Once you know who hires copywriters — and you have business cards, letterhead, and a basic Web site put together — your next step is to let as many potential clients as possible know about your copywriting services. There are many ways to get the word out. Here are some of the most effective strategies:

Write Articles

Most trade and professional publications will publish articles written by experts. If you write an article on copywriting for a local marketing newsletter, potential clients may notice your byline and give you a call! Focus your efforts on publications — print and online — related to advertising, marketing, communications, and public relations.

Speak at Meetings

There are numerous business groups and professional associations located within driving distance from your home. Contact the person responsible for meetings or educational events and ask if you can speak. Your topic will be, of course, copywriting.

These days you don't even have to attend in person. Many organizations hold teleseminars — mini seminars conducted on a teleconference line — for their members. They often invite special guest experts to participate.

Networking

Business meetings and events also are ideal for mingling and meeting potential clients. You don't even have to leave your home to do it. Many professional associations have forums, blogs, and discussion boards where you can chat with members online.

Pitch Letters

Mailing letters to potential clients is a very effective way to promote your services. You can build a list of company names and contacts that represents your ideal clients using business directories and the Internet. Write a letter introducing your services and describing how you might be able to help them achieve their sales, marketing, and PR goals.

Here is an excerpt from an effective pitch letter written by Pam Magnuson, a copywriting expert for the nutraceutical industry. (It's not shown here, but on the actual letter a bag of green tea is attached.)

Dear Friend,

As a busy marketer myself, I understand how occupied you are, and perhaps a bit stressed. You're invited now to sit back and relax with a nice cup of tea while you read my letter.

My name is Pam Magnuson. I'm a freelance copywriter specializing in nutraceutical and herbal marketing.

I've noticed that a great many websites for nutraceuticals and herbal products are missing a huge opportunity for profit. Many are not using powerful lead-generating (or order-generating) copy or techniques.

This has lead me to create a very informative report about how to easily have a dynamic, hard-working website…

Pam's pitch letter goes on to offer a free report for those prospects who visit her Web site. This is a very powerful lead-generating technique for freelancers.

Telephone Prospecting

Cold calling doesn't have to be frigid. Simply pick up the phone and politely introduce yourself and your services to potential clients. Say that you're available for freelance work and ask if you can e-mail them your contact information and link to your Web site. If you're friendly and not pushy, chances are most people will respond positively.

Watch for Opportunities

There are many other ways to reach out to potential clients. These are just the most common — and effective. Use your imagination. Always be on the lookout for opportunities to let people know about your freelance copy-writing services. Never give up. It may take a lot of time and effort to get that first client. But once you do, you'll be in business!