Why did you choose a career in copywriting, and how did you get into it?
I had a bit of an unconventional route to copywriting. I was in the final year of my biochemistry degree when I decided to do a literature project rather than a lab-based one. I realised I enjoyed writing more than lab work and wanted to do more of it.
Soon afterwards I did a postgraduate diploma in journalism and after that I worked in various communication roles as a journalist, comms officer for a charity and eventually as a health copywriter for Boots.
What work are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the work I’ve done to improve allergy awareness. I did it off my own back because it’s something that’s close to my heart since my daughter has a peanut allergy.
I managed to secure coverage in national media like SkyNews and WalesOnline and I pushed myself out of my comfort zone when I was interviewed on ITV news.
Using my skills to make a difference is important to me and is one of the reasons I specialise in health writing and working with charities.
What piece of copy do you wish you’d written?
I’ll go with the title of one of my favourite books Trick or Treatment – it takes an in-depth look at alternative medicine and is very readable. As someone who feels strongly about tackling health misinformation I feel everyone should read it.
What do you do if you hit a bit of writer’s block?
I take a break and get a change of scenery. I feel that forcing it rarely works. I’m a big believer in regular breaks and getting out in nature. It helps me work more efficiently and stay focused.
What are your favourite and least favourite writing-related tasks?
I love researching topics and learning new things – whether that’s by interviewing people or reading original research.
My least favourite task is probably promoting my work through social media for example. Self-promotion still doesn’t come easy but I know it’s important so I do it anyway – especially since I want people to read my work. The irony of saying this while writing about myself is not lost on me!
Any copywriting pet hates?
Clickbait – it’s so common but in the long term it’s just not a good strategy. Sensational or misleading headlines are a definite no-no in health writing especially.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve been given?
Being brave is more important than being confident.
What advice would you give to people starting out on a copywriting career?
Always keep learning. No matter how long you’ve been writing there’s always something new you can learn.
Whether that’s by doing some training online or starting your own blog where you can try out new ideas.
Why do you find ProCopywriters membership useful?
The online training it offers.
Where can people find out more about you?
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-bull/