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With roughly one billion users, it’s no surprise that when we started Syntactical, it wasn’t long before we set up a business Instagram.
Over on that platform, we’ve had the virtual privilege of meeting hundreds of copywriters, and being able to follow their career progression is a joy. There's real value to building a community focused on support, rather than competition.
This supportive Instagram community is exactly where we met the subject of our second Copywriter Questionnaire. Friends of Syntactical, meet Becky!
Becky kindly took the time to answer the questions we threw at her, and we're delighted to share her fascinating answers with you.
1. How long have you been a copywriter?
15 months – I started in January 2020.
2. What inspired you to become a copywriter?
I was a secondary English teacher for 14 years. It was becoming more difficult to balance life, kids and work. I wanted a job that kept me creative, kept me close to words but also gave me flexibility. Copywriting gives me all of that.
3. Do you prefer working in an office with others, or working on your own? Why?
On my own. I love the peace and quiet, and I work better that way. Having spent 14 years in a loud, chaotic environment, retreating into my office and concentrating is a luxury.
However, I do still like collaborating and working with people and it’s great that I don’t have to be in the same room/city/country as the person I am working with.
4. Do you read books regularly, and if so, what’s your favourite genre?
All the time. I love a good dystopian future novel. I also love the weird and wonderful like Haruki Murakami. I could talk fiction books all day.
5. What advice would you give to an aspiring copywriter?
Tell everyone you know what you are planning on doing. Friends and family will want to help and they can recommend you to people.
6. What’s the most bizarre subject you’ve had to write about?
Bedpan cleaning! *insert vomit emoji here*
7. What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Helping people feel inspired. It’s not just about the words. It’s about getting them to think about who they are talking to and why. It strips it right back and suddenly ideas start flowing.
8. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I have recently taken up embroidery and cross stitching. It’s a way of getting off my phone in the evenings and it is so peaceful. I also love a good clubercise class.
9. Do you write for pleasure, as well as for business?
I’d like to, but I don’t find the time. I journal on and off and I want to start to form that as a daily habit.
10. If you could pick your dream subject to write about, what would that be?
That’s tough. I don’t know. Each project is unique. But probably fiction books. If anyone wants to pay me to write about books, please get in touch. I think that would be a dream project.
Thanks, Becky!
It’s great to hear from fellow copywriters. Every journey is so different, and every person has a thousand unique insights.
We'd love to continue this series, so if you’d like your voice to feature on our blog, please don't hesitate to get in touch.