You may have heard the terms copywriting and copy editing thrown around, but what do they actually mean? There are actually a whole bunch of niches within the writing world that are often overlooked. Today I’m breaking down the differences between copywriters, content writers, and copy editors, and explaining why copy editing is essential for ensuring the effectiveness of your written content.
What is Copywriting?
Copywriting is a type of writing that is designed to persuade and influence the reader to take a specific action. This can include purchasing a product or service, scheduling an appointment, or signing up for a newsletter. Copywriters are experts in crafting language that connects with the reader and motivates them to take action.
What is Content Writing?
Content writing is a type of writing that is focused on providing valuable and informative content to the reader. The goal of content writing is to establish a connection with the reader by providing them with information that is relevant to their needs and interests. Content writers focus on long-term strategies to keep readers engaged and build a loyal audience over time.
What is Copy Editing?
Copy editing is the process of reviewing and revising written content to ensure that it is grammatically sound, flows correctly, and is structurally correct. Copy editors work with copywriters and content writers to ensure that their written content is free of errors and meets the intended goals.
Consider that a copywriter is really well versed with SEO, they are really verse in conversion. They’re not necessarily involved with the minutiae and the nuances of grammar and punctuation and things like that, nor should they be.
Jasmine “Jae” Herman, Owner of Brown Boss Media
Why is Copy Editing Important?
While it is important to have well-written content, it is equally important to have content that is free of errors. A missing comma or a misspelled word can make a big difference in how the reader perceives your brand. It can also impact the effectiveness of your content. Copy editing ensures that your content is grammatically correct and structurally sound, which can ultimately lead to increased conversions and engagement.
When Do You Need a Copy Editor?
As a solopreneur or small business owner, you may not realize the importance of having a copy editor review your content. You may assume that if it sounds good to you, it’s good enough to publish. However, even the best writers make mistakes. It’s essential to have a fresh set of eyes review your content to ensure that it’s error-free.
Your written content is a crucial aspect of your brand. While copywriting and content writing are important, copy editing ensures that your content is polished and effective. Working with a copy editor can help you improve the quality of your content. It can also increase engagement, and build a loyal audience over time. So, if you want to take your written content to the next level, consider hiring a copy editor to ensure that it is error-free and optimized for success.
Jasmine “Jae” Herman is a strategic brand and marketing consultant and a copy editor with over 20 years of digital marketing experience. She has helped hundreds of small businesses, authors, entertainers, and nonprofit organizations create engaging content in blogs, marketing campaigns, books, and podcasts. She is passionate about environmental sustainability and helping creative professionals share engaging (and grammatically sound) content. Jae is proud of her work with B is for Black Brilliance, Ford Foundation, and PBS Kids. She’s had features in Block (formerly Square), Forbes, and Fast Company. When she’s not working, you can find Jae watching sci-fi action movies, playing Scrabble™ with her boo, or solving NYT Wordle puzzles.
Visit Jae’s website at www.bosscopyediting.com. Learn more about the difference between copywriters and editors in her blog post “How to Differentiate Between Copywriters, Content Writers, & Copy Editors“.
Get her FREE writing hacks guide: Top 10 Writing Hacks Editors Wish You Knew (But Won’t Tell You) here.
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