The Strategic Approach to Becoming a Successful Writer
Will Newman
It’s human nature to put things off for “just a little while.”
Amid the clatter of plates and glasses during lunch break at this year’s Bootcamp, Carol Parks told me she had put copywriting success on hold when she first got The Accelerated Program just like Les Worley had. But in Carol’s case, she devised an unusual strategy for getting herself back on track.
While this strategy has pushed her closer to her dream of being a successful copywriter, it’s a strategy you could use for accomplishing any of your important life goals.
But first, a little about Carol:
I’m a mom of five children – three sons and two daughters. I homeschooled my children. And for all those years until the end, I also ran a private piano school and taught anywhere from 45 to 60 students a week.
I did this in three different states as I followed my husband around for his corporate jobs. And frankly, I was burned out … especially with teaching my own children in their subjects, then turning around and teaching piano for six more hours.
I was looking for a change. Looking to find out what my next step should be. I tried selling real estate for a couple of years. I decided I’d never see my kids grow up if I kept that up. I was working 60 hours a week to make a pittance.
So I got the “Can you write a letter like this one” letter. I thought it looked good. My kids had started to fly the coop, so I was looking for something that would allow me to travel. So I ordered The Accelerated Program. I promptly put it on my bookshelf where it sat for three years.
[This is Will again. I’ve heard Carol’s story repeated many times. AWAI members who buy the program and let it sit. Potential members who plan on buying the program but put it off. As you learned from Les’s story yesterday, some members let it sit for a long, long time. But what Carol did next made a huge difference in her life.]
In 2006, I got an invitation to come to Bootcamp. The invitation was so compelling, I knew I had to go. But I had a hard time justifying spending money on Bootcamp when I had The Accelerated Program gathering dust on the bookshelf.
So I negotiated with myself. “I would sign up for Bootcamp,” I told myself. But I would go only if I finished The Accelerated Program. This was August, so I only had a couple of months to get it done. So I made time everyday to work on the program.
I finished the program before Bootcamp, and off I went. I’m so glad I did because by the time I got through Bootcamp, I was committed to “I can do this!”
I joined COS while I was at Bootcamp that year. I had the same discussion with myself about COS that I had about Bootcamp. About the expense. But I couldn’t see passing up all the benefits like access to all the AWAI programs, and the Targeted Learning Programs like Headlines and Leads.
So I joined Circle of Success on the payment plan. Joining made me feel like I’m in the loop. What I mean by that is having instructors, other COS members, and AWAI staff who can support me when I need it.
That support from COS – and the belief in myself that support gives me daily – helped my career immediately. I landed a client from Job Fair at that very same Bootcamp. And I’ve been working as a copywriter ever since.
I asked the Circle of Success friends I met with to tell me a lesson they’ve learned from COS, or Bootcamp, or being a copywriter … a lesson they wanted to pass on to you. Only I didn’t ask Carol since she’d woven her lesson into her conversation with me.
Carol’s lesson is a very effective strategy she used to propel her success … a strategy you can easily use.
Like other AWAI members, after getting The Accelerated Program, Carol put it aside to “pick it up soon.” But Carol put it someplace – on a prominent bookshelf – where, in her words, “it nagged me constantly.”
Keeping her goal of being a successful copywriter visible daily eventually worked its magic. Now, I’m not suggesting you deliberately put The Accelerated Program or any other aspect of your success plan on hold. Never! You can always find a time, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day, to invest in your success.
But I am suggesting this: If you’ve stuck The Accelerated Program on a back shelf, pull it out right now. Put it on your kitchen table or someplace you’ll see it clearly. As you go by, touch it and tell yourself, “Today at 7 o’clock.” (Or whenever you can give it at least 15 minutes.)
Then do it!
Maybe it’s not The Accelerated Program you’ve put on hold. Maybe you’ve been putting off joining AWAI in the first place.
When should you do that? There’s no better time than right now.
Whatever it is you’ve decided you need to be successful, make it visible. Then do it today. Don’t put it on hold for three years like Carol did. Or eight years like Les.
How long have you put off making those vital steps for success? What have you done – or what are you doing now – to get yourself moving? We’d all love to hear. Let us know in the comment section.
Tomorrow, you’re going to hear from another of my COS friends … this time a member who went from Air Force pilot to copywriter when we visit with Jim Panter.
Until then, keep writing!
The Professional Writers’ Alliance
At last, a professional organization that caters to the needs of direct-response industry writers. Find out how membership can change the course of your career. Learn More »
Hi Will,
I have some questions for you. The advertisements for the COS program mention that this program will help you become an A level copywriter. What is the difference between an A level copywriter and someone who has either recently completed the Accelerated Program or is still in the process of completing the Accelerated Program? What is a master copywriter? Are individuals just starting out as a copywriter called entry level copywriters? Thank you for your response.
Sheila – October 28, 2015 at 7:11 am
I'm getting all this stuff about the "Circle" .. I'm only half way through chapter 2 and have just begun to figure things out .. frankly, I cannot justify the expense .. and .. it seems to be a "cart before the horse" type of issue .. seems most have taken the bootcamp, circle route here .. it is possible that I could lose interest by the time I finish chapter 3
Animal – October 28, 2015 at 1:05 pm
Wills topic today really sang to me!
I have completed the Accelerated Copywriting Course,and for the first while I enthusiastically pursued clients,but haven't had any success so far. I am single and make barely enough at my full-time job to get by. I'm feeling discouraged and I'm now having trouble focusing on writing, and finding time to write. I'm not giving up,but I feel very lost right now...
Jason Bennett – October 28, 2015 at 1:15 pm
Thanks for sharing Carol's letter. I have been working the Accelerated Program, but recently had a break. Today is the day I will get back on it. I'm probably not the only person that was confused about the video companion series and the Accelerated Program. So, today is the day.
Thanks Brenda D
Guest (Brenda Drexler) – October 28, 2015 at 1:55 pm
What did they get that could be put on a shelf. My program is on the computer. It's not a book or CD.
Guest (Sue) – October 28, 2015 at 3:01 pm
Thanks for this article; I needed to read it today. I joined AWAI about a month ago and I have to say that I'm loving everything about it so far. There are times I feel completely overwhelmed by the sheer volume of materials to read and study but I keep plugging along. I've been hearing about COS for a couple of weeks and would love to join but it's simply not in the budget right now. Some day soon though! Thanks so much!
Guest (Alicia Denise) – October 28, 2015 at 3:44 pm
These stories are all well and good, we all have our own. I am very interested in succeeding at this, but at the moment I am just thankful to be alive. Like I told Rebecca I am starting my life over from scratch. I finally had the guts to walk out of a 30 year abusive marriage, but I had to leave with nothing. I managed to get a new car and I still have all that computer stuff, plus to buy. I do not need the stress of getting over extended at this point. I do not understand why that is so hard for you successful people to understand. So far, you all had way more than I did when you started. My car payment is my rent.
Guest (Nancy J Frederick) – October 28, 2015 at 5:11 pm
I agree with the above comments. After already investing $200, and barely getting started, how do I know spending another $8,000 will earn me money? I'm sold on the dream, now stop trying to 'sell' me other stuff! Jason, your comment is my worry. I don't want to spend so much time copying letters about fishing if I'm not going to be able find clients. And how can we connect with other copywriters and get help and guidance, etc., without COS?
Michellek – October 28, 2015 at 5:49 pm
Hello all! I am a member for 1&half years and I UNDERSTAND what each one of you is going through right now. I've seen several concerns over the cost of COS and Bootcamp and all the information overload. First I will say everyone has their own pace and in different situations in their life right now. Noone is going to match the next person on speed or budget. I missed the first Bootcamp and first COS sign up because I, too, was just trying to swallow the Accelerated program. There is a lot of---v
Sarah S – October 29, 2015 at 4:42 pm
-->of Info to consume. I recommend you try to swallow the Accelerated program first and then decide if you are still serious enough to invest further or if this is not your thing. I'm proud to have met some very successful copywriters at this past Bootcamp. It confirmed for me that this is the real deal and you can be successful if you apply yourself. COS and Bootcamp are EXTREMELY VALUABLE steps to take-but only when you are ready. If the budget just isn't there right now then make it a ----v
Sarah S – October 29, 2015 at 4:45 pm
-->a goal to work towards doing the next year. You can change your future when you are ready and able. But it does take perseverance. Nothing happens until you make it happen. With the concern about finding support without joining the costly things-I recommend AWAI's groupsite. It is there for you as a regular member just starting out. And it is still extremely valuable to me. The groupsite gives you the chance to ask questions, relate to others, and get your writing reviewed. Some people---v
Sarah S – October 29, 2015 at 4:50 pm
-->Some people HAVE started their careers straight out of the Accelerated program. Then some others preferred more learning and preparation. This all depends on your how ready you feel you are. I hope this helps some of you! Sorry if this was long!
Sarah S – October 29, 2015 at 4:53 pm
I really enjoyed reading this one Will...! It hit home and I have to admit, I am one of those people. Your letter is very encouraging, and really motivating. What has been on my mind, is this question: will I commit to this, or simply make an investment, that will loose its glitter as soon as I get the prize home. I am struck on the fence about this decision. That is my problem...!
Guest (Writer1) – October 29, 2015 at 5:51 pm
Before responding to some of the earlier comments, I want to thank Sarah for her very extensive comments to the other posters. So … thank you, Sarah.
I echo her implied comment that no one should feel compelled to join COS or buy any of the programs AWAI offers. I agree that members should tackle the Accelerated Program to find out if copywriting is something you want to pursue. But I can guarantee that while COS members get special perks (that's part of the program), AWAI values all its members and treats all equally.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 6:19 pm
Hi Sora,
You pose great questions. If you're just starting in copywriting, you would be considered an entry-level copywriter. The term A-level copywriter is not a strictly defined term, but it means a copywriter who has mastered the deeper secrets and strategies of copywriting. Theoretically an entry-level copywriter could be writing at an A-level, though it's not likely. (Practice makes perfect is more than a cliché.)
MORE ---->
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 6:37 pm
CONTINUED ANSWER TO SORA'S QUESTIONS
And a master copywriter is a copywriter who's been writing long enough to have a large number of copywriting successes under the belt, copywriters like Carline Anglade-Cole, Jen Stevens, Clayton Makepeace, and Paul Hollingshead.
All that said, copywriters shouldn't worry about where in this mix they are. They should write, write, and write some more. With enough writing, the categories take care of themselves.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 6:40 pm
Hello Animal (good nick!),
You have an excellent perspective on your career path. As I said previously, you should not feel you have to join Circle of Success. My articles this week were intended as a glimpse at five of the COS members I've gotten to know. Even though my friends may speak about COS to some degree, there are good takeaways for everyone in their words. In Carol's case, one takeaway is not to let your dreams gather dust on the shelf.
I hope that provides some perspective.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 6:45 pm
Hi Jason,
I understand the frustration of trying to find clients. My first paying client paid me $50 and some comic books. (It was a comic book store.) But the important thing I advise all the members who've mentioned similar frustrations is not to give up. Success often comes slowly at first, but if you stick with it, it snowballs.
I don't know where specifically you are in your career. If you haven't finished the Accelerated Program, do so. Be sure to submit exercises. But while you're working on whatever program you're working on, keep looking for clients.
Oh, by the way, I helped the comic book store win a national award and eventually was paid quite a bit more.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 6:52 pm
Hello Brenda,
Congratulations for getting back to your Accelerated Program.
Much success!
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 6:53 pm
Hello Sue,
Les & Carol ordered the Accelerated Program back in the "binder days" when the program was printed. I got it before AWAI even put it in a binder. So those of you who are working on the program on a computer have a tremendous advantage over us old timers.
So if you're tempted to "put the program on the back shelf" today, make a huge sign reminding yourself that the Accelerated Program is waiting for you.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 6:57 pm
Hello Alicia,
I know there is a real risk of getting overwhelmed with all the materials. Planning and scheduling will help alleviate some of that feeling. I've written a number of articles about this for AWAI. Do a search on "scheduling" or "schedule" to see if anything in the AWAI article archives can help you maintain your infectious enthusiasm.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 7:00 pm
Hello Nancy,
Congratulations on taking the huge step in your life that you did. I agree that you must not get over-extended. There may be some point in the future where you feel you can join Circle of Success. You'll know when that is … if indeed you ever decide to do so, financial circumstances notwithstanding.
It does sound like you're in a very tight position, and I respect you for working to make it better.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 7:05 pm
Hello Michelle K,
I hope some of my previous comments have helped you see that you should not feel pressured to join Circle of Success. At some point in the future you might … or might not. However, you bring up a good point about AWAI "trying to sell" to you. That's what they do. They offer copywriting training to people and in order to fulfill their mission to train outstanding copywriters, they have to sell their programs. And they are good at selling. Do you realize that every email from them, every landing page you see, is a model of great copywriting. So, don't worry about being sold stuff. Instead, look at the sales materials as training materials!
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 7:12 pm
Sorry, Michelle, I forgot to address your question about connecting with other members. Yes, Circle of Success is a great way to do it, but not the only way. Go to the AWAI forums and seek out other members to form your own support/success group. You can do it!
Will Newman
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 7:14 pm
Hello Writer1,
You show great insight in your comment. While you say "that is my problem," you're really acknowledging that the solution is in your hands. Give the decision careful thought. Take a piece of paper and divide it down the middle. On the left, lest all the positives. On the right, all the negatives.
Now you could take a CPA's approach and see how the balance works out. However, as you're making the lists, you're really tapping into how you really feel.
I hope this helps.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 29, 2015 at 7:18 pm
I've saved all the articles from AWAI for "when I have more time". Now, after reading this one, I know I'm not alone in feeling stuck and overwhelmed. So now I'm scheduling time this afternoon to get started.
Guest (Robin R) – October 30, 2015 at 11:33 am
Dear Robin,
EXCELLENT! I admire you for making that decision.
Best wishes,
Will
Will Newman – October 30, 2015 at 7:38 pm