working with awesome people that share a vision and being able to collaborate with like minded folks.

    Remember that when you go after clients, you'll find your work is a breeze and you have a lot more fun in the process.
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  • Profile picture of the author Auzan
    Banned
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