5 Mistakes New Copywriters Make That Keep Them Stuck & Broke

Summary

In this video, Alex shares the five common mistakes that new copywriters make, which keep them stuck and unsuccessful. These include relying on shortcuts, embracing a DIY mentality, expecting glamorous jobs too soon, setting unrealistic boundaries around pricing, and only looking for clients in limited places. Alex provides tough love and practical advice on how to avoid these traps, stressing the importance of hard work, surrounding oneself with the right people, and remaining open to different opportunities. She encourages copywriters to focus on growth and experience over immediate high earnings.

Takeaways

• 😅 Don't rely on shortcuts in copywriting; hard work and learning the craft are essential for success.
• 💡 Taking a DIY approach may seem tempting, but seeking guidance, mentorship, and community support accelerates growth.
• 🎯 Starting out, new copywriters shouldn't expect glamorous projects. Any job provides valuable experience.
• 🚀 Boundaries are important, but flexibility with pricing and taking lower-paying jobs can open doors to better opportunities.
• 👥 Success in copywriting often involves building connections, authority, and experience over time.
• 📚 Invest time and energy in learning the fundamentals of copywriting and marketing, and avoid relying too much on AI or shortcuts.
• 🤝 Surround yourself with a supportive community to stay motivated and accountable.
• 📝 Accept less exciting jobs at the beginning to gain experience and hone your skills.
• 🔑 Your pricing strategy should be flexible, especially when you're starting out and building connections.
• 🌱 Keep looking for clients in various ways and remember, there isn't a single 'right' method for client acquisition.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of this video?

The main purpose of this video is to provide new copywriters with advice on common mistakes that keep them stuck, broke, and unsuccessful, and to offer mindset shifts to help them reach the next level in their careers.

What was Alex's first major mistake when working with a client?

Alex made the mistake of using the F word in the subject line of an email for a client with a wholesome brand voice and audience, which did not go over well.

What is 'Trap number one' according to Alex?

Trap number one is called the 'shortcut slow down,' where new copywriters try to find quick paths to success, like reading book summaries or using AI, instead of investing time into actually learning the craft of copywriting.

Why does Alex emphasize doing the work rather than seeking shortcuts?

Alex believes that searching for shortcuts slows down progress, and investing time in learning copywriting fundamentals, like reading books and practicing, leads to faster and more sustainable success.

What does Alex refer to as the 'DIY delay'?

The 'DIY delay' is a trap where copywriters try to do everything on their own without asking for help, fearing failure or embarrassment, which hinders their growth and slows down their progress.

How does Alex suggest overcoming the 'DIY delay'?

To overcome the 'DIY delay,' Alex suggests investing in support systems such as mentors, communities, and memberships, which provide guidance, accountability, and support to help copywriters succeed.

What is the 'glamour myth' trap that Alex talks about?

The 'glamour myth' trap is the belief that new copywriters should only work on exciting, glamorous projects. Alex advises beginners to take any writing job to gain experience and not be selective when starting out.

What does Alex mean by 'boundary backfire'?

The 'boundary backfire' refers to setting rigid boundaries, particularly around pricing, that may prevent new copywriters from gaining valuable experience, connections, and authority when they are just starting out.

How does Alex recommend setting prices as a new copywriter?

Alex recommends being flexible with pricing in the beginning, considering not only the monetary value but also the potential experience, connections, and authority gained from a project.

What is the 'one-way highway' trap mentioned in the video?

The 'one-way highway' trap refers to only using one method to find clients. Alex advises copywriters to explore multiple ways to connect with potential clients and make client-hunting part of their everyday conversations.