About Helen McCrone

I suppose copywriting (that's what we copywriters do - write copy for various mediums like print and web) is the sort of occupation that most people don't know exists. Until they need a copywriter, that is. A bit like when you suddenly need an elevator mechanic. We just don't think about them, do we? Why would we unless we got stuck in an elevator? But it's kind of cool having a job that's not run-of-the-mill. 

I haven't always been a copywriter. I used to be an accountant, and when I tell people that I see a puzzled look on their faces. "But isn't that to do with numbers and money and stuff like that? And now you're writing. Like, using words?" Sure, it's quite a career change. But it's not such a giant leap as you'd think. I explain it like this:

Accountants and copywriters aren't that different. We share a lot of traits that are useful in both professions. We have to be good at (and enjoy): 

• conveying complex information using clear and concise language
• getting the details right while meeting tight deadlines
• persuading and influencing others by understanding the other perspective  
• gaining a thorough grasp of a company's industry and niche in a short space of time
• working in a team and meeting people working in all sorts of trades and professions   
• keeping up with constantly changing developments in the professional field
• tackling jobs with an imaginative approach (you've heard of creative accounting, right?)