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

Over fifteen years ago, following a move halfway around the world, I started an e-commerce business that sold high-end fashion accessories.

In those days, websites were still very smoke and mirrors. There were no DIY platforms, so design agencies were the only route available. The costs to build a decent website fifteen years ago were eye-watering.

So, after I’d blown my marketing budget on a stunning site, I soon discovered that much of the ‘getting the word out’ was going to come down to me. I swiftly learned how to craft a media release that cut the mustard and became a very early adopter of content marketing.

After a few years, I decided I enjoyed the writing more than everything else. So, I ditched the handbags and sparkly trinkets for my keyboard, and the rest is history.

What work are you most proud of?

It’s hard to choose a particular piece of work or copy.

But I will say that I get the warm fuzzies when I’ve crafted copy for a business and the owner or director says, ‘Oh, that’s what I’d say’, or ’That sounds just like me’. It makes me happy that I can capture voices well.

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

“Choose Love” for Help Refugees. It’s so simple. Surely everyone would choose love over the alternative.

For a charitable organisation that started with nothing but a hashtag, Help Refugees and their Choose Love campaign have been instrumental in cementing a 21st-century kindness economy which will hopefully continue to flourish.

As the creative agency (Glimpse) behind the campaign says, “Imagine a world where we all choose love”.

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

Step away from the keyboard and walk the dog. The peace and quiet of the West Sussex countryside always inspire me.

If a bracing walk doesn’t help my next port of call is usually a stiff gin and tonic, but only after 5pm!

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

I love my job, so there aren’t any writing-related tasks I dislike. But I hate working under pressure; it just isn’t the way I operate.

Any copywriting pet hates?

Short deadlines.

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

Work with people you like. It just makes life simpler! I believe connection is at the heart of everything a copywriter does.

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

Learn to ask the right questions of your clients. You will invariably find yourself writing about subjects you know very little about, and a few clicks on Google is not the panacea of research.

Why do you find ProCopywriters membership useful?

I believe ProCopywriters is a body that adds credibility to our profession, and being a member validates my integrity and professionalism. But, more than that the website is full of useful information and resources.

Where can people find out more about you?

I have two websites. Find me at copykate.co or katecoote.com