This time, instead of delivering some mini-sermon on the benefits of a positive attitude, I am asking for an opinion.
See, last year I decided to try something new. We took a very expensive course in the art of running an online business. We believed, between the two of us, that we had the talent and the resources to make a success of the venture, and maybe we could even give up our cleaning business and earn a comfortable living from home.
Well, we failed dismally. I see now that, in our ignorance, we didn’t understand that US based concepts don’t always translate into the Australian business scene. I was very angry at myself for having wasted all that money; money I might add which we could ill afford.
But, now that the dust has settled, I find myself once again considering another ‘venture’. Now, admittedly, this one will cost less than one-fifth of the previous expenditure. However I am still not readily able to trust my own judgement. Perhaps I should just accept that I am Sadie, the cleaning lady, and will be until I finally hang up my mop and bucket for good.
Then again…..???
This time I’m looking at taking a course in Copywriting. Writing is, and always has been, an important part of my life. The problem is that I’ve finally realized I will never make it as a fiction writer. There is just not enough depth to the well of my imagination.
I find I work best when I have a specific subject on which to write. I enjoy taking courses, because it gives me direction, structure and purpose.
I’ve done my homework this time. The course I’m considering is run by an Australian from an Australian base. One of the glowing testimonials written about the teacher was penned by some one we know personally. We used to work for him a few years ago - so there is no doubt that this is for real. And there is even a written guarantee stating that if I do not at least recoup the cost of the course within six months of completion, then my money will be refunded.
It sounds like a win-win situation, and yet I vacillate. I would be interested to hear your opinions. Can anyone tell me if it would be worth the outlay to take a Copywriting Course? Or could I learn the art of copywriting just as easily from the reference material available for free on the Internet?
©Lyn Murphy 2011
4 comments:
Hi Lyn,
I can't offer any advice specific to pursuing a career in copy-writing or on what you can expect as a return for taking the course that you've described.
However, it appears that you've done your homework and that you have a real interest in exploring what copy-writing has to offer. Based on those things I'd say: if you can work the cost of the course into your budget and the time for the course into your schedule there doesn't seem to be a downside, given the guarantee.
Trust your instincts. None of us are destined to be anything that we do not want to be, so long as we remain open to possibilities and hungry for the next challenge. Good luck, whichever way you choose to go with this.
Ray
Lyn, I goggled copywriter just to see...there are tons of little companies...i just don't know ...seems to be that is the main way they are making money...selling their training courses...depending on the cost it might be fun just to take the course to see if it is what you think it will be ..but not depend on it to get you your dream job...I always wanted to be a Master Gardener but never would pay the money for the year long course...figured I could learn it from books...but here I am years later still thinking about it..
Hi Lyn!
Ok, firstly, why do you not believe you will make it as a writer?
Secondly, I actually investigated becoming a proofreader to earn a few extra bob whilst at home with 'Bubble...even going to the extent of researching courses to become accredited. I looked over being a copywriter too. What I did see was that it was competitive but that there was work out there.
I'd say if the course accredits you like the one I looked at http://www.sfep.org.uk/default.asp
(although this is a UK one), then why not? And if you're prepared to push for the work, then why not? I think it's harder than it looks but passion will carry you far.
Ultimately, I think Ray has a point. Trust your instincts. My instincts told me that whilst I'd be good at it, now wasn't the time. I'm full time to 'Bubble and I do not have the energy to put into proofreading.
Does that help?
:o)
I have no advice, but I do think it's always good to follow your head as well as your heart!
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