I am a copywriter.
I am also a content writer.
Confused?
You won't be after this week's episode of Soap.
(Okay, okay, dated reference, I know).
You may be saying 'A writer is a writer, so what is the difference?'
Good question.
A copywriter serves a very different function from a content writer, or creator.
A copywriter writes sales content.
It could be an email as part of a marketing funnel.
It could be ad copy.
It could be product descriptions.
But the aim of copywriting is to make the sale.
Content writing serves a different purpose.
It is meant to provide background, context, inform, entertain.
It could be an article about a university alumni and their reason for making a planned gift.
It could be a blog post about changes in tax law.
It could be an annual report.
Or it could be content you create that sits at the consideration point of the marketing funnel, such as thought leadership posts.
It can be helpful in generating a sale because it provides insights, but that is not its general purpose.
I've done content writing, too.
I am making this distinction because it is an important one for you to make in any marketing effort.
It will greatly influence the results you get.
If you are looking to create awareness and consideration, you are more likely looking for a content writer or creator.
If you are looking at conversions, you want a copywriter.
I should note that not all writers will make this distinction.
They see copy as content.
And they may well be equipped to deliver what you need.
Even so, these are two very distinct disciplines.
And thus there are compelling reasons to look closely at any writer you hire so you know their strengths, their focus, and how that will help you achieve your goals.
Or, you can look for someone who has a strong background in both and then all your needs are met.