Claudia Bouma from Claudia Bouma Copywriter
Who are you Claudia Bouma?
I’m an Aussie SEO copywriter who loves working with small business owners eager to change people’s lives. An idealist at heart, I believe words can change the world.
What did you do before you became a copywriter?
During a two-year family camping trip around Oz with three preschoolers, I submitted a travel article to the 4×4 Australia magazine editor, which was published.
Other travel mags contacted me and I found myself living the dream as a travel writer and my husband as the travel photographer.
How long have you been copywriting?
I’ve always been fascinated with words. In high school I took English, French and German followed by Spanish and Russian in Business School because I love and breathe language.
My travel writing career kicked off in 2009 then I branched out into SEO-friendly website copy in 2017 after doing Kate’s Recipe for SEO Success Course.
I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
What has been your biggest copywriting career win?
Copy editing for the Royal Flying Doctor’s Service (RFDS) in Victoria. As a kid, I watched The Flying Doctors on TV and was smitten with Tom Callaghan.
When another copywriter referred this job to me, I was beside myself. The RFDS is an Australian icon and I feel proud to have contributed in a small way to this life-changing health service.
What was your worst copywriting career fail?
Writing web copy for an online maths program provider after successfully working with the owner to develop the tone of voice. I slaved over the content and he HATED it.
My confidence took a hit but it was the incredible copywriting community that helped me see it wasn’t all my fault. I learned many valuable lessons throughout this horrible experience, and I’ve become a better copywriter as a result.
What is your number one fave copywriting tool?
The online thesaurus is my go-to tool for all my copywriting.
How do you deal with self-doubt?
Having a copy buddy has helped me get through times of doubt. A regular catch-up with someone who understands your world and can bring perspective is SOOOO helpful.
Most of the battle is in the mind so it’s important to get your thoughts out in the real world, only to discover that things aren’t as bad as they seem. A sounding board is crucial for my mental health.
And my amazing husband is my biggest fan who buys me chocolate when I’m miserable.
What work/life balance or mental health tips do you have?
Copywriting is what you do, it’s not who you are. Enjoy what you do and make sure you remember why you’ve chosen this roller coaster lifestyle to make sure you get through the hard times.
Be realistic about what you can and can’t do. You’re not a superhero.
Don’t promise the world and put yourself under pressure. Deadlines are flexible, believe it or not.
What tip would you pass onto any newbie copywriters?
Enjoy the ride! It’s a bumpy ride with exhilarating highs and stressful lows, but it’s so worth it. The freedom to carve out your own life, develop your skills, meet like-minded copywriters – the list goes on and on.
Don’t be scared to ask for help or advice. We can be our own worst enemy by thinking we’re the only ones struggling with a particular issue.
What’s next for you?
Breaking into UX writing as this nicely blends SEO and my analytical approach to copywriting.
Why do you love TCCS?
TCCS transformed my copywriting career. I finally believe I’m a professional and have less times feeling like a fraud. When I do, I jump onto the Facebook group and I soon realise my true value as a copywriter.
