A Day In The Life Of A Freelance Copywriter

Being a freelancer in any field requires more than just expertise. It also requires discipline and self-motivation because there are no fixed working hours, and you’re working in the comforts of your home. You are your own boss.

This is just a guide on what a freelance copywriter might do on a daily basis. It is based on my personal experience and will vary from one individual to another. I’ll skip the stuff about feeding my cats and get right to it.

• Starting the Day

As a freelance copywriter, I communicate mainly via email and that is the first thing I do when I start my work day. I check my emails and respond to those that require my immediate attention. Often, there is a need to follow up with clients for reviews of work done. This is to ensure they have received it and to plan my time for rewrites when deemed necessary.

• Work, work, work

Then, it is down to business. I will begin with the job that is most urgent. All my jobs are prioritized as they come in. It may be copy for an ad, sales letter, website, or a blog post. I usually work in time pockets, not exceeding an hour before I take a breather, stretch and just chill for 15 minutes before resuming the tasks at hand.

• Marketing

Once the jobs are completed, it’s time to focus on marketing my services. This is vital for any freelancer. Without getting a steady stream of jobs, it would be difficult in terms of income. I reach out to existing clients by way of courtesy emails and phone calls at least once a month. I also spend time, not too much, posting updates on my blog, Facebook and Twitter accounts. When there is a need to, I will update my portfolio and LinkedIn profile.

• Administrative Upkeep

As a freelancer, I am also my own accountant. I’m not qualified, but I know enough to work out my fees in order to submit a quote when required, prepare invoices when the job is completed and to maintain the relevant records for tax purposes. While these tasks are not done on a daily basis, it is part of my routine on certain days.

I also spend a few hours every day doing research on the industries my clients are in. This keeps me current and tuned into their needs, and I do this in the evenings.

• Ending the Workday

Unwinding is important, and I spend at least an hour before bed, doing light reading or watching videos. Anything that is not related to work.

And there you have it -- a day in the life of a freelance copywriter!