Knowing the difference makes a difference.
Let’s clear something up before we get started…
Copywriting and copyrighting are not the same thing…at all.
The first is all about “wordsmithing” (a term used by everyone in the marketing/advertising industry except copywriters), in other words writing. And the other is about legal jargon. The kind of stuff that’ll put you in a coma.
These two get easily confused.
Now, on to the topic at hand: copywriter vs content writer.
Why does it matter?
Knowing the difference will help your business, especially when it comes to saving money by hiring the right person for the job.
However, there are a few similarities between copywriters and content writers, such as:
- The alphabet – both use the same 26 letters to ply their craft.
- Nope…that’s it. That’s all there is.
I know what you’re thinking;
But they both write!
Correct, but in different ways.
A copywriter?
A copywriter is essentially a salesperson. Their main aim is to persuade your target audience to buy your product. This content strategy is based on advertising, building brand awareness (more on that in a later blog), and influencing your audience.
Focused on short-form writing, a good copywriter can create a sense of urgency in your audience that encourages them to take quick action in making their decision.
A key skill, that’s sometimes undervalued, is the copywriter’s ability to uncover an ‘insight’ about your brand or product. This insight helps connect with your audience and differentiate you from your competitors.
A content writer?
A content writer focuses on delivering high-quality, relevant, and engaging content in the form of blogs, articles, and how-to guides. Their aim is to give your readers all the information they need to make a decision or form an opinion. They’ll build a relationship with your audience and help your business gain relevance with search engines.
Content writers have a great many skills they can bring to your business. They can adapt their writing to match a tone of voice, they have vast knowledge related to SEO best practices, and their content will help grow your business/brand into a thought leader for your industry.
Can the two cross over?
The simple answer? Yes…and no (ha!).
Let me explain.
Copywriter to content writer?
Yes.
Copywriting is a specialised skill that combines ideation (thinking) with craft (writing). Think of all the funny, emotional, and thumb-stopping ads and content you’ve seen. Copywriter.
However, demand for this skill is not as high as it should be (IMO). So, many copywriters have turned their hand to content writing. While writing long form isn’t their norm, they can learn to adapt quickly.
Over time, they’ll also learn how to structure the content for relevance, and their skill as a copywriter means they already know how to make it engage.
Content writer to copywriter?
No.
While writing is the main connection between the two disciplines, it’s ‘ideation’ that separates them.
Now, don’t get me wrong, content writers find amazing and insightful angles when it comes to blog and articles. Their writing is immaculate and engaging. But their main purpose is to inform, not sell, which requires a major shift in the way they think.
It’s even more difficult for a content writer to create brand awareness campaigns. Most campaigns are the result of digging through loads of information to get to that one nugget of truth that rings true for your audience.
Hiring matters.
Getting the right person for the job is always important, and the same goes for writers when it comes to your marketing.
Getting a content writer to craft your blogs means you’ll get informative, relevant, and well-structured content consistently. A quick read to make sure you’re happy and that’s it. No editing or adjustments.
Having a copywriter work on your sales collateral, website, campaigns, ensures you’ll have words that incite action and interest in your brand or product. Campaigns that keep your business top-of-mind for your existing and potential customers.
Shameless plug.
For over ten years I have worked as a copywriter and content writer for some big brands, and not so big brands. I’ve uncovered insights that lead national campaigns, and written blogs that highlighted the best truck stops in Australia. And a few radio spots that still stick in people’s minds.
Lhost4Words can deliver content that informs, sells, and engages with your customers so you’re always on their minds.
Reach out today if you’re looking to bring your brand to life.