Sometimes I turn work away – That might sound crazy to my fellow business owners, but sometimes I have to say no to work (even when the money would be nice).

Why?

Because I’ve seen a trend in the online biz world lately that is really frustrating. People are being coached to spend their last dollars on a copywriter so they can supposedly start making money. These are people who have had no clients yet, and aren’t even sure what their messaging should be…

Here’s the reality:

If you are new in business, a copywriter is probably not going to be an investment for you. They are more likely to be an expense.

Of course, I’m not saying that a copywriter is not a great investment for some (obviously, right?) but those that will get a return on that investment are businesses who have been around for a while (at least a year). These businesses will be clear on who they work with and have some ideas around their strengths. They will also have past clients that can be surveyed or interviewed for insights. The investment in copy will not wipe out their bank account or be a hail Mary pass to desperately try to get some money coming through the door. They will understand the value of building great messaging and having a strategy.

They will also understand that great copy takes time so they won’t be requesting 7 pages of copy with a 3 day turnaround *wink*

Don’t get me wrong, I love the passion and drive that a lot of new entrepreneurs have when they reach out to me, but 9 out of 10 of those people are just not ready for a copywriter and I am not afraid to tell them so, even if that means less clients for me. I’d rather have less clients and a clear conscience 🙂

Anyone relate?