Success Story:
Interview With Budding Copywriter and AWAI Member Krista Jones
Like Peter F. (the AWAI member we interviewed in the last issue of The Golden Thread Online), Krista Jones attended our last bootcamp, took us up on our copy challenge – and wrote a package that's good enough for a test mailing.
We recently talked to Krista to find out what this experience has been like for her.
TGT: Krista, tell us how you got into copywriting.
KJ: I've worked as an environmental scientist for the past 19 years. I'm not passionate about my work, so I've been looking for another career. I tried a few things part time, but nothing really kept my attention long. I've always been interested in writing, so I was intrigued when I received your letter. Since I really enjoy learning and researching, I decided to try copywriting.
TGT: As a member of our Guaranteed Success Program, you had the opportunity to come to our last bootcamp. What would you say was the most valuable thing you learned there?
KJ: The secret of the prism – understanding my prospect's belief systems and writing to his or her deeply held beliefs.
TGT: Through the GSP program, you were matched with Will Newman as your copywriting coach. What's it like working with him?
KJ: Working with Will has been great – he helps me see things from different angles. I've learned to write more informally and really focus on the benefits to the reader.
TGT: Michael Masterson saw your copy and asked to work with you himself. What did that feel like?
KJ: That anything is possible! Michael helped me learn how to structure a letter and how to use appropriate language. Also, how to apply the architecture of romance. (Coming from such a technical background, that was difficult for me to grasp.)
I liked the way Michael worked with me. Instead of telling me what needed to be fixed, he showed me. Michael edited the first part of my draft, then asked that I make similar changes to the rest of the letter. It was a very effective way for me to learn.
TGT: After getting this assignment under your belt, do you find yourself more confident about getting clients and completing projects on your own?
KJ: Definitely. I took this assignment to get some practice; I didn't really expect it to be tested. And getting to work with Michael was more than I ever dreamed of! Plus, now I have a strong sample to show prospective clients.
This really has boosted my confidence. Now I have more of a "knowing" that I can do this – and that I'll succeed.
You too can participate in our copywriting challenge … Visit Our $10K Challenge Page today!

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