Copywriting vs. Content Writing: What’s the Difference?

Copywriting vs. Content Writing : What’s The Difference?

 

 

It’s all just writing – isn’t it?

Not exactly.

There’s actually a big difference. But it’s possible to do both.

Luckily, it’s not complicated so let’s get started.

 

What is Copywriting?

The formal and quite frankly boring definition of copywriting is “the act or occupation of writing text for the purpose of advertising or other forms of marketing. The product, called copy or sales copy, is written content that aims to increase brand awareness and ultimately persuades a person or group to take a particular action.”¹

A much more fun and exciting definition and the one I use the most is that copywriting is merely using words to sell stuff.

The mission of copywriting is that simple.

Copywriting is attention grabbing, gets to the point quickly and commands a response or an action. The desired outcome results in a purchase.

Copywriting Examples

Copywriting is all around and you see it wherever you go.

Here are some examples of copywriting and how it’s incorporated into our everyday lives.

What is Content Writing?

Content writing delves much deeper.

Yes, content writing is ultimately still using words to sell stuff, but it’s not the first and immediate goal.

The initial goal is to ensure that your words have meaning. Instead of a few catchy words or headlines that grab attention, your content copywriting needs to dig deeper and make a more meaningful connection with your audience.

Content writing takes your words and converts them into value. This perceived value is often free and gives the reader advice or teaches them a valuable lesson. Content writing nurtures readers and turns them into customers when they are ready, and the time is right.

It’s not all about the writing of content. Instead, it’s about generating leads and building relationships for future sales. Another way to look at it is that content writing helps to drive traffic while copywriting helps to seal the deal and make the sale.

Examples of Content Writing

Content writing is typically long-form and more descriptive. Content writing tells a story, teaches a lesson, and makes a connection. Here are some examples of content writing:

Copywriting vs. Content Writing Skills

Many of the skills needed for copywriting also apply to content writing. The main difference is that content copywriting builds upon the skills needed for copywriting. Here are a few skills you must possess for both copywriting and content writing.

Getting Started in Copywriting vs. Content Writing: What’s the Difference?

While there are differences between copywriting and content writing, the way to get started is essentially the same and applies to both.

After reading this, you may be seeing a trend. While there are definitely differences between copywriting and content writing, there are also many similarities. What applies to one can often apply to the other. If you’re interested in doing both, it’s quite possible. It’s just a matter of getting started and not being afraid to delve right in.

That’s why I developed the copywriter brain community to help all kinds of writers come together. Whether you’re a copywriter, marketing copywriter or content writer, the copywriter brain community is a place to come together, share ideas, tell stories, give advice and create writing that makes an impact. Please join us so that we can all learn and grow together. In the meantime, check out these helpful resources and my new online course and start your writing journey today.

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