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Leigh Marlow
Age:
36 years old
Background:
Grew up in Ocean Grove, Victoria
Studies/Educational background:
Bachelor of Building – Construction Management. Deakin University
Work history:
International Snow Sports Instructor (5 years), Travel @ home & abroad (3 years), Office Monkey (3-years)
Travel:
Definitely one of my favourite past-times. Sound like a wanker if I list places. Recently returned from 3-weeks in Borneo – awesome!
When did you decide to do the copywriting course and why?
A good friend suggested I could better utilise my talents. Looking for a challenge, to use my brain; to be well respected and financially rewarded. If I achieve half of these aims I’ll be very contented.
When did you complete the course?
5th of May, 2007 was a sad day.
What do you do now?
Freelance Copywriter. Pure Green Copywriting – professional writing, for the environmentally aware business.
How has the course helped you where you are today?
Specifically, the 'Home Study Folder' has given me the tools and confidence to approach SME's in regards to their copywriting needs.
What were the main things that you learnt that enabled you to get where you are today?
Copywriting is not 'Rocket Surgery' – learn all you can, hone your skills, and keep on going.
What is the best part about being able to write copy for money?
Choosing which projects are worthy of my time (and talent).
What aspects of copywriting do you like?
I really enjoy learning about different businesses and working alongside passionate people. Knowing I can play a small part in their future success is as real thrill.
What tips would you give someone who is considering becoming a copywriter?
Firstly, do Bernadette’s Course. This will give you the basics you need to get started – and decide to if it’s for you. Secondly, keep researching and learning your craft until you feel confident you can be of real benefit to business owners. And finally, get out there and speak to people and find out what they need. Then give it to them.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Unfortunately, I’m only able to think 2 years ahead. Ultimately, I’d like to work the 'fabled' and much dreamed about, 4-hour-day.
What qualities does a copywriter need in order to succeed?
Plenty. Writing skills and people skills come in handy. The desire for continual improvement. Belief in yourself, and in the work you’re doing.
How has copywriting changed your life?
I no longer wake up each morning dreading going to work. On the other hand, now I worry about attracting new clients, and maintaining great relationships with those I have.
If you were to choose your IDEAL client for your copywriting, who would you choose and why?
My ideal client appreciates and respects the work I do for them. I’ve been very fortunate to work alongside a number of 'ideal' clients so far.
What is your secret to creating successful copy?
Diligence. Care about what you're creating and why.
In 25 words or less describe your thoughts on Bernadette & her copywriting course.
So far, I've created Website copy, Sales Letters, a Newsletter, Brochures, an ad, and PR. At every stage, I was able to refer to The Folder. At no stage did I feel like an amateur.
A typical day in the life of...
One of my favourite things is that there is no 'typical' day. Marketing and running your own business requires one to wear many hats – baseball cap, beanie, sombrero and helmet. I’m really enjoying the variety. The one constant is spending lots of hours in front of a computer screen.
Quick 12 second quiz:
1. Dog or cat?
I have a cat who thinks it’s a dog.
2. My strength is...
Not taking things too seriously
3. My weakness is...
Not taking things too seriously
4. My friends would describe me as...
almost adequate
5. What frustrates me is...
Small text on a large computer screen
6. If only...
I could remember more keyboard short-cuts
7. If I had one last wish I would...
take a very long time to communicate it
8. Snow or Beach?
Both. Variety and contrast motivate me.
9. If I could change anything it would be...
very useful
10. My favourite color is...
The colour of my wife’s eyes... which I momentarily forget.
11. One word that describes me...
Clean
12. Finish this sentence: "Colors fade, temples crumble, empires fall, but wise words...
are often difficult to remember"
Biggest achievement in copywriting:
Finding a business name that no-one else had... Finally!
Who was your first client and how much money did you make?
Technically myself. Developing a website, writing articles and marketing my business enabled a better understanding of what SME’s are up against.
What has been your most lucrative job to date? (names of clients not necessary)
For me, this first six months is my copywriting apprenticeship if you like. Last week I had 1-hur of paid work, this week 14 hrs. My aim is to develop to the point where I have a reliable 15-20 hours of paid work, every week. Consistency and satisfied clients my 'Key Performance Indicators'.
Final comments...
"Happiness is a way station between too little, and too much"
Channing Pollock – US Author (1880 – 1946)
Your contact details that you’d like published:
http://www.puregreencopy.com.au
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