Here’s how preparing a copywriting proposal is like dating again

Ok, I’d better start with a disclaimer

I haven’t actually dated since 2005 and, granted, things have changed a little bit. I never swiped right – or left – and those friends who dated someone they met online in the early 2000s were seriously in the minority. Rather than take the advice of a well-meaning friend to ‘go where your dream guy will be hanging out’, I figured my odds were better in a seedy club than a bookstore. I must have been on to something. In 2006 I met my husband in a Koh Samui nightclub, and the rest is history.

But, I digress.

I’ve started to notice when I go through the copywriting proposal process, it’s started to feel a little bit like the dating dance. Let me explain.

You put yourself out there

You’re on the web and social media, often using big, bold shots of your face (nowhere to hide) and brand promises for people to decide, would I like to work with this person? Whether you’re in the business of business or dating, this part of the process can feel pretty confronting.

Someone shows interest

There’s a bite via your website contact page, or someone slides into your DMs – well, hello there! The vibe feels right, and you respond. From there, a phone call, coffee date or longer email eventuates.

First contact goes well

So far so good. You’re enjoying each other’s banter, and you feel you’re understanding each other and what this prospect is looking for in a copy relationship.

The second date (it’s copywriting proposal time!)

You were right. The stars have aligned, and your potential client has requested a copywriting proposal. Now you have the chance to really show what you can do. There’ll be a detailed plan, proposed timeline and summary of the conversation so far. You’ll agonise over the quote because you want to offer you as much value as you can while still valuing your time and expertise. Then you’ll take a deep breath and hit send.

One of these three outcomes will likely eventuate:

Ghosting

Either you’ll send the proposal, then follow up once, twice and…crickets. Or, the client signs off on the proposal and then ignores the commencement invoice. You end up feeling like your date has shown up for dinner, seen you and left (awkward!) or that an ex has got back in touch. Either way, it’s pretty hard not to take personally.

Sometimes circumstances change, and we copywriters are pretty understanding types. We’d much rather get your honest feedback about a copywriting proposal so we can amend things to make sure everyone’s happy. Just shoot us an email – we won’t bite. Even better, try the phone where there can be no misinterpretation of tone!

Treat ’em mean, keep ’em keen

If you wanna be my copywriter, you gotta work with my budget (sung to the tune of Spice Girls). Um, no. That’s not exactly how it works. My rates are very competitive within the industry. Sure, you can pay more for your copy, but you can also get it much cheaper. When you work with me, you’re also investing in my years of copywriting experience and SEO know-how. Responsiveness and attuned listening skills come as standard. If you’re likely to be offended when I politely decline your request for a discount, please don’t ask.

When it comes to dating, the ‘treat ’em mean, keep ’em keen’ approach is an unusual strategy. It may have worked for my first boyfriend Lachlan back in 1995 (and I use the term boyfriend VERY loosely), but I’m a little savvier these days. Here’s a thought – in business or dating, just be a nice person.

This could be true love

Sometimes, like in the Green Mango on that hot January night in 2006, the stars align, and a lasting partnership is born. As a copywriter, these are my faves. There is mutual trust, respect and understanding. Revisions are communicated clearly and in a timely fashion, and invoices are paid on time (or instantly, even more dreamy!). The good news is, there are plenty more clients in the sea (or something like that), so you don’t need to settle. When you finally find true client love, you’ll feel the difference.

Think we could be a match made in copywriting heaven?

Why not come and find out.