Copywriting alongside your day job
Write web pages, emails and adverts for small businesses in evenings and weekends, paid per project.
- £0-400
- Side hustle
- From home
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
What it is
Writing marketing text such as website pages, product descriptions, email newsletters and adverts for businesses that lack the time or confidence to write their own.
Your first three steps
- Write three sample pieces, such as a web page, an email and an advert, for real or made-up businesses
- Set up a simple one-page website or online profile showing your samples and prices
- Contact local businesses and web designers you know and offer a discounted first project in return for a testimonial
Who pays
Small local businesses, start-ups, web designers and marketing agencies who need extra writing help.
How it makes money
A fixed fee per project, such as a web page or an email sequence. Some writers also offer a monthly retainer for regular content.
Skills that help
- Clear, persuasive writing
- Good spelling and editing
- Asking clients the right questions
- Meeting deadlines
Watch out for
- Register as a sole trader with HMRC once you start earning, and check the rules on the trading allowance
- Check your employment contract in case it limits outside work
- Agree scope, number of revisions and payment terms in writing before you start
- Consider professional indemnity insurance, and check whether clients ask for it
- Check that your work is original and that you have the right to use any quotes or images supplied
Deep research report · UK
Everything you need to start: copywriting alongside your day job
Researched with live web search for United Kingdom: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.
- Startup costs with real prices
- Licences, registration and rules
- Pricing: what others charge
- Break-even example
- Finding your first customers
- 30-day launch plan
- Risks and how to reduce them
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to start copywriting on the side?
Startup costs are typically around £0 to £400, depending on whether you need a simple website, software or insurance. These are estimates, and many people begin with a laptop they already own.
How much can I earn from copywriting part-time?
Monthly revenue is typically around £150 to £1,000, depending on how many projects you take on and your rates. These are estimates, and with at least around 4 hours a week available, income will depend on your time and client base.
What should I check before starting copywriting alongside a job?
Check you register as a sole trader with HMRC once you start earning, and the rules on the trading allowance. Also check your employment contract for limits on outside work, agree scope and payment terms in writing, and consider professional indemnity insurance.
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