One of the first questions you’ll likely ask when investing in your marketing is: how much does a copywriter charge?
Hiring a copywriter might be something you’re considering, but you’re unsure whether it’s affordable, especially if you’re an SME or just starting out.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through what to consider and the typical costs involved when you work with me.
Is it worth hiring a copywriter?
When I speak to prospective clients, I always encourage them to think not just about the cost, but the value the work will bring. In fact, another helpful question is: ‘Can I afford not to hire a copywriter?’
Many businesses choose to write their own content, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But hiring a professional is an investment. It’s a bit like decorating your house yourself and then noticing uneven paintwork or splatters on the radiator – you know a decorator would have delivered a cleaner, more polished result.
It’s the same with copy. A professional writes every day, understands what engages an audience, and knows how to craft persuasive, targeted content.
Getting an informed external perspective
It’s surprisingly hard to write about your own business. Objectivity is difficult and, if it helps, I struggle writing about my own business too! I’d much rather write for a client. A copywriter brings a fresh pair of eyes, and clients often tell me I’ve spotted angles or strengths they’d never considered.
Time is another major factor. Writing website copy, blogs, or social posts is incredibly time-consuming. Outsourcing frees you up to focus on running your business, rather than wrestling with your marketing.
Setting out my costs transparently
Last year, I added indicative pricing to my website for the first time. You’ll find these costs on the ‘Services’ pages (e.g. website copywriting).
The aim is to give potential clients a clear idea of costs before we even speak, so we start with shared expectations. Of course, figures alone don’t tell the full story. As a copywriter, I’m generally involved in broader work beyond the writing. Website projects, for example, include competitor research, SEO work, and post-design revisions. So, it’s worth bearing this in mind when you ask for a quote. Always ask copywriters to list what’s included.
I outline what’s included on each service page, but I always recommend a call to go through the details.
I write an individual quote for every project because every client’s needs are different.
Different clients, different needs
I tailor my services to different budgets and priorities. That’s why the figures on my website are ‘ballpark’ – they give a general sense of cost, but every project is unique.
For example, one blog might require two or three interviews, while another might be based entirely on desk research. These subtle details shape the final quote.
Do you offer a free trial?
I’m occasionally asked this, and I always find it a slightly unusual question. Most people wouldn’t ask a plumber or builder for a free trial – and the same principle applies to the work I complete.
Copywriting is my livelihood, and like anyone else, I need to charge fairly for my time and expertise. I’m always happy to share examples of my work and put you in touch with past or current clients.
You’ll find plenty of client reviews on my LinkedIn page. I can’t edit these – clients have to post them themselves – so they’re completely honest and unbiased.
How much does a copywriter charge?
If you’re hiring a copywriter for the first time, you’ll naturally want to understand typical rates. I always recommend getting at least three quotes – the same advice applies to any service. Copywriters differ widely in experience, process, and what they include as standard, so speaking to a few people will give you a clearer picture.
For industry benchmarks, you can look at the ProCopywriters website – the membership body for over 875 UK copywriters. They publish an annual survey with average day rates, which can be a useful guide.
But really, the best advice I can give is to speak with a few copywriters to help you come to an informed decision.
I’m always happy to have an informal chat about the potential costs (without any expectation that you’ll book with me). Book a call today.
Photo credit: Jakub Żerdzicki on Unsplash
