Success Story:
Interview With Budding Copywriter and AWAI Member Krista Jones

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.