A very special invitation
to our most ambitious
and “eager-to-succeed” members …

Dear Reader,

Because you’re an AWAI member set on a lucrative career in copywriting, you’re probably well aware of Circle of Success.

Circle of Success is the industry’s highest level of learning, where, among other things, you’re fast-tracked through a rigorous program designed to take you from where you are now … to a working, in demand, highly paid, “A-level” copywriter.

I’m writing to you today to tell you more about this extraordinary program … to see if it’s something you’d like to take advantage of to advance your career quickly, like so many AWAI members have.

I’m also going to tell you about a series of “special arrangements” we’ve made to make Circle of Success more accessible — both financially and otherwise.

But first, I should warn you …

As empowering as this program is, Circle of Success is no walk in the park. People who have been through it tell us it’s a little like final semester, senior year: You’ll be challenged … you’ll be tested … and you’ll be expected to make it to the top.

Circle of Success is very much a roll-up-your-sleeves, get-down-to-business program …

You’ll be building your skills and developing income opportunities every day — even if you have just an hour or so to devote to it.

You’ll be working on real “live” assignments, provided to you by marketers who will be waiting for your work … actively looking to land the next copywriting superstar.

You’ll be assembling a professional portfolio of A-level letters using your newly acquired advanced skills.

You’ll have important deadlines to meet.

You’ll be in constant communication with marketers, fellow writers, and potential clients.

Many in the industry — Michael Masterson and all of us here at AWAI included — will be watching your progress … pulling for you … excited about promoting you.

In other words, your effort and persistence will be well rewarded.

You’ll be completely immersed in the world of copywriting — everything from mastering killer headlines … to laying down great leads and letter copy … to building a professional portfolio … to structuring your freelance business … to lining up clients … to understanding the mechanics and workings of the direct-response industry.

The Fastest (and Most-Proven) Path To Copywriting Success

Indeed, those who underestimate the intense level of learning involved in this program fall by the wayside very quickly.

That’s why if you don’t have a strong eagerness to succeed … we respectfully ask that you think twice about accepting this invitation.

But if you do, you’re in for what many of our members call a “life-altering experience.” And it starts on the day you make the commitment to mastery, like it did for Steve Coombes — who had this to say about his Circle of Success experience:

“A friend asked me today if the Circle of Success program helped jumpstart my copywriting career. Rocket-blasted is more like it! Thanks to Circle of Success, I was able to attend my first copywriting Bootcamp last year — for free. I shared lunch with copywriting great Bob Bly and spent an evening chatting with Michael Masterson.

I returned home from Bootcamp with loads of valuable new copywriting knowledge, several new copywriter friends who I stay in regular contact with (I knew NO ONE in the industry prior to Circle of Success), and an assignment that helped me land my biggest client ever.

Throughout the past year, I’ve also taken advantage of AWAI’s online training and several of AWAI’s copywriting niche programs — all for free as part of Circle of Success. Even after a year in the program, I still can’t believe I get so much for so little!

No question, the Accelerated Program for Six-Figure Copywriting got me to the launching pad … but Circle of Success is the rocket fuel that really launched my copywriting business.

Looking back, I know I simply wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for Circle of Success.”

Steve Coombes
Circle of Success member

Steve’s letter reflects what we’ve heard from so many members over the years. It shows just what Circle of Success can do for you, beyond ratcheting up your copywriting skills and putting our library of resources at your disposal.

It opens up so many industry doors …

It gets you the best and most lucrative copywriting jobs out there — assignments from firms that request only our best people (our “brightest stars,” as one client refers to them) …

It gets you anytime access to me, Rebecca, Paul Hollingshead, Michael Masterson, Don Mahoney, Bob Bly, and the many other “friends” of AWAI who are among the industry’s top writers and marketers …

And it puts you “front of mind” when marketers come to us looking for the newest up-and-coming copywriters.

Rebecca, who heads up the Web-writing opportunity side of our business, and I are regularly approached by marketers. They’ll say, “I have a project that’s perfect for a good, eager, new writer. But, at the same time, it’s an important job — a product launch. So, who do you recommend?”

The first place I look is Circle of Success. After all, these are the folks who have made the commitment. People like you who are taking the time to learn the most advanced skills through the many resources and online “classroom-style” programs exclusive to Circle of Success members …

Folks who have made it known to us, in no uncertain terms, that — by accepting our invitation to join Circle of Success — they are here to compete as an A-level copywriter … and are dead serious about it.

That’s how the ball got rolling for Steve, the gentleman whose letter you just read. Same goes for countless other AWAI members who’ve signed up for Circle of Success:

There simply isn’t a better or faster way to master copywriting skills and advance your career!

It’s a swift and thorough learning process:

The Five “Phases” of Your Copywriting Success

Once you make the commitment to become a member of the Circle, you’ll be guided through five “Success Modules” — each one designed to play a pivotal role in your short- and long-term success.

Module One sets the stage …

It focuses on Career Planning … where, between the two of us, we develop a detailed plan for getting you to where you want to be professionally … taking into account your strengths, interests, how much money you want (or need) to make, and the kind of lifestyle you’re looking to have.

Quickly, you’ll move into Module Two, the Skill Development phase of the program … where we not only help you develop the writing skills you need to be an

A-level copywriter in your chosen niche … but also give you the marketing know-how and industry insights you’ll need to be a recognized true expert in direct-response marketing.

From there, it’s on to Module Three, Portfolio Building … where we help you build a substantial body of sample letters and direct-response campaigns you’ll be proud to show any prospective client … work that’s so advanced and polished that landing your first paid assignment will be a breeze.

Module Four puts you in the Career Launching phase of the program. This is where “the rubber meets the road,” so to speak, and we focus on getting your name (and your skills) known to the marketers in your field … lining you up with your first paid assignment … and making sure you have all the resources and support you need to make your first professional campaign an eye-opening success.

And finally, for as long as you want it, you have Ongoing Professional Support … where you can come back to AWAI for help whenever you’re faced with a new challenge … to access any additional resources you may need … to ask questions … and, of course, to use our “Circle of Success Only” job bank, where top clients post copywriting assignments aimed exclusively at our more experienced members.

As you can see, Circle of Success truly is a comprehensive and transforming experience.

But please don’t think it will be a leisurely one …

Your Journey Begins Right Away

One of the first orders of business will be to arrange a time for either Rebecca or me to meet with you, usually by telephone or video conference, to determine your specific needs and goals.

We’ll want to know, among other things, which area of copywriting you’d like to concentrate on, whether it be traditional direct response, Web and e-marketing, Business-to-Business (B2B), or something else.

If you’re not sure, we’ll help you with your decision.

We’ll talk about your interests, your strengths, your likes and dislikes, your income objectives, and so on. There are so many aspects to the copywriting business — so many opportunities — there’s sure to be one (or several) perfect for you.

Once we have a general direction in mind, we’ll help you “drill it down” even further. Maybe you’d like to specialize in financial writing or helping nonprofits raise money. Maybe you see yourself starting your own Internet enterprise or information publishing business …

Whatever it is you want to do, by the end of that first meeting, you’ll know exactly what your next steps should be. We’ll follow up our call with an email detailing your personalized “action plan.” And we’ll be available to you along the way whenever you have any questions or need a little “push.”

Just to be clear … this won’t be a “cookie-cutter” plan we’ve prepared in advance.

There’s no such thing as “one size fits all” when it comes to your future.

That’s why your “Career Achievement Plan” (CAP, as we call it) is created just for you — based on what you tell us you want to achieve.

And do not underestimate the power of this carefully designed plan.

One of the things we often hear from AWAI members is that, because the opportunities in the world of direct response have exploded in recent years, it’s become even more difficult to know which corner of this $3 trillion industry you’re best suited for … which specialties can best leverage your unique skills, strengths, and interests — not just for maximum income but for quality of life as well.

That’s why we take the initial Career Planning module of Circle of Success very seriously. Because with a good plan in hand — where every step you need to take to achieve ultimate success is clearly laid out in front of you, one after another — nothing is left to chance.

Of course, as crucial to your success as the “CAP” phase of your Circle of Success membership is, it’s just the beginning of the process.

Over the coming weeks, you will be on an intense “express fast track” that will ensure you have the knowledge, credentials, and writing skills you’ll need to succeed at the highest level.

In a moment, I’ll tell you how we plan to elevate your writing and marketing skills very quickly, using some innovative and proven interactive techniques that many Circle members say transformed their understanding of direct-response copywriting.

But first, I’d like to share something we’ve learned over the course of our 14 years of helping folks like you make the move to writing professionally — something that I wholeheartedly believe is why so many Circle members go on to tremendous success.

What We Learned From Our Most Successful Members

The idea for Circle of Success evolved as we were working on our “Wall of Fame” project a few years back. Perhaps you’ve seen it?

Our Wall of Fame is what we call the list of successful AWAI alumni you’ll find on our website. These are people who have taken our programs and are now working as successful copywriters out in the real world — and they’ve agreed to share their stories as inspiration for new members.

They tell us what they’re doing, how they got there … and some keys to their success. And as the list began to grow, we noticed a few common threads.

First of all, most of these people are voracious learners.

They seek out and absorb any and all information on the business of copywriting that they can get their hands on.

Many of our most successful people are AWAI Masters Program members. And virtually every one of them has attended an AWAI FastTrack to Copywriting Success Bootcamp and Job Fair or two. Some go every year.

They’ve told us it wasn’t just the valuable knowledge they gained at Bootcamp that accelerated their ascent — it was the marketers and industry people they met through the Job Fair … having actual copywriting assignments they could sink their teeth into … the opportunity to sit down and talk with successful copywriters and the people who hire them … and simply the chance to be immersed in the “world of copywriting” for three full days.

But here’s the thing we found most interesting …

Many of our most successful alumni told us they owe much of their success to various alliances they formed on their own with other AWAI members.

People in these informal little groups would exchange email addresses, stay in contact online, encourage each other to move forward, bounce ideas back and forth — and provide honest feedback on copy written by their fellow group members.

It’s a great idea …

Because suddenly, not only were members of these little groups writing with a real and distinct purpose — they now had somewhere to turn whenever they needed encouragement, motivation, ideas for a fresh, new direction … or just plain old advice on specific copywriting issues.

It reminded us of something they do at Harvard Business School. Students are assigned to groups and asked to work together, as a team, to solve complex business problems.

That got us thinking …

What if we could facilitate this kind of involvement for a select group of ambitious members … plus give them extra resources … supply an experienced “mentor” to lead the group. What could they accomplish then?

Like “Harvard” for Copywriters

It would be like Harvard Business School … but for copywriters!

And no one is better equipped to deliver this high-octane experience than AWAI.

Over the years, we’ve established relationships and alliances with some of the most successful copywriters in direct-response marketing — people like Michael Masterson, Bill Bonner, Dan Kennedy, Mike Palmer, Joe Sugarman, Herschell Gordon Lewis, Nick Usborne, Mark Everett Johnson, Bob Bly, and others.

We see a never-ending stream of real, live writing assignments … from major direct- response companies that come to us in search of good, new writers.

We have copywriters within our ranks who are out there in the working world — happy to offer their help and advice and “mentor” up-and-coming copywriters like you.

In short, AWAI (we’re very proud to say) has become the recognized authority on training and preparing new copywriters for a successful and lucrative career.

We’re the perfect (indeed, the only) organization that can “link” new writers with an industry that’s hungry for new talent by 1) providing exceptional copywriting training and ongoing support, and 2) introducing new writers to actual clients once they’re ready.

We have the ability to provide a secure “virtual meeting space” for interested members through our AWAI website.

We know what marketers are looking for in a copywriter, so we know the skills you need to have to succeed and we can help you assemble a professional self-marketing program that’s sure to grab attention.

What’s more, we have many learning and skill-building resources in place to make this a complete and comprehensive experience for people like you.

So, not only can you be working on actual assignments with the help, encouragement, and support of writers more experienced than you — it will be happening within one of the intimate and interactive groups we call “success circles.”

You Get Everything We Offer — Forever

At the same time, AWAI will ensure you have free access to every copywriting skill-building resource in our library, for as long as you need it …

I’m talking about the complete library of AWAI-published writing and career- building products — from our advanced Masters Program … to our niche specialty writing programs … to our getting-clients resources … to any products we develop in coming years — for as long as you maintain your Circle of Success membership.

The list of AWAI programs and resources that Circle Members can have for free hasbecome so extensive that I don’t have room to name them here. To see the full listing listing, click here.

Just remember: As a Circle of Success member, every program, book, guide, and learning resource you see is “yours for the asking.” Plus, you get any new programs created by AWAI at any time in the future … for as long as you maintain your membership.

These programs are icing on the cake, as it were — ways you can parlay your writing skills to make hundreds of thousands of dollars in extra income … writing about fun and interesting things from the comfort of your own home.

Of course, Circle of Success is far more than just access to our library of resources.

It’s about getting you the skills you need to be successful at the “A-level” — as quickly as humanly possible.

Here’s How the Whole Thing Will Work

As soon as you sign up, you’ll be assigned to a very small, very intimate, success circle that will consist of no more than 25 of your fellow AWAI writers.

Your group will include all levels of writers — from “professional” copywriters with experience writing the kinds of letters you’ll be writing … to newer writers just getting started.

As a group, you’ll be offered numerous assignments directly from AWAI … be provided with ongoing research and writing tips … and participate in regular “peer reviews” and “mini-reviews,” where you’ll review headline and lead ideas and offer constructive suggestions for improvement.

Your success circle will have its own online meeting space, where you can chat, interact, and share ideas.

You’ll also have access to a blog where you’ll get thoughts and insights on copywritingfrom AWAI Board Member and Master Copywriter Will Newman, as well as guest marketers and professional copywriters … dozens of skill-building writing exercises that you’ll want to master … information about upcoming conference calls and peer-review sessions.

And if you still need help or questions answered, it’s a simple matter of emailing your personal Circle of Success liaison directly.

Group Learning Breeds Copywriter Superstars

I can’t put enough stress on the value of this kind of “group learning” experience.

It’s how many of the publishing divisions at Agora Inc. — one of the country’s biggest financial and health publishers — operate today. Over the years, they’ve found that it’s the best way to bring new writers up to speed very quickly.

AWAI alumni Greg G. admits he struggled as a solo copywriter. But when given a chance to work with Agora’s financial group, he produced a letter that generated over $5 million in sales — and he went on to become one of the company’s most successful copywriters.

Guillermo Rubio flourished as a copywriter months after attending his first AWAI Bootcamp, where he was invited to work in AWAI’s copywriting group under the mentorship of Master Copywriter Paul Hollingshead and, later, Michael Masterson.

A colleague of Paul’s, copywriter Jay Livingston, who writes for The Oxford Club, formed a similar group a few years back. Today, that team generates some of the most successful copy the organization has ever seen.

Same with Mike Palmer and his Stansberry & Associates publishing group. They’ve helped make their group one of the most profitable at Agora, with hundreds of millions in sales generated annually.

And, as I suggested to you before, many more AWAI members have told us their confidence and success took flight simply due to the encouragement and support they found by setting up small, informal alliances.

Encouragement and support is, of course, important. But nothing can buoy your confidence like knowledge — which brings me to one of the most important aspects of the Circle of Success:

The live learning experience.

The Meat of Your COS Experience:
Your 4 Online “Core Subject” Learning Sessions

Within days of your membership taking effect, you’ll be able to get started on a curriculum of four intense, live, online learning sessions.

These sessions will allow you to study and master each of the crucial elements of a successful direct-response package — from writing captivating HEADLINES and irresistible LEADS to lessons on THE STRUCTURE of a successful sales letter, everything from “what to say when” … to loading your letter with proof and credibility … right through to writing powerful offers and order devices.

The fourth online learning session is called “GETTING CLIENTS,” but really it’s about much, much more.

Not only does this session show you how to sell yourself effectively to any client you’d like to write for, it also shows you how to set up your copywriting business … how to present yourself in a professional manner … strategies for getting your clients to pay you top dollar … and what clients expect from you.

Each of these four sessions is offered in a “targeted learning” environment — where you tackle one subject at a time, within the dynamics of an online classroom setting, at a set time every week, with a live instructor who is right there with you in real time delivering invaluable content and answering your questions along the way.

(In fact, the next “Headlines” session starts just a few weeks from now! More details soon … )

Plus, there’s a brand-new, recently recorded bonus session you’ll have access to that’s all about FINDING YOUR VOICE — strategies for giving your letters a winning, authoritative tone and writing stronger, more conversational copy.

As a Circle of Success member, you’ll have an opportunity to participate in each of these intensive, online learning sessions, at your own pace, over the course of 24 months.

Ours Is a Business of “Ideas” —
And You’re About to Become a Master

First up — the crucial “Mastering Headlines” session, where you’ll learn to develop the “Big Idea” that’s behind every successful direct-mail piece.

Make no mistake, any ad — whether a simple space ad or a 36-page sales letter — lives or dies on the strength of the idea behind it … and how it “reaches” the reader relative to his or her core needs, wants, and desires.

That’s why it’s important for you to master this element of copywriting first — by learning how to consistently find exciting and compelling ideas that grab your prospect’s attention and break through the clutter of all the advertising noise out there.

Next up, the live “Leads” session, where you’ll learn how to “engage” your reader, gain his or her trust, and turn your “Big Idea” into a very powerful benefit and promise.

Then it’s on to the “Structure” session, where you’ll learn what to do in your letter at every stage … how to load it with proof and credibility … how to make an irresistible offer … and how to use a powerful close to get your reader to “take action.”

These are the very lessons that past and current Circle of Success members have told us were instrumental in launching their copywriting careers — and once and for all helped them master the core elements of a successful sales letter.

Like Karen Thomas, who told us:

“I came into the program with a limited amount of knowledge on headlines, and even less on leads, and came away with a great understanding of what it takes to make a strong and compelling headline and lead.”

And Alan Gepfert, who is putting his new skills to use on his current writing projects:

“Like all AWAI programs, the Headline intensive session really filled the bill.

The interactions with other participants and the lecturer/facilitator were terrific; it was so helpful to venture opinions, ask questions, and get comments. It was eye-opening to benefit from the long professional experience of our lecturer. And, above all, I got major insights that were invaluable for a real, current copywriting project of my own.”

And Vin Jensen, who summed up his experience this way:

“I think I can write copy, but without this Getting and Keeping Clients online intensive, I don’t know that I would have figured out how to become a copywriter. The program material so far is great! On top of that, this kind of feedback alone is worth the cost of the membership!”

Live Learning Is Only Available Through Circle of Success

Only through Circle of Success are these structured “academic” learning sessions offered — where you come to understand the theory behind great headlines, leads, letter composition, and offers … get practical training on how to transition from one selling idea to another … and master techniques on how to infuse your letter with that all- important captivating “Big Idea” and a strong dose of proof, promise, and credibility.

And you’ll be doing it at your convenience — while working within your success circle

… and incorporating what you’re learning into letters for live assignments provided by real clients.

Plus, if you feel you need to “relearn” some of the content — or you’d just like a refresher — no problem. You can re-take any of the sessions anytime you like … for as long as you choose to remain a Circle of Success member.

But, remember what I told you earlier …

Circle of Success is all about readying you for success in the copywriting world.

It’s about mastering the basic principles and then moving on to the deeper secrets that can make your letters much stronger and broaden your response rates. It’s about writing every day and ratcheting up your skill level, so that every time you sit down at your computer … you’re writing better copy.

And all the while, you’ll be building up a portfolio of work you can proudly and confidently show to any prospective client in the direct-response industry.

Here’s how we’ll help you do it …

As you’re working within your circle and participating in the live learning sessions, you’ll be given an opportunity to work on a broad spectrum of assignments from a variety of companies within the direct-mail industry.

For your first one, you may work on a financial package. Next, you may decide to take on a health and wellness assignment. After that, you might tackle a fundraising letter … then maybe a letter from AWAI or perhaps a Business-to-Business project or a Web offer.

You may submit any of the “spec” assignments you complete to the client who provided it. If they like what they see, they may choose to test it in the mail. If it does well, you’ll not only be paid for your work — you’ll have the first of what we believe will be many direct-mail successes under your belt!

And, of course, if you already have your own projects that you want work on within the Circle, you’ll be encouraged to do so …

We have several reasons for getting you to work on a series of different live assignments:

You’ll Master Every Major Niche — and
Compile a Very Impressive Portfolio of Work

First, we want you to start applying what you’re learning in your live classes to a variety of real-life assignments as quickly as possible.

Second, we want to expose you to as many of the most lucrative sectors of the direct- mail industry as we possibly can.

Third, we want to make sure you enter the market armed with the ability to write any package that comes your way — and get a “feel” for which market suits you best, in case you decide to specialize in a specific niche.

But the first order of business is to get you up and running as a professional writer.

And nothing will help you do that more than to have a rock-solid portfolio of at least five professional direct-response packages — consisting of at least one letter from each of the “big four” sectors: health, financial, B2B, and Web.

Not just a stack of letters, mind you …

We’ll help you assemble a professional “self-marketing kit” that you can take to the next AWAI Bootcamp or send to clients you’d like to work with — complete with sample letters, an introduction and proposal letter, and other pertinent material that marketers want to see.

But that’s not all …

Your Own Web Presence on AWAI’s Site

We’ll provide you with your very own promotional Web page on our site, which hundreds of potential top-level industry clients can see. We’ll even help you set it all up. Just fill out the template we supply you with, send us your portfolio, and we’ll put it all online, including links to letters you’ve written.

Of course, you’ll never be alone when it comes to working on these or any assignments so long as you’re a Circle of Success member.

You’ll be able to go to members of your circle for support and encouragement anytime.

AWAI will be organizing ongoing peer reviews within your circle where you can “try out” headlines, leads, and promotional ideas.

Instructors from your live target learning sessions will be available to help you via email.

And because of the access that Circle of Success members have to Rebecca, Paul, Don, me, and everyone else here at AWAI, you can always contact us when you need help with your writing, finding clients, or information on the direct-response industry in general.

But perhaps the most career-changing benefit of Circle of Success membership is the level of coaching you’re entitled to …

Free Peer-Review Copy Critiques

You’ll have an opportunity to send any piece of copy you’re working on — whether it’s for a live assignment or a spec assignment — directly to an A-level copywriter for a detailed peer-review copy critique.

Someone like Paul, Don, Will Newman … or another six-figure copywriter who writes copy for a living each and every day … and who has been on the winning end of dozens of million-dollar promotions.

One of these folks will read through your promo and give you a full, comprehensive, “head on” critique of your work — with specific suggestions for how to improve and strengthen the headline … the lead … the offer … even the very idea behind your promotion …

How valuable would that be to you?

Not only will you benefit from the feedback of a professional copywriter at this level — it will ensure that the letter you’re sending off into “the real world” is the best and strongest it can possibly be.

But Circle of Success members also have access to one powerful resource that no one else does — unless they’re willing to pony up the roughly $3,500 to $10,000 it typically costs …

I’m talking about an opportunity to work “shoulder-to-shoulder” with Paul or Don on one crucial project each year — everything from helping you come up with a “Big Idea” direction for your letter … to making sure you have a killer headline and lead (as well as a good blueprint for the rest of the letter) … to making sure your package has all the necessary elements it needs to succeed.

The COS “Perk” That Can Catapult Any New Career

Here’s how we’re going to make it happen for you …

When you get a writing assignment that you’d love to “nail,” you’ll simply let your

COS liaison know and she’ll set you up with a coaching session with either Don or Paul.

You’ll then send an overview of the project to your coach so he can gain a good understanding of it — then your liaison will arrange a private phone call between the two of you to discuss the project further.

A couple of days later, your coach (Paul or Don) will email you some ideas on the direction you could go with — some “Big Ideas” you might want to explore, along with some headline and lead suggestions.

You’ll hunker down and hammer out a headline and lead. When you’re happy with it, you’ll send it to your coach for a personal review. He will either say “good,” and send it back to you with a recommended outline or “blueprint” for the rest of the package — or he’ll say “this needs work,” and send it back with suggestions for improvement.

Once you’ve completed the letter, you’ll send it in for final review — and one last round of suggestions for improvement.

Consider how invaluable this will be — getting tips and actual copy pointers from a copywriting veteran … someone who has successfully sold hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of products through the mail and online.

Maybe you already know this, but personalized coaching in this business isn’t cheap. Paul charges $3,500 and up to work with writers on specific projects. Bob Bly offers this kind of personal coaching for $10,000 …

But you get one of these copy critiques a year for free — for as long as you’re an active Circle of Success member.

Monetary value aside, the impact one of these sessions can have on any letter you write — and on your career — is immeasurable …

That’s why we recommend that you use this resource very selectively — and only on a very important project, like your very first paid assignment … or when you really need to impress a new client.

Because remember, once you can claim a solid success in this business, word spreads quickly.

As we told you when we first introduced you to this business:

Marketers are constantly in search of the next up-and-coming copywriting superstar — whether it’s for Web copy, email, SEO, or traditional direct-mail letters. If they think you “have the stuff,” you’ll have no shortage of work.

And don’t forget, anytime you come to AWAI’s yearly Bootcamp & Job Fair as a Circle of Success member, you get premium access to all the marketers, publishers, and companies that come there looking for new writers — including a “sneak preview” of Job Fair, where you can meet and talk with prospective clients before everyone else.

Free Bootcamp — for Life

Speaking of Bootcamp, did I mention this? Circle of Success members get a free pass to the event — not for one year or two … but for life!

This is another of those “worth the cost of admission” benefits. Bootcamp, as you know, is the copywriting event of the year, where you learn all the latest tips and secrets from some of the best writers and marketers in the business …

But it’s also the networking event of the year, where you can meet fellow writers

… make an impression on prospective clients looking for their next superstar … or “talk shop” over a cocktail with writers and marketers like Rebecca Matter, Paul Hollingshead, Michael Masterson, Bob Bly, Don Mahoney, Dan Kennedy, Joe Sugarman, and others.

Like I said, virtually all of AWAI’s most successful members have attended at least one

Bootcamp. Many tell us being at the event and meeting the players made the copywriting opportunity seem “real” to them — and gave them the knowledge and motivation to really go after their success. I can’t tell you how many attendees have told us they got a paying assignment after striking up a conversation with a marketer there.

That’s why so many AWAI members (and Circle members, especially) come back year after year — to make new contacts … meet new friends … learn new skills … and get the kind of motivation that can carry them through an entire year.

At just under $2,000 (a couple hundred less if you get the “early bird” deal), we happen to think Bootcamp is an amazing value considering the immediate impact it can have on your career …

But as a Circle of Success member — you’ll never have to pay an attendance fee again! Not to mention the special perks, meetings, and learning events we put together exclusively for Circle members each and every year.

So you see, Circle of Success has it all — from career planning … to live lessons on writing … to working on real projects … to building a portfolio … to one-on-one coaching … to finding clients … to a lifetime of Bootcamp invitations … And don’t forget:

Free “anytime” access to the entire library of AWAI-published resources — over 120 in all, worth over $53,000* (Not to mention steep discounts on resources we offer from friends and partners outside of AWAI ... )

This really is the “Harvard” of learning for copywriters — the most comprehensive and highest level any copywriter can receive.

Maybe now you understand why, at the start of this letter, I told you that Circle of Success is not for people who take their copywriting aspirations lightly.

It is not for people who think a successful career is just going to “fall into their lap.”

You know it. I know it: To be highly successful, you need to make the effort.

*Circle of Success entitles you to a long list of benefits, including all writing, productivity, and business- building resources listed in the enclosed summary of benefits, as well as any AWAI resources we add in the future. Not included as part of Circle of Success membership (but are specially discounted for Circle members): admission to live events other than our annual Bootcamp ... and products we offer that are owned in whole or in part by strategic partners.

Your Skills Will Improve With Each Passing Day

Circle of Success has been structured to ensure that you make the necessary effort. Every day you’ll be motivated — by us, by your peers, by marketers waiting to look at your work, by the coaches you’ll work with — to make one small step forward. Day by day, week by week, month by month … your knowledge and confidence will grow.

You will no longer struggle with the letter-writing process.

The words and ideas will simply come to you …

You’ll know instinctively how to grab your reader’s attention … how to speak to him in a respectful yet convincing tone … how to gain his trust … how to build his excitement and acceptance with every paragraph … and, most importantly, have him wanting to buy what you’re selling long before the letter ends.

Circle of Success will give you every resource you need to succeed. We’ll provide you with the inspiration to learn and write each and every day.

You’ll have people you can call on with issues or questions … free access to AWAI’s Bootcamps, where so many of our most successful people gained the knowledge and made the connections that moved them many steps forward very quickly.

You’ll have the opportunity to work with professional copywriters on your copy.

And, of course, you’ll have AWAI’s complete library of resources, where more than

120 programs, books, and writing products will be yours for the asking — anytime you need them, for as long as you maintain your Circle of Success membership … plus, whenever possible, you’ll get substantial discounts on products offered by AWAI’s partners.

So, what does it take to get in?

Circle of Success is a lifetime program that entitles you to virtually every learning resource that we can offer you for as long as you need them.

If you were to add up the cost of everything beyond the value of all the resources you can take from our library — year after year of Bootcamp … the one-on-one coaching with Paul or Don every year … the unlimited critiques … the high-level access … the value of building a professional portfolio … the people you’ll meet and associations you’ll form …

It all could add up to a $70,000 to $80,000 value … at least.

Knowledge That Can Earn You a
“Comfortable Six Figures” — for the Rest of Your Life

And considering that Circle of Success membership can give you the skills that can earn you a $200,000 to $400,000 annual income as a copywriter — and all the freedom that goes with it — it is, without question, an investment well worth that price!

That’s why, at a onetime cost of $12,500, we believe Circle of Success is an extraordinary value. For the cost of a single semester at a good liberal arts college, you can get a complete education within a specific industry where writers are not only in high demand … but are paid extraordinarily well.

Remember — a single promotion can pay you well in excess of that when you factor in writing fees and royalties. Copywriter and AWAI co-founder Paul Hollingshead tells me his average pay for a single letter works out to somewhere between $20,000 and

$30,000. Some letters have paid him over $100,000 because the clients keep using them over and over again!

Even if you take on smaller, quicker jobs, you can easily make back that $12,500 in two or three months using the skills you’ll learn as a Circle of Success member.

Frank Fellhauer told us he landed two clients within months of joining:

“If it wasn’t for the confidence I quickly gained from the tools, tips, and techniques that empowered me through the Circle of Success, I wouldn’t have had the courage to approach either of these first two clients.”

And Sean McCool, who tells us he’s on track to earn $180K as a freelance copywriter this year, has this to say about COS:

“In late 2008 when Circle of Success opened up, I jumped in, even though money was very tight. It was a moment of decision and commitment that changed my life. At the time, I was eking out a living as a handyman. Now, just a few years later, I’m a living, breathing example of a six-figure copywriter. Right now, just one of my several clients is one of the most successful direct-response companies in the world. That’s the power of commitment and Circle of Success.”

And there’s COS member and now AWAI contributor Mindy Tyson McHorse who credits Circle of Success to her six-figure income:

“I never could have done it without all the access and support I gained from COS. Not only that, but it keeps on going. Even though I’m already blessed to be living the writer’s life, opportunities and bonuses are still coming my way — all because of my COS membership.”

Of course, our goal is to make Circle of Success accessible and affordable to anyone ready to make a substantial commitment to their career and future. So one thing we do is offer a $3,150 discount to those who are AWAI members already. And because you’ve purchased from AWAI in the past, that includes you.

So, very quickly, the price of membership for you drops to 10,000.

If you’d prefer not to pay that all at once, we offer payment plans — spread over 24 months. All we ask is that you activate your Circle of Success membership with an initial $995 payment — followed by additional payments on a schedule that best suits you:monthly, quarterly, even every six months.

And there’s this:

If you purchased any resources from AWAI in 2011, we’ll credit the total amount you paid towards your Circle of Success membership.

If, for instance, you bought a $497 program in 2011 — you’ll get instant credit for it. If you purchased several programs this year, we’ll simply add up the dollars you spent and subtract the total from your already discounted Circle of Success price.

If you’re in a position to pay for your Circle of Success membership in full — either by check or credit card — you get another discount … a substantial one at that. For you, membership is just $8,500 — a full $1,500 off the price — less any purchases you made from us in 2011.

Let me quickly recap what you’ll get:

• You’ll get a personalized “CAPS” Plan, where we work together to determine a career path that’s best for you.
• You’ll be assigned to your Circle Group, where you’ll meet, mix, and work with fellow copywriters, new and experienced alike — and have full access to the special Circle of Success website.
• You’ll be immediately enrolled in the first three Targeted Learning Sessions, covering the core elements of a successful ad: Headline, Lead, and Structure. When you’re ready, you can sign up for the “Getting Clients” session, where you’ll learn the “business” side of becoming a freelance writer.
• You’ll have access to a variety of live assignments that you will use to build your portfolio, and we’ll work with you to create a self-promotion package and website.
• You’ll have access to unlimited copy reviews by working copywriters who will give you feedback on your headlines and leads as well as suggestions for improvements.
• You’ll be entitled to one personal coaching consultation with Don or Paul each year — where you’ll work shoulder to shoulder, from conception to completion, on that one promotion you really want to nail.
• You can attend any and all Bootcamps at no charge — for as long as you’re a
• Circle of Success member.
• You’ll have direct access to AWAI and AWAI’s partners through your very own Circle of Success liaison.
• And, last but not least, every resource in the AWAI library — current and future, over $53,000 worth and growing — free, for life, as well as the deepest discounts on any resource offered to AWAI members by our friends and partners.

Much more about your Circle of Success membership will be explained to you once you sign up. In fact, be prepared to hear from us often — about what to do next and how to proceed. We’ve put together an entire team here at AWAI just to ensure that you and your success are our Number One priority.

Rest assured, too, that things will get very busy for you from here on in. On November 21st you’ll have an orientation call where all your Circle of Success benefits will be explained. Next, we’ll set up your CAP meeting, where together we work out an initial career path that’s best for you. Soon thereafter, you’ll be starting your online “Headline” learning session.

You’ll be learning at a very fast pace. Time will move quickly. It won’t be long before you look back and ask yourself, “Where did the days go?” … amazed at how much knowledge you’ve soaked up in such a short period of time.

And what if you join but then decide Circle of Success is not for you?

Yes, You Can Try the Circle — Risk-Free

No problem. Just let us know within 60 days of starting your membership and we’ll refund anything you’ve paid to us, whether it’s the full amount or the first installment of your payment plan. All we respectfully ask is that you understand that you’ll no longer have access to any of the online resources you may have selected … unless, of course, you’d like to keep them and want us to deduct the cost from your refund.

We’ll simply stop your remaining installment charges or, if you paid in full, issue a prorated refund (based on two years, less the amount of whatever resources you’d like to keep) — and open your spot up to someone else.

So, you see, there really is no risk.

We’re very excited about this opportunity.

We’re excited for you … and the impact Circle of Success will have on your success, both as a copywriter and a direct-marketing expert. Just as it has for so many AWAI members over the three years we’ve been offering this very comprehensive learning program.

Click here to sign up for Circle of Success online now.

If you’ve purchased AWAI resources in 2011 and you’d like to know what your final discounted price is – or you just feel more comfortable dealing with a live person -- please call Debbie, Pat or Cameron during regular business hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST at 866-879-2924.

Debbie, Pat or Cameron will not only tell you how much of an additional discount you have coming, they can also sign you up over the phone, answer any questions you might have, make sure you have access to everything immediately, … even set up specially tailored payment arrangements for you if you need them.

We very much hope to hear from you.

There’s much to accomplish in the weeks and months ahead — so let’s roll up our sleeves together and get started.

Here’s to your success!

Sincerely,


Katie Yeakle

Executive Director, AWAI

P.S.  Just to be clear … once midnight on November 14th rolls around, we won’t be accepting any more Circle of Success members for this session. Reason being, this is a carefully planned and “structured” program where you’ll be learning something new each and every week — and then applying these skills to whichever live spec assignment you’re working on. If you were to come in late, you’d be too far behind — and might not get the most out of the program.

Plus, there’s a very real chance The Circle will fill up quickly, as interest is always high when we open the doors to this level. That’s why if you’re interested — I urge you to get in now.

An instant $2,500 ‘Summer Session’ discount …

Remember, there’s the instant $2,500 discount we’re offering off the price through this offer.

Less anything you’ve paid this year …

Plus you can deduct the full amount you paid for any AWAI resource you may have purchased since January 2011 from your final price. (If you’d like to know all the discounts you’re entitled call 1-866-879-2924 during regular business hours. If you’d prefer to order online, we will look up your account information and credit anything you’ve bought to the final price within three business days of receiving your on-line reservation.)

Don’t forget too, you can “pay over time” if that works best for you … or pay in full and get an additional $1,500 discount…

All Guaranteed!

Also know you have 60 days to decide if you’re up to the task. If not, simply return any program materials and let us know, and you’ll get any money you’ve paid for your Circle of Success membership back in full.

P.P.S. Remember: If you’re concerned about affording Circle membership beyond the initial $995 payment — and you absolutely want to be a part of Circle of Success this time around — please call Barb, Cameron, Debbie, or Pat toll-free at 1-866-879-2924. I’m confident there’s something we can arrange for you.

Click here now to join
Circle of Success!

From current Circle of Success members ...

Click here now to join
Circle of Success!

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American Writers & Artists Inc.
245 NE 4th Ave., Ste 102
Delray Beach, FL 33483
(561) 278-5557 or (866) 879-2924
www.awaionline.com