• 3-minute read
• 24th March 2022

Content Writing vs. Copywriting—What’s the Difference?

The rise in global ecommerce has significantly changed the methods that businesses use to build successful, sustainable brands and reach their customers. It’s become common practice for companies—large and small—to target their consumers on an emotive level. The focus has shifted from a dynamic sales pitch to a persuasive display of how a company can help you, and more importantly, why you should let them.

Enter copywriting and content writing: the art of using persuasive language to sufficiently intrigue customers and generate sales. Read on to discover the key differences between the two and determine their individual influences on a business.

Content writing is a powerful form of digital marketing with the purpose of regularly creating content that educates current and prospective customers about how the business can address their problems. By interacting with individuals in a more relaxed manner, providing interesting content, and highlighting solutions to life’s various predicaments, it gradually converts interested readers into loyal customers.

Copywriting, on the other hand, is a far more persuasive, concise, and engaging form of marketing that highlights the key attributes of a product or service and how it directly benefits consumers. It targets customers at both logical and emotive levels, details the unique selling points, and typically ends with a call to action. It’s generally considered a short-term strategy to increase sales. 

Goal

Content Writing

• Informative, light-hearted 
• Serves to build a sustainable, loyal customer base

Copywriting

• Persuades customers to take immediate action
• Distinguishes key features of a product, service, or brand

Length

Content Writing

• Longer, conversational pieces
• Reveals a deep understanding of the business mission and ethos

Copywriting

• Short and snappy content 
• Convinces readers that they need the product or service

Type

Content Writing

• Blogs, email newsletters, articles, ebooks

Copywriting

• Product descriptions, slogans, website content, social media posts

Timing

Content Writing

• Long-term approach
• Slowly converts loyal readers/followers into customers

Copywriting

• To-the-point, catchy snippets
• Often results in an immediate call to action

Approach

Content Writing

• Show-and-tell approach
• Diligently creates engaging, relevant content
• Helps the reader in some way
• Instils confidence in the business
• Leads to sales

Copywriting

• Takes a “this is why you need it” approach
• Briefly differentiates the product or service from its competitors
• Identifies what sets the business apart
• Explains how customers will benefit from their purchase

Ultimately, the choice of using a content writer vs. a copywriter or employing a combined approach depends on the product or service being offered, the nature of the business, and the overall company goals.

If you’re a professional copywriter or content writer, consider submitting a free sample of your copy to us for proofreading and editing services. We can ensure it follows your chosen style guide and tone of voice and we’ll polish it off for that extra sparkle!