Getting-Clients Tip: What to Do when You Don't Have Past Copywriting Experience

Masters program member Nancy Dower used to work as an advertising manager for a major department store. One of her duties was to hire copywriters to write ads.

Now Nancy wants to try her hand at direct mail copywriting. (She actually began her career writing retail copy but feels that direct mail will be more challenging.) Based on her experience, she feels that some advertising managers are interested in seeing what aspiring copywriters can do, as well as what they have done. So, here's the approach she's taking to build her portfolio:

"I'm taking some of the direct-mail pieces I receive in the mail and rewriting them to include in my portfolio. When submitting them, I'm going to include the original version along with my version, so as to not misrepresent myself. The key will be to be upfront and honest, and tell any potential clients that I haven't actually been paid for these jobs, but this is what I can do."

Maybe Nancy's approach will work for you.

If you have any other ideas, please post them on our AWAI member forum. Then take a look at some of the discussions that are already going. You might find some other helpful ideas there too.