3 lies copywriters tell (themselves about getting clients)

I’ve been coaching copywriters for many years now. And a copywriter before that. We’re storytellers at heart and by trade, and boy, can we tell ourselves some whoppers when it comes to getting clients.

LIE # 1: Only the best get the best

Here’s a little secret from the hiring side of the desk: when I’m looking for a copywriter, “the best” isn’t my gold standard. Are you surprised??

The truth is, being the most expensive or topping Google’s rankings doesn’t automatically make you the top pick.

Clients might be attracted to the value a newer copywriter might bring, such as budget-friendliness. Or they might choose a copywriter who has been recommended to them and appreciate the fact they didn’t have to go down the agony of the Google-rabbit-hole.

The lesson? Opportunities to snag a client can come from simply being in the right place at the right time, armed with the right attitude, rather than holding all the accolades.

LIE # 2: Clients will call us out

It’s easy to think that clients have a magical insight into how copywriting works and will call you out if you make a mistake. Think again. Clients are looking for you, the pro, to guide them.

When hiring, I don’t want to make more decisions or play the guessing game on how it will play out. I’m like a child who wants (and needs) clarity and structure—exactly what you should provide.

The lesson? Outline your process clearly: what happens when, what they should expect, and keep them updated. Regular communication is not just courtesy—it’s your secret weapon to client satisfaction.

LIE # 3: It’s all business, Never personal

You know that saying, “People buy from people”?

That’s 100% right. It IS about connection!

And you don’t need a jacked-up copywriting portfolio to make an impact. Sometimes, a good vibe with a potential client will blow objections out of the water. Objections that we assume will be a deal breaker. Like, experience or even pricing concerns.

Be the person they remember not just for your professional acumen (even if you’re faking it a little), but for how you made them feel during that initial conversation.

That rapport, how well you vibe, could be the tipping point in landing a project.

If being on a call with a prospective client makes you a little nervous, think of it as having coffee with a friend. And you happen to be discussing some copywriting opportunities. Relax into these interactions, ask about their day, their business journey, or even their favorite downtime activity.

These seemingly trivial exchanges can end up sealing the deal for you.

The truth

So, what do you think? Do any of these ring true for you?

Drop a comment and let me know which ones.

No judgment here but with those lies out in the open, think about how often you’ve believed you weren’t ready or the right fit for a copywriting client.

And how you can push ahead next time.