If you’ve been following along with my blog for a while, you know that I’m an ethical content writer.  I’m a strong believer in doing what’s best for the customer, and it’s a strategy I employ in all of my content writing gigs.  Since I often get people asking me what that actually looks like, let’s take a deep dive into how to prioritize ethical copywriting.  Spoiler: it’s easier than you might expect!

Top tips for being an ethical copywriter

For the most part, ethics are going to be a priority more so in copywriting than content writing, but I try to always keep ethics in mind for any job (if you want a reminder, you can read up on the differences between copywriting and content writing before going further — but it’s not required).  

• Understand what the client is truly after: This one is first for a reason.  Some clients want to sell, sell, sell.  While this is obviously important, that focus can often give them blinders when it comes to representing their business or product.  I always find that getting to know my client and their goal can really support me in getting a clear vision as to what they want the delivered copy to do.  If they are too heavy on the “sell” part, then ethical copywriting may not be the approach they want.

• Communicate clearly what your boundaries are: If, after educating your client on the importance of ethical copywriting, they want you to take a different approach with the delivered copy, take a moment to decide what you want.  The bottom line is that you have ot decide what kind of copy you are willing to write and deliver.  Everyone’s ethical boundary is different, so make a decision that sits well with you!  Sometimes you may not know where the boundary is until you cross it, but the experience is going to be great for future orders!

• When in doubt, pretend to be the customer: It can be difficult to spot the line between ethical copywriting and standard copywriting, to be entirely honest.  I often find myself struggling to give the client what they want, and still feel good about the copy I’m creating.  When I really am stuck, I pretend to be the customer.  What would I feel comfortable reading?  What would turn me off and have me searching for a competitor?

• Sprinkle some content in your copy: If something is too over the line, but you really like the client or the product you are selling, just add a few content writing tips into your copy!  It can be subtle and still copy-focused, but adding in the content approach can help you feel like you aren’t crossing any lines.  Plus, the client is still happy with the final product!

Ethical business writing at its best

In my opinion, ethical business content is the future of digital marketing.  Sure, it’s a bold statement, and I’m nowhere near being a business expert.  However, I am a hardcore shopper, and I know the kind of content and copy that can convert me from reader to buyer.  Since I’m often sitting on the business side of the shopping experience, I feel at my best when ethical copywriting sits at the centre of my strategy.

What do you think?  Do you have any tips or tricks you’d like to add?