Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Katie Kelton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Katie, appreciate you joining us today. What’s something you believe that most people in your industry (or in general) disagree with?

Many people believe the path to success is linear. The mindset starts in grade school–you follow a set curriculum, pass standardized tests, apply for college, choose your major (probably before you fully understand all the available careers out there), graduate, gain an entry-level job, and move your way up to the top of the company before retirement.

That path may work for some. But I believe in a different philosophy: that every step of the way has meaning. My favorite anecdote is one about Steve Jobs, who took a calligraphy course in college for fun that later birthed the concept of fonts. I believe in taking risks, learning new (fun) skills, and trusting that their purpose will surface in the long run.

Volunteer for a gap year in another country. Take a class at your local community college. Learn floral design. Write fiction or prose in the early morning or late at night, just because you feel like writing. Quit your job and apply for another one that looks more interesting.

The early years in your career–if they’re anything like mine–are for experimentation. Pad your calendar with hobbies, work, and people who make you come alive, and leave societal expectations behind.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I am a freelance copywriter who helps clients tell their brand story across multiple channels and editorial calendars. Content marketing is my sweet spot–hand me a long-form article assignment, and I’ll clap with delight. I’ve written copy for over 20 brands in the financial, educational, and nonprofit industries. ‘Concise’ and ‘inclusive’ are my guideposts.

My education is in Business Marketing, but I’ve been holding a pencil and filling pages since I learned to write. My combined love for branding + writing has carved out a niche for me in the industry. I work with clients who have a marketing strategy in place but need help telling the story.

I’m proud of the way I can hold space for corporate goals AND creativity. Connecting with other creatives keeps me in touch with my innovative streak.

I live in Houston, Texas, where most of my waking hours are spent typing furiously in coffee shops, shooting film, and heading outdoors.

Oh, and I read a lot. As Stephen King says, “If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.”

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My goal as a writer is to help brands 1) communicate clearly, and 2) be interesting.

Too many words dilute the message. As Brené Brown says, “Clear is kind.” If a customer gives you the privilege of entering their inbox, their social media feed, or their organic search results, you must speak clearly. What pain point will you fix? How much does it cost? What steps must the customer take? (Hint: there should really only be one.) How will a customer’s life be better after?

Content marketing is when brands must step up and be interesting. If you launch a blog, produce content that readers actually WANT to read. Teach them something. Offer a free resource. Don’t hoard valuable intel. When you, the brand, are generous with your information, customers will respond warmly. Sprinkle in calls-to-action and build brand awareness, and sales will follow.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Word-of-mouth and networking comprise my strategy for growing a client base. My first few freelance clients were actually connections I made while working full time–companies and people I worked with horizontally. I was fortunate that once my professional network learned about my availability as a copywriter, clients came knocking.

But I also made a conscious effort to foster every connection. I took interviews, phone calls, and coffee dates with anyone who had a glimmer of possibility for working together down the road. I learned from peers and sought advice from mentors. I asked friends and former clients if they knew anyone else who worked at a brand and might need a writer. If I met a potential client who asked for services I couldn’t offer, I connected them with someone who could. Even now, when I receive LinkedIn messages from recruiters, I always skim the opportunity and respond. I’ve recently been connected with two new excellent clients through LinkedIn.

Copywriting is in high demand, and I’m fortunate to already be in the industry. But I believe there is space for every creative–it takes an open mind and tapping into all possible connections.

Oh, and a great portfolio. Spend time putting together a website that shows off your work and how you can help clients succeed!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.katiekelton.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/katiekelton
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/katie-kelton