How to handle feedback as a copywriter

I was lost in the action-packed movie when that notification exploded on my screen.

It brought me back to reality.

Guess what? 

It's from my client—the feedback for my copy. 

I could feel my rapid heartbeat, panic welled up.

Had to take some deep breaths and finally made up my mind to look at the feedback. 

I believe this is how you feel too, when receiving feedback. 

There were times when I felt like maybe I was not for this writing stuff after seeing feedback. 

But no, I haven’t quit and never will I.

Instead, I quit the idea of quitting and started welcoming feedback even though it sometimes makes me feel dumb. 

Before I tell you how to handle feedback as a copywriter, let me introduce myself to you. 

I’m Nivithasri, a freelance writer (just call me Nivi). I’m so excited to co-write the 16th edition of Dark Chocolate with the future Indian Jasmin Alic (Anirban).

Okay, let’s get straight into handling feedback. 

Remember every writer receives feedback. 

Before I tell you other stuff, remember that even the greatest writer in the world has an editor to fix his writing. 

Does it mean he’s not a good writer? 

Obviously, not. 

So, again remember it happens to every writer in the world & there’s no need to feel embarrassed like I felt before. 

Be like Captain Cool!

Our beloved MS Dhoni always remains cool, no matter the situation. 

He doesn’t overreact to his wins & failures. 

Likewise, you need to be on balance. 

Don’t get high on positive feedback and low on negative feedback. 

Just maintain what’s working and improve what’s not. 

Never let your emotions off-guard

Never over-apologise when you get criticism for your writing. And most importantly, don’t yell at them. 

Instead, thank them. 

If there’s no feedback for your copy, how do you become the expert copywriter in the world? 

Alright, time for Anirban to drop some knowledge bombs.

See ya, wordsmith! 👋

Have you ever thought about how your mood can change with only one message? 

Yes, you got it!

As a solopreneur, the most vital thing for us is to have good feedback from our clients. 

• My first LinkedIn post was shit 

• My first client work was rejected 

• My first book was shit 

Still, my clients pay me now. Do you know why?

I implemented the feedback I got from the clients I have worked with.

Positive and negative both are part of your journey.

Leaving is not. 

Still, my clients pay me now. Do you know why? 

I implemented the feedback I got from the clients I have worked with. 

Positive and negative both are part of your journey.

When I started, I received the poorest feedback.

One of my clients said, “It’s better if you stop writing.”

Today my writing feeds me.

Did I argue with them? No! I just tried to understand what was wrong and why they spoke to me that way.

I quoted 50K within the first 3 months.

The tone was too harsh, and they disagreed.

No, I still can't quote 50K, but I am better than before, and I know how to handle a ‘NO.’

I understand why they are not confident in me.

Well, the only thing that keeps me going is the power of taking feedback positively.

My friend Nivi already told you everything you need to know.

Still, I will repeat the pieces of advice to help you improve:

• Never take it personally

• Focus on the ‘WHY’ and don’t let your ego get in the way

• Don’t be emotional

Remember, no one is judging your quality.

You might be the best copywriter, but Copywriting 101 says, it’s all about them, not you!

Good copy needs a good feedback process.

Before you go, do me a favour.

I would love to write on topics you want to read about.

If you have any ideas, please comment, and I will write on them.

I'll see you next Sunday.

Until then, grab a dark chocolate and enjoy the winter, it won’t be back soon!

Oh yeah, give my friend Nivi a follow on LinkedIn.