These terms get thrown around like loose change in the online business space. I get asked this question a lot, so let’s take a moment to clarify. Basically:

SEO Copywriters write for GOOGLE

Conversion Copywriters write for HUMANS

Yeah, it’s basically that simple. A good copywriter should have a working knowledge of both fields, but as a client, don’t hire a conversion copywriter expecting them to be an SEO expert and vice versa.

I FIRMLY believe conversion copy should come first, and then SEO optimized copy should be layered on top. It’s important to have your brand’s voice, story, and overarching message nailed down before you go off trying to write for keywords, meta tags, alt tags, and all that good stuff. As a conversion copywriter, I know how to incorporate those things into your copy, but my #1 priority is to write natural words that connect with your target audience and compel them to buy your product or service. Plus, there are so many more traffic channels than just search engines, so writing solely for Google doesn’t really appeal to me.

If you’re interested in becoming a copywriter of some sort, ask yourself, “Do I like writing based on stories/narratives or data/analytics more?” If you said stories, you will likely enjoy conversion copy more. If you said data, you will probably enjoy SEO copy more!

Does this make sense? Is it helpful? Leave your questions below!