Content writing or even article writing is very different from copywriting. The idea or phrase of “writing copy” can be misinterpreted to simply reflect the creation of words. Content has become or is thought of us copy in a lot of circles, so it’s an important distinction to make between the two, particularly if you are trying to make a career/an earning in one or the other. Let’s talk about the difference between copywriting and content writing and why it’s crucial to be able to differentiate them now.

Difference Between Copywriting and Content Writing

Content writing is simply creating content without looking to get any particular response from your reader. I’m writing this article right now completely devoid of selling, here I am simply writing to inform. If you sign up for my mailing list or follow me on Twitter because of it then great, but that’s not the purpose. This is just creating content for a site, content which can rank in Google, attract other webmasters to link to it if it’s well written and insightful, etc.

Copywriting on the other hand is writing with intent and that intent is to spark a reaction in your reader. That reaction can be any number of things – the aforementioned Twitter follow or email list sign up or something more substantial like pushing the reader into making a purchase. Copywriting is appealing to the reader’s emotions to achieve that reaction, understanding the human psyche to create that spark.

Content writing is what gets your reader there to your site. You’ve written a great article on dog collars and you’ve attracted a dog owner to your site. Copywriting is when you flip the switch now that you have an audience. You want that reader to purchase your completely comprehensive all inclusive eBook on dogs so you begin to create copy in order to move your reader to take that specific action. This can be done through a presell page, autoresponse emails, etc. but the ultimate goal in this instance is to get readers to take that action.

If you’re a copywriter or even if you’re a content writer, it’s important to know the difference between the two so that when you’re soliciting your services you know what you’re capable of and can let your prospective clients know the same. This will save you a headache when you’re thinking you’re just writing copy for a squeeze page to entice people to sign up for an email list then your client begins to ask you to write the content for their eBooks they want to sell, as well, as an example.

Check out my tips on hiring a copywriter also if you’re in the market for one.