Why did you choose a career in copywriting and how did you get into it?
Words have always captured my attention – they had me at A is for Apple!
I wrote stories from a young age and I got into communications after graduating from a degree in English literature – yes, I am a voracious reader as well as a skilled wordsmith! Marketing & PR appealed to me as a big part of my job was writing.
That was over 15 years ago and over the last few years I have been focusing more on the copywriting.
My marketing and PR background gives my copywriting a huge boost as I am experienced in writing copy that sells and am also an expert in writing SEO copy.
What work are you most proud of?
I am really proud of my Girls’ Guide to Motoring copy that I wrote for Continental Tyres – trying to make tyres interesting? Now that’s a challenge I love! I made the topic broader and drew focus on the money saving element to make it more accessible to women.
What piece of copy do you really wish you’d written?
I love everything Lush ever write – all their product copy is beautifully done, informative and authentic with a big dose of fun.
What do you do if you hit a bit of writer’s block?
Go for a walk. There’s nothing a bit of time in nature won’t fix.
What are your favourite and least favourite writing-related tasks?
I genuinely love it all but I guess least favourite are the more technical-sided pieces – although I do relish a challenge.
Any copywriting pet hates?
Grammatical mistakes! I am a massive grammar pedant and it infuriates me when I see an apostrophe in the wrong place!
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve been given?
Just be the thing you want to be – don’t wait, be it now.
What advice would you give to people starting out on a copywriting career?
Get lots of practice wherever you can. Start with your own website and blog.
What’s your favourite thing about being a copywriter?
I get to write for a living, which is the thing I love to do most!
Why do you find PCN membership useful?
It’s a useful way for people to find out about you and it offers useful advice.
Where can people find out more about you?