I know I’m preaching to the choir here, because you’re a copywriter and you know how wonderful you are. But stick with me for a minute.

I was chatting to some other copywriters recently. There was the usual griping about briefing challenges, unrealistic deadlines, billing issues, inefficient sign-off processes and dodgy amends. Just another day at the coal face, right?

But what was clear was that these writers – who specialise in different areas, work both agency and freelance, and have different levels of experience – had all developed an expertise in navigating these many challenges. They continuously deliver compelling copy – often against the odds.

Copywriters are a creative bunch (and not just in crafting a turn of phrase). Being a copywriter requires you to be a strategist, negotiator, peace-maker, subject matter expert, grammar nerd and debater. Despite the introverted stereotype, you need to be able to stand up for your recommendations while still taking on feedback. It’s a mix of qualities you don’t get in many other jobs.

And copywriters don’t give themselves enough credit for this.

There’s a great year of copywriting ahead of us, so let’s spend it giving ourselves credit where it’s due. Let’s make it a year of confidence and community – where we stand up for good writing and celebrate the full range of skills we possess. Here are a few ideas on how to make this happen:

• Copywriting Conference 2019 – I always finish CopyCon with a buzz and get to my desk the next day brimming with enthusiasm. This year is another great line-up that will broaden your understanding of copywriting’s diverse skillbase. Plus, you meet copywriters from across the country and around the world
• Manchester copywriting conference in June – line-up TBC, but Lorrie Hartshorn, Andrew Nattan and co are preparing another great day up North. Keep an eye on Twitter for emerging details
• #copywritersunite on Twitter and in person – use Vikki Ross’ hashtag. And go to the quarterly drinks, which are held in cities from Manchester to Bournemouth. Being able to bounce ideas and frustrations off your local peers is invaluable
• Subscribe to a copywriting podcast or 3 – Glenn Fisher has hit the ground running with his new All Good Copy podcast, there’s great B2B chat on Radix’s Good Copy Bad Copy, and Belinda Weaver and Kate Toon are great fun on the Hot Copy Podcast
• Pick a more general marketing and business book – my 2018 highlight was Richard Shotton’s Choice Factory, and Seth Godin’s new This is Marketing recently arrived (if you’re interested in my bookshelf)

I hope to see you around this year – in person and online.