Why did you choose a career in copywriting and how did you get into it?

I used to be in magazine publishing, and had a career in that for 8 years, but was completely miserable at heart.

After a period of stress-related ill health, I quit as a magazine editor and decided to try to become a freelance journalist instead. Nothing came of it, but I did get contacted by 3 different marketing agencies who wanted me to write on projects for them.

Pretty soon, I was getting regular work for a huge range of clients – and realised that I had fallen into a career which I loved, and that I was also good at. Fast forward two years and I now have a very rewarding career in freelance copywriting.

Plus, I get to work from home, which is great as I have a non-visible disability that couldn’t be supported in the hours of a full-time office role.

What work are you most proud of?

I was very happy indeed when I got approached to write promotional and branding materials for huge global brands owned by GSK and P&G such as Physiogel, AquaFresh and Always.

What piece of copy do you really wish you’d written?

I’d love to write for more fashion brands, as I love everything to do with fashion and clothing (as reflected in my extensive wardrobe).

What do you do if you hit a bit of writer’s block?

I’ve never actually suffered from writer’s block personally, but I do get tired if I’m writing large volumes of copy for a client in a single day. Regular breaks are always key, which is where working from home comes into its own.

What are your favourite and least and favourite writing-related tasks?

I love anything travel-related as I’m obsessed with travelling and seeing the world. I’ve written travel blogs before which have inspired my own travels.

I don’t have a least-favourite writing task – I consider anything new or a more dense subject to be a challenge, which is also great too, as you need to make that subject interesting and engaging.

Any copywriting pet hates?

I’ve had ‘potential clients’ who have asked me to do ‘test articles’ for them before a contract. I wrote the copy, sent the articles and never heard from them again. I won’t be falling for that one again!

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve been given?

‘Success is the best revenge’.

What advice would you give to people starting out on a copywriting career?

You’ve got to keep on keeping on. There will be quiet days, and busy days, but it’s all about sourcing work ahead of time and building up a good reputation and name for yourself.

Why do you find ProCopywriters membership useful?

Procopywriters is great as it enables potential clients to get in touch with you directly about a job or project. Likewise, you can search job boards and apply for a project you’d like to work on.

Where can people find out more about you?

Visit my website: www.emilyhaddington.co.uk