So, you need words. Lots of words. Website words, sales page words, email words—words that make people click, buy, and maybe even do a little happy dance because your message just gets them. But here’s the million-dollar question: should you write it yourself or bring in a pro? If you’re currently staring at a blinking cursor, weighing the pros and cons of typing out your own copy versus outsourcing to someone who actually enjoys this stuff, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down.
The Case for DIY Copywriting
Writing your own copy can be a great option if:
- You know your brand voice like the back of your hand. If you can effortlessly channel your brand’s personality into words, you’ve got a head start.
- You have time to experiment and refine. Good copy takes drafts. Lots of drafts. If you have the patience to write, rewrite, and tweak until it clicks, DIY could work.
- Your budget is tighter than your deadline. Hiring a copywriter is an investment. If you’re bootstrapping and willing to put in the effort, writing your own copy might be a short-term necessity.
- You love writing (or at least don’t hate it). If crafting a clever subject line excites you more than picking out fonts for your website, you might actually enjoy writing your own copy.
DIY Pitfalls to Watch For
- You’re too close to your own business. Writing about your own offers can feel like trying to describe a color that doesn’t exist. You get it, but can you make sure your audience does?
- You risk sounding generic. Without a clear strategy, DIY copy often leans on clichés, and “professional but boring” is not the vibe you want.
- You might spend WAY too much time. What a pro can whip up in an afternoon might take you days (or weeks) of frustration.
- SEO? Conversions? Strategy? Copywriting is more than putting words on a page. If you’re not considering how your words perform, they might not work as well as they should.
Pro Tip: If you go the DIY route, invest in a copywriting course or a great book on persuasive writing. Having a solid foundation in copy principles will save you time and frustration.
The Case for Hiring a Copywriter
Bringing in a professional is a smart move if:
- You want copy that actually converts. Professional copywriters understand psychology, persuasion, and the tiny tweaks that make the difference between “meh” and “money-making.”
- You’re short on time. If your to-do list is already a mile long, outsourcing your copy lets you focus on what you do best.
- You need fresh eyes. A copywriter brings clarity and objectivity. They’ll help distill your message so it resonates with your audience—without the fluff.
- You’re ready to level up your brand. DIY is great for starting out, but pro-level copy elevates your business, making it look polished, credible, and, most importantly, profitable.
What a Copywriter Actually Does (Besides Make Words Sound Pretty)
- Research: They dig into your audience, competitors, and industry trends so your copy stands out.
- Strategy: Every word serves a purpose. A pro doesn’t just write—they craft messaging that supports your business goals.
- Optimization: Whether it’s SEO, conversion tactics, or brand consistency, a copywriter ensures your content isn’t just good—it’s effective.
- Brand Voice Development: If your messaging sounds different across different platforms, a copywriter helps create a unified, recognizable voice.
- A/B Testing & Refinement: Many copywriters work with businesses long-term, testing and improving copy based on real audience responses.
What Kind of Copywriter Do You Need?
Not all copywriters do the same thing. Before hiring one, ask yourself:
- Do I need website copy, sales emails, social media content, or something else? Some copywriters specialize in one area.
- Am I looking for short-term help or ongoing support? Long-term collaborations often yield better, more consistent results.
- Do I need a copywriter who understands my industry? Niche expertise can be a game-changer.
How to Decide: A Few Key Questions
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself:
- Do I have the time to write, edit, and refine my own copy? If yes, DIY might be feasible.
- Do I enjoy writing? If the thought of spending hours crafting the perfect email makes you miserable, hire a pro.
- Is my current copy bringing in leads and sales? If not, it might be time for a professional overhaul.
- Do I need copy for high-stakes areas (like a launch or homepage)? These areas need to be on point. A copywriter can make sure they are.
- Can I afford to invest in my messaging? Good copy pays for itself by increasing conversions and credibility.
So, What’s the Verdict?
If you love writing, have the time to refine your message, and enjoy the process, DIY might be your best bet—at least for now. But if your copy isn’t getting results, takes too much time, or doesn’t feel quite right, hiring a pro is a game-changer. A copywriter doesn’t just write words—they craft messaging that resonates, persuades, and sells. And in the end, great copy isn’t an expense—it’s an investment. And hey, if you’re leaning toward hiring a copywriter… I might know someone. 😉
