This is one of the most common questions we hear during rebrands and website projects:
“Should I write the copy myself? Or should I invest in a professional copywriter?”
You might feel confident writing in some areas, but unsure how it all fits together. Or you might have no idea where to start.
This article is here to help you make the decision that’s right for your business – based on your goals, your time, and the kind of support you’ll need to get the words working as hard for you as the visuals.
First, what do we mean by “copy”?
When we talk about copy, we mean the written content that speaks on behalf of your brand. It includes things like:
- Website headlines and service pages
- About page bios and introductions
- Lead magnets or downloads
- Proposals, decks and slide content
- Social media captions and tone
- Email sequences or welcome messages
- Print collateral, such as flyers, adverts, brochures and exhibition stands
Copy is how your brand communicates. It helps people understand what you do, why it matters and why they should trust you.
Confusing copy creates hesitation.
Good copy builds confidence.
But brilliant copy captures hearts and minds, and consistently converts – turning potential clients into loyal repeat customers, and even vocal advocates for your brand.
That’s why it matters so much – especially when paired with design and branding.
When writing your own copy can work
Let’s start with the good news.
If you’re clear on your message, confident in your tone and comfortable writing, then writing your own copy might be a great option. Many of our clients do this successfully, especially when:
- They’ve been in the industry a long time
- They know their clients inside out
- They already have a writing style that feels natural and engaging
- They enjoy writing and have time to do it properly
We support clients through this route all the time. We’ll guide you through the structure, offer feedback on tone and flow, and help you apply your copy to the brand design.
AI tools can help you pull things together and get you off a blank page – but they still need a human to shape the message, add personality, and make sure nothing is incorrect, gets lost, or sounds a bit… robotic.
It’s a collaborative process, and it can work beautifully when the foundations are strong.
When it might be time to bring in a copywriter
There are also times when hiring a professional can save a lot of stress, and lead to much better results.
Here are some signs that a copywriter might be the right call:
1. You don’t know what to say
If you’re staring at a blank page and don’t know where to begin, a copywriter can help draw out your message, shape your story and bring clarity to your offer.
2. You’re too close to your business
It’s often hard to explain what you do in simple terms, especially if you’re an expert, or your service is complex.
You might be brilliant at what you do, but still feel awkward “selling yourself” – which often leads to underselling your brilliance.
That’s where a good copywriter comes in. They act as a translator between you and your audience, offering a fresh, outside perspective that’s almost impossible to get when you’re too close to it.
3. You’re short on time
Even if you can write, you might not have the headspace to do it properly. Writing well takes time. Editing takes even longer. And writing under pressure rarely leads to your best work.
4. You’re repositioning or raising your prices
If you’re trying to reach a new level of client or shift how your business is perceived, your words need to support that change. Professional messaging can make a huge difference here.
What a copywriter actually does
It’s not just about writing pretty sentences. A good copywriter:
- Clarifies your core message
- Captures your tone of voice
- Structures your content for clarity and flow
- Writes headlines that guide people, not just impress them
- Helps you sound like yourself – but sharper
They’ll often interview you, research your audience and work closely with your designer or strategist to make sure the words and visuals support each other.
It’s not just writing nice words. It’s clear thinking, sharp strategy, and messaging that moves people.
How we approach copywriting at Olive Tree Creative
We’re not a copywriting agency, but we work closely with a small group of trusted, expert writers who understand our process and share our values.
If you choose to write your own copy, we’ll support you with:
- Templates and guidance on structure
- Tone of voice advice
- Editing and light rewriting, where needed
If you choose to work with a professional through us, we’ll manage that collaboration so it stays aligned with your brand strategy and design.
Either way, we want your words to feel like you; clear, confident and intentional.
How to decide what’s right for you
Here are a few questions to help you choose:
- Do you enjoy writing?
- Do you have time and headspace to write and revise?
- Are you clear on what you need to say – and what your audience needs to hear?
- Are you confident your current copy reflects the direction you’re heading in?
- Would you feel more confident with expert help – or appreciate someone taking this off your already-too-full ‘To Do’ list?
If you answered ‘yes’ to most of the first four, writing your own copy could work well.
If the last one felt like a relief, it might be worth exploring professional support.
Final thoughts
The best copy is the kind that feels true to your brand, connects with your audience and supports your business goals.
There’s no right or wrong answer. Whether you write it yourself or bring in a pro, we’ll help guide you in making the right decision, and support you to ensure it all works together – visually, verbally and strategically.
Because your copy isn’t just content. It’s the voice of your business.
And we want it to be heard clearly.
Table of Contents
Ready to start
your new project?
Every project starts with a conversation. Tell us about your business and your plans and we’ll get back to you within one working day.
