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Kendy Sproul

Expert Guru
Kendy Sproul is the owner of The Creative Quill, which specializes in "getting it write for you." On the business side, she writes marketing brochures, direct mail campaigns, advertising copy, newsletters, press releases, speeches, and more. One the creative side she writes short stories, greeting cards, fiction, and articles. She also does ghostwriting and currently has two of her own novels in the works.

In addition to being a writer Kendy has also spent the last two years editing for a book publishing company.

When she's not writing she spends her time fishing, hunting, (both of which have been life long passions) horseback riding, gardening, and reading.

For more information visit Kendy online at www.thecreativequill.com




9 Tips from Kendy Sproul

Getting into the writing habit

Set aside a realistic amount of writing time everyday and stick to it. Once you get into the habit of writing each and every day you'll automatically find more and more time to spend on your writing career.

When the going gets tough

Join a local writers group. Having a support network will help see you through those tough times when it seems you'll never be where you want to in your writing career.

How to build your portfolio or "clip file"

Start out small and work your way up from there. Instead of targeting the "Big Glossies," where the competition is fierce, and setting yourself up for disappointment, first target local publications, businesses, and non-profit organizations. Not only will this build your portfolio but it will build your confidence as you see your clip file grow.

How to handle rejection

When those rejection slips come in, and if you are a writer they will, don't take time to let it get you down. Immediately get that piece back in the loop by sending it to the next market on your list. Be sure to make any necessary changes first, then send it on its way.

Know your lakes

When boat fishing on a lake it is important to be familiar with that lake. Take the time to learn where the different species of fish hang out, what types of bait and tackle work best, and if trolling, what speed works best to attract the fish you are angling for. If you take the time to know the lake you are fishing you will have better success and be a happier fisherman.

Know your tackle

True fishermen know exactly what type of lure, spinner, fly, etc. to use and when. Some of this knowledge is based on experience but a lot of it can be learned by reading up on the types of tackle you have in your tackle box. If you aren't an expert on the types of tackle you use, take the time to find out all the information you can about your favorites; read, ask questions, research it on the internet. The more you know about your tackle, the better your chances of catching the big one.

Know your audience

Get to know everything you can about who your copywriting project is targeting. Research. Find out what they believe in, what they care about, how much money they make, where they shop... Every little thing you can find out about your target audience will help you to write to their needs, to hook them and draw them in.

Strong headlines

The most important part of powerful copy is the headline. If the headline doesn't reach out and grab the reader, he will not read one singel line of the body. Focus on the headline and make it the strongest headline you can possibly come up with and then you've hooked your reader.

Study the competition

Whenever you are doing a piece for a client, make sure to spend adequate time studying their competition. Know how your client is different than the competition, what they do better, what features their product has that the competition's doesn't. Know as much as you can about your client's competition and you will be able to write strong copy that tells the reader exactly why they should buy from your client over anyone else.