The Freelancers Coach - Chris Marlow

As an award-winning freelance copywriter with over 20 years working for everything from super-small businesses and entrepreneurs to the world’s leading companies — Microsoft, Disney, IBM, and more — I've had every kind of client you can possibly have.

I know... and you do too... that the key to a successful freelance career lies in the caliber of your client, and the quality of the niche market you work in.

But most of us start our freelance careers going after the wrong people... the low-hanging fruit, and working for anyone who will hire us, unsure what "niche market" would be best for us.

I can tell you I spent quite a few miserable years undercharging and chasing clients who didn't have any money, and whose work did not allow me to grow a stable base of business.

But one day my networking paid off and I was offered work with Rosen/Brown Direct, a small but dynamic direct response agency located in Portland, Oregon, whose heyday was in the 1990s.

After a short while freelancing for Rosen/Brown they hired me. And after eight truly exhausting years, I left for the freelance life once again, but this time my career was an instant success!

Knowing copywriting had not been enough... copywriting is only part of the marketing process. While at the agency I learned how to target particular markets, pick lists, create appropriate campaigns and mailing formats, and come up with creative ideas and offers that were so right on, that we won many awards and our "brand/response" agency became known the world over.

So when I stepped out again a freelancer, I took this knowledge with me and I applied it.

I selected a target market that would appreciate my background, cherry-picked a higher level clients than I had before, used my copywriting skills, created an appropriate and powerful offer, and started mailing out. Aggressive phone follow up got me to my goal of $5,000 per month in my third month of freelancing.

(And yes, direct mail is my favorite marketing tool, but it's only one tool that should be in your marketing arsenal.)

Today I still work for select clients and I market my own products, but I spend at least half my day helping copywriters and other freelancers.

I show them how to find the niche market that’s just right for them... I help them get a strong marketplace positioning... we create agency-level marketing materials that will impress the high quality clients, and that prove you're an independent professional who knows his stuff... and we develop an appropriate personal brand.

I supply my coaching students with a complete Integrated Marketing Model custom made to my student's unique niche, passions, likes and dislikes, and market opportunities. It's a full roadmap to optimized marketing, designed to move your client acquisition successes along at a faster pace.

And I supply the backend support if needed, helping my coaching student process a lead successfully, to negotiate and price correctly, and "set up" so the budding client relationship can flower into a solid long-term relationship that is so important to profitability!

To be successful, you MUST niche...

My first niche market was direct response agencies and my second was supposed to be Fortune 500 companies.

That, however, didn’t work, as it was unfocused. How could I say “I’m the right writer for your Fortune 500 company because I work with other Fortune 500 companies”? How did that make me uniquely qualified to work for their company?

So I set my sight on software and became arguably the nation’s leading software copywriter. Niching allows you to become an expert at what you do, which will raise your rates and increase your satisfaction in the work you do.

Not only can I help you find the right clients
but I can help you get the pay you deserve!

As author and publisher of three popular pricing guides for copywriters, I've studied copywriter economics and created pricing tools any copywriter can use.

What’s more, I can teach you the process of negotiation — how to deliver what the client expects — and all the real-world business practices that tell your new client that you’re a pro.

Whatever you encounter along your path, I’m here with trusted advice and skillful instruction to keep you from making the rueful time- and money-wasting mistakes that I did.

The turning point in my career that led me to you

In late 2002 I was at the Redondo Beach, California office of my colleague, John Finn, agent to many copywriting superstars.

That's where I met Jim Slay, John's business coach. After seeing how Jim helped John’s business go in exciting new directions, I realized the incredible power of coaching and mentoring.

Jim inspired me to share what I know with others, and my coaching business was born. I've helped dozens of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners in one-on-one coaching sessions, and hundreds more through my teleseminars, online newsletter, articles, and Special Reports.

Today Jim is my coach too, and founder of the Trusted Advisor’s Alliance.

As a member of the Trusted Advisors Alliance — a group of business professionals who adhere to the principles of honesty and integrity in every business transaction — I am committed to putting your interests first, and in becoming your most trusted advisor.

In my opinion, the Internet has become a seething hotbed of carnival barkers, and skepticism is at an all time high. I don't blame you if you're wary about big claims... I am too!

My acceptance as a Trusted Advisor member is one assurance that you're safe with me as your coach. Another assurance is the four years I've been coaching, and the many happy people I've helped.

My coaching program is very specific with lots of homework, and it asks a lot from both of us as we build you a business that can get you the great clients.

Remember, I've worked for some of the world's leading agencies and smartest marketers. We'll use the same tools, processes, materials, strategies, ideas, and tactics I used to help my clients, and to build my own business.

So if you’re ready for trusted advice from a personal coach who puts you first and can offer you a proven program for getting high-value clients — I encourage you to ask for a free consultation.

Simply complete the form below and click [Send It] to access free information on my coaching program, including details on my free one-hour consultation.

Fields with an asterisk (*) are required. Also know that your data is for internal use only and will not be shared or sold.

“I have examined, and sampled, several products and services aimed at freelance copywriters, and I must say Chris Marlow’s coaching program stands head and shoulders above them all. Her professionalism sets her apart in this industry. With Chris, you will notice, there is no hype — just the promise of real value.

“And with her excellent coaching program, she delivers on that promise. The knowledge I gained from Chris helped me achieve a 20% response rate on my very first targeted campaign. I have no doubt that the knowledge I gained from Chris will profit me for many years to come. If you are serious about success in this business, you would do well to hire Chris Marlow as your coach.”
— Pete Savage, B2B Copywriter, London, Ontario, Canada

"I tried launching my copywriting business by myself 6 months ago. I sent out 600 letters to marketing directors in various industries. I got only one response!

After working with you for 3 months, I had much stronger marketing materials, a powerful USP, and a target market I felt comfortable approaching. I just sent out my first mailing and got 10 responses — a whopping 4.55% response!! I would have been happy with 1% but I'll take 4.55% any day!

Now this is the way to start a freelance career! Thanks for all your help, Chris!"
— Ed Gandia, Copywriter for the Software Industry, Marietta, GA

"As a new entrepreneur, I have found Chris Marlow's coaching invaluable. Although I was very confident in my former Marketing Communications Manager role, I sometimes feel like a fish out of water as a freelancer. Chris alleviates that feeling. Whenever I have a question, whether it's about how much to charge, what to do with a confidentiality agreement, or whether I've nailed a headline, Chris takes away the question mark.

"By working with Chris, I've significantly honed my USP and have built a desirable offer. I mailed my direct response package one week ago, and have already received nine responses. It's so exciting! If you'd like to fast-track your success, hire Chris.
It's money well-spent."
— Heather Sloan, INfusion Marketing Communications, Inc., West Linn, OR

"I’ve heard that the local ad community is talking about the 'big splash' I’m making with local PR and my new site... I’ve had positive feedback and interest just about every day. This is just the beginning. My site has only been live for 1 month!”
— Pam Foster, SEO Copywriter, Scarsborough, ME

“Chris, what am I going to do with all this money that's headed my way? I'm beside myself with gratitude. It's been a long, hard walk, but I just kept putting one foot in front of the other.

"I can never thank you enough for the help you've been, and are. You'll never know how many times I heard your voice in my mind saying, 'this is what you need to do...'

"You have done more for me than you realize, in so many areas of my life. 'Thank you' seems inadequate in proportion to the enormity of what's happening.

"More another time..."

— Pam Magnuson, Nutraceuticals Copywriter, Aloha, OR

"Chris was extremely influential in helping me land my first big client. She helped me negotiate my fee and instructed me on how to handle the meeting. After that, she critiqued my copy and helped me turn in a project my client loved. Because of this, I have since done other jobs for this client with the same results."
— Gary Carmody, Author, Fort Collins, CO

“Hi Chris, I must tell you that every time we finish a conversation, I am so focused and so excited about what we’re doing. It’s terrific. I’m even excited about re-doing my branding! Attached is my new-and-improved USP. Have a great week.”
— Linda Rivero, Copywriter/Speaker on Multicultural Communication, Alexandria, VA

"I work in a lot of different media: mail, web, email, print, packaging and more. But no matter what kind of piece it is, Chris always helps me look at it in a new and fresh way. You'll be a better writer after just one session... but why stop there?"
— Chuck Vadun, Sr. Copywriter, Intuit, San Diego, CA

“Chris, I wanted to fire off a quick email to thank you for your advice and support on Monday. I went in to see two clients yesterday, followed your script, and guess what? Two pieces of business. I feel I've stepped up! I've got another meeting on Friday and will keep you informed on the outcome there.”
— Simon Rudge, Technology Copywriter, London, U.K.

"Chris, you were absolutely integral to helping me define not only my professional niche, but to help me discover how to pursue work that would bring joy and meaning to my life.

“Because of you, I am living my dream of working with and for children. And you've given me all the marketing tools and techniques I need for marketing to make my business wildly successful.

“I regard you as an incredibly valuable resource and you can bet I'll be relying on your expertise as my business continues to grow. I'm grateful to know you. I simply could never recommend you highly enough. To all of you who choose to work with Chris, I say, ‘Get ready... she will change your life!’"
— Tracy Douglas, Sales Catalyst for the Mom/Child Market, North Hollywood, CA

“Here’s a brief update…. Everyone who read my bait piece thought it was great and I had many inquiries to buy it when it was finished as a full-length ebook. So I decided to finish the bait-piece turned ebook.

“Then, [thanks to your help in structuring my landing page] I was invited to guest star in a teleconference on paralegal training. I got more inquiries from lawyers and paralegals that saw my website.

“I’ve now been hired by a freelance paralegal and 2 lawyers to design and write copy for new websites. I’ve also been approached to write copy for some public relations material for lawyers. Now, if I get any more inquiries, I will have to put them on a waiting list!

“Thank you for your help, Chris. I wouldn’t have this business now if it wasn’t for your great coaching.”
— Lynn Roberts, JD, MBA, Attorney at Law, Lawyer and Paralegal Career Coach, Overland Park, KS

"What a THRILL! I believe this is one of the best relationships I've developed this year, and I welcome you into my life with open arms. I am now going to sit down and develop a calendar of assigned tasks, which I will email to you with writing samples as soon as it's done to my satisfaction. Have a great afternoon; you have, single-handedly made my day spectacular. Peace be with you."
— Kim Stacey, Copywriter, Ben Lomond, CA

"Happy with my coaching? Oh my goodness, I am ecstatic with my coaching. You gave me great advice that I never would have thought of on my own, you showed me concrete plans to put my own ideas into action, and you helped me develop the self-confidence to market myself in the first place.

Just knowing about Who's Mailing What, alone, was worth it. Really, it was a huge help — Thoreau said you should make your castles in the sky, but put foundations under them, and you have put foundations under mine. You've really helped make the 'money-making' part of my challenge seem manageable."
— Jane Ward, Case Studies Specialist, Hingham, MA

"As one of only two copywriter‘s agents in the nation, I must be very picky about whom I represent. I decided to work with you Chris, not only because of your copywriting talent, but your business acumen. Your tenacity and ideas bring a synergy to our relationship that can only add up to mutual success."
— Kevin Finn, President/CEO, Finn Communications, Inc., Redondo Beach, CA

"This is such a great service and such good advice...truly wonderful...I can focus on where I truly need help...with you I get one-on-one and it accelerates my progress. In one hour’s time I can target the challenges that are most pertinent. The impetus it gives me for the rest of the week is just incredible. A lot of things are coming into focus that were fuzzy to me for such a long time."
— Diana Manchester, Diana Manchester Advertising & Design, Monrovia, CA

"Most of what I am learning about copywriting comes through trial and error, of course, and just doing it. However, I have an unfair advantage with you in my corner. As my coach, you have saved me so much time and energy. Just last week, your advice about that conference I was considering attending saved me $139.00 in registration fees! You are worth every penny, Chris. Thanks for making it so easy!"
— Chuck Thompson, Direct Response Copywriter, Chicago, IL

"Chris Marlow is at the top of her game. I can think of few other professionals I would recommend as highly as an effective business coach. Take my advice. Pick her brains."
— Steve Slaunwhite, Author of "Start & Run A Copywriting Business"
(Self-counsel Press), Brampton, Ontario

"To me, the definition of an inspiring mentor is someone who is a top working pro in their field and who willingly gives their knowledge and expertise to others in a caring and nurturing way. That's what you get when work with Chris Marlow. She's increased my 'marketing learning curve' as a copywriter 10 fold — and kept me focused like a laser on what I wanted to accomplish in this competitive business. And I'm proud to say I'm on target to hit my financial goals for the year. And I owe a lot of my success to Chris. She's tremendous!"
— Peter J. Fogel, Copywriter/Consultant/ Speaker, New York

"If my personal life needs help, I turn to 'Dear Abby'... when my business needs help, I turn to 'Dear Chris'! I want to hear practical answers, do-able solutions, and ideas that make me think and see the possibilities. Unpretentious and straight-forward, Chris Marlow reminds me of why I got into this business in the first place: to focus on the things that help me make money! Thank you Chris."
— Peter T. Britton, The Write Answers Consulting Services, Vancouver, B.C.

"Chris makes the writer's world seem less intimidating and more exciting. For the first time in my life, I feel comfortable with myself and comfortable enough to say AND truly believe that I am a copywriter. This to me is far more valuable than any techniques that she could share, or strategies that she could administer. In the absence of just feeling good about myself, I could sustain nothing. No price could be put on this but I have definitely received more than my investment! Having a coach like Chris is worth it!"
— Giselle Hudson, Principal, Purple Marketing Limited,
Trinidad, Caribbean

"Even though I had a lot of corporate marketing and agency experience, I really didn't understand what it takes to be a free-lancer. Working with Chris opened my eyes and then some. Especially when I hit a low point and I had proposals out there but nothing was happening. When it comes to the business of copywriting, she's the guru!"
— Sally Blodgett, Copywriter, Ben Lomond, CA

"You've been a great motivator to me Chris, and a great resource. You constantly amaze me with your great business ideas and advice."
— Cheryl Dillard, Writer/Producer, Portland, OR

"I've watched you grow your business from nothing to impressive Chris. And along the way I've used many of your techniques to grow mine. Whenever I had a question, you've had the answer. I appreciate all of the hours you've spent counseling me, and all of the information you've shared. I can' t even guess at how much time you've saved me. Thank you Chris!"
— Deb Cornick, Deb Cornick Graphic Design, Kamuela, HI

"I'm really glad you were there during my transition into freelance life. And you continue to motivate me and give me guidance while I decide where to focus my efforts. I know I'll be even more of a success than I am now if I continue to follow your suggestions."
— Eugene Ball, The BallTech Group Graphic Design, Palm Desert, CA

"I've learned much from you, and one of the most important things I've learned is how to align my values with my goals. I feel like nothing can hold me back now, Coach!"
— Christy Garan, Artist, Los Angeles, CA

"From one coach to another, thank you Chris for helping me break through a marketing block that has plagued me for a long time. Your advice to me was both timely and priceless!"
— Jim Slay, Doctor of Religion, J.S. Professional Coaching, Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA

"Dear Chris: You are so brilliant! And that's why I want to work with YOU. Great strategy move on your part. That is such a super idea you use to get business...I definitely want to do that when I start out. Thank you again for being so helpful to me."
— Beverly Budgell, Brampton, Ontario, Canada

"Few people have another person’s best interest at heart the way you do. You are one of the most supportive people I’ve been privileged to know. I truly value the help you’ve given me, and your good advice."
— Jan Webster, Palm Desert, CA

"Chris! What a valuable hour plus that proved to be — not that I expected anything less. Thank you so much for your generosity. I feel very motivated and look forward to working
with you."
— Carolyn Walker, Carolyn Walker Writing & Editing, Sacramento, CA

"It helped me so much to talk with you and hear your perspectives; finding out another professional's evaluation of my work, and your ideas on a direction to go mean a lot. Thank you for sharing these files with me, and most of all, for listening and answering my questions, and having excellent ideas!"
— Sheri Waldrop, Copywriter, Weatherford, TX

"After 100 letters and some phone calls, I'm proud to post a 5% response rate using Chris's time-proven marketing methods. She's honed my message to such a fine point that it would be impossible for a company not to respond. Thanks, Chris!"
— Victoria Rosendahl, Passion Marketing Copywriter,
Urbanna, VA

“Dear Chris, Yesterday morning I was thrilled to hear you say, ‘congratulations! You have your first copywriting job!’ It is due to your conscientious guidance and expertise that I have reached this milestone, and though I’m sure I face many more challenges as a budding copywriter, I am confident because with your coaching I know I will successfully overcome them.

“If someone were to ask me about the educational effectiveness of your coaching program, as a professional educator I’d only have two words for you: ‘right on.’ I went through your entire copywriting program and you deserve a lot of credit for helping me land this first client! One of the things about you that helped me tremendously is your patient, hands-on instruction.

“Maybe it’s just me, but coming from a non-sales oriented profession as I did, it has been extremely helpful to learn about marketing, sales, and copywriting from the bottom up and by doing it myself. With your caring guidance, I created small pieces of my copywriting life, building a strong foundation by uncovering potential niche areas, then drafting a USP about who I am as a copywriter. From scratch, we created my first copywriting sample: my professional website. At the same time, we analyzed the market in my niche, examined and gathered hundreds of names to create an in-house list, and began a sales campaign.

“Thank you for sharing your professional knowledge and practical know-how with me! I have learned more from you than I would have from a book or an academic program, because you are a master in the field whose ability shines through in all you do.”
— Marian Kleinman, copywriter for education and self-improvement, Liberty, NY

"Thank you, Chris, for a very thought-provoking and inspiring conversation. It's apparent that you are an expert in your field, and have the skills and methods to help copywriters create successful businesses. I especially appreciate your emphasis on finding work that suits one's interests and values, not just on making money by writing random assignments. I have full confidence that you could help me refine my focus, hit my targets, and enjoy the process."
— Susan Gately, Concept Communications, Somerville, MA

"Dear Chris, It was really great talking to you just now. I came off the phone with my head a whirl of ideas and possibilities. Fantastic!

Thank you for sending me the creative briefs. I shall set to and devour them immediately! Oh, and thank you for the syllabus and USP as well. They've just arrived. I am so looking forward to working with you. I'm feeling inspired. Warmly..."
— Jane Howitt, Words4TheWeb, Sale, United Kingdom

"You've been a big boost to my career, Chris. I'd recommend you as a Personal Coach to any copywriter who wants to get ahead in this business."
— Jeanine Granfin Holly, Holly Copywriting, Portland, OR

“More than anything, I value your insight and feedback on specific projects. Remember that magalog project for the utility that you helped me with? Well that magalog project had a 34% closing rate. The sales letters that you helped me develop for that company ranged from 2% to 65% response rate.

“I'm currently pitching an idea to that same company that includes a range of integrated projects. Thanks again Chris for your response and for ‘being there’ when I need insight.”
— Patrick B., Copywriter, Ontario, Canada

“ I was having some second thoughts about all the work I put into the mailing, particularly the paper on the industry. But, that paper has positioned me as a specialist in the industry. The time and effort really paid off.

“One company asked if I’d be willing to join them as a full time copywriter. The mailing has done a great job opening up doors. To date I received 8 responses for the paper. Two are pretty good leads. Thanks, again, for your help. ”
— Susan Allocco, Copywriter, New York, NY

“You've been a gem of inspiration, mind-set shaping and at times, carried me along to help me reach my goal. I'm really grateful for the coaching you have given me…You've given me a lot of powerful tools that include ‘a way of thinking’ when it comes to marketing myself.”
— Ken Taylor, Marketer, Nagoya, Japan

Sign up for a FREE subscription to the monthly newsletter,
Get Great Clients
(value $240 USD/yr)

Learn agency-level copywriting
and self-marketing strategies
for landing the world's
most desirable clients!

To be successful, you MUST niche...

If you have at least entry level skills for what it is that you do, I can show you how to find your niche and teach you what you must do in order to land the quality clients in your niche.

Not only can I help you find the right clients
but I can help you get the pay you deserve!

The turning point in my career that led me to you

Sign up for a FREE subscription to the monthly newsletter, Get Great Clients (value $240 USD/yr)

Learn agency-level copywriting and self-marketing strategies for landing the world's most desirable clients!

To be successful, you MUST niche...

If you have at least entry level skills for what it is that you do, I can show you how to find your niche and teach you what you must do in order to land the quality clients in your niche.

Not only can I help you find the right clients but I can help you get the pay you deserve!

The turning point in my career that led me to you

Sign up for a FREE subscription to the monthly newsletter,
Get Great Clients
(value $240 USD/yr)

Learn agency-level copywriting
and self-marketing strategies
for landing the world's
most desirable clients!

Not only can I help you find the right clients
but I can help you get the pay you deserve!