Advice from copywriters please

[Dappledsunlight]

Hi, I'm seeking advice from experienced copywriters about whether to embark on this line of work. I have an MA in English and work p/t in education (support, non-academic role). Have taught French and written some learning support materials. Thinking of taking an online copywriting course. Have written a few articles in past for staff newsletter, other bits and bobs but this would be a new start for me. Fairly confident I have writing ability but I'm 53 and wondering whether: a) this is a young (er !) person's game and b) could anyone recommend an online course? Have researched a few & considering the College of Media and Publishing. Anyone done an online copywriting course and how was it and how easy was it to find work afterwards?
Any tips and advice welcome. Thanks.

[DesireeDT]

imho, it really depends on your niche. While there are some areas, where age will definitely play a role, there are many others, that don't. Personally I don't think you need a course, but rather invest a good chunk of time to research and educate on your own. There are one too many helpful resources out there. I would advise you to research on NLP (Neuro-linguistic Programming) and how to apply that to copywriting. + it really depends if you're thinking of sale copies, or maybe regular blogging?

[Dappledsunlight]

Thanks DesireeDT for your response. Interesting. ...hadn't considered NLP link. Can you expand on that please - do you mean this is a growth area and fertile employment possibilities?

[LonnyVonnyWilsonFrickett]

I think it's unlikely that you will need to shell out for an online course - and if you do, check them very carefully there are a lot of poor courses out there. I think much more productive to research your niche carefully before you make the decision. You work in education and you've already written resources so I'd suggest that's your niche right there! What is the market like for that kind of work/what's the rate/do they look for qualifications etc etc.

Very few successful copywriters write 'anything' - we all have our niche. For example, I tend to focus on internal communications but there are marketing writers in here, education writers, self help etc.

Writers' Forum is a good magazine and not too dear - I found it very useful for explaining a bit more about writing, although a large amount of it is focused to fiction writing.

[Dappledsunlight]

LonnyVonnyWilsonFrickett, thanks so much for that advice (what a marvellous op name btw!). I will give all these ideas some thought and check out Writer's Forum. Many thanks.

[GrumpyOldBag]

You don't need a course to learn to copywrite. You should have an idea if you have an aptitude.

But as PP said it will be more effective if you have a niche - focus on what you know.

[Dappledsunlight]

Thanks for all the advice.