Doug Jenner, marketing copywriter in London
Do you need an experienced marketing copywriter – London or further afield? Call me, Doug Jenner.
I’ve been a marketing copywriter since 2006. I guess that’s a long time and yes, now that you’re asking, I really am that ancient.
But then, it’s good to remember that while so many things in the world have changed, including the digital and technological revolution, there are still constants and as long as there is marketing, they probably won’t change for a while yet.
One of these is the need for clear, focused, strategically written marketing copy.
As a
As an agency-based London copywriter, I’ve been led into several interesting areas; outsourced Head of Marketing, PR agent and copywriting lecturer at London’s CityLit Institute. They have been very exciting journeys for me, all driven by my core copywriting capability.
The great thing about being an outsourced Head of Marketing was the fact that I has ownership of the whole picture – which means that any copy that I developed flowed naturally from the other work I was doing.
PR work was fascinating in an entirely different way. It led me to an understanding of how much of the media works – and also an appreciation of the need for relationships between PR agents and editorial outlets. My work in PR brought me many successes, yet always I was drawn back to copywriting.
Marketing copywriter, London – but all of the British Isles as well.
Some copywriters develop a niche and become sector specialists. I’ve never wanted to do that, although I have worked at some depth in particular sectors. Why?
One of the many bonuses of remote working is the opportunity to connect with businesses nationally – and internationally too. Not only have my clients come from many sectors, they have also come to me from many locations.
Some copywriters tend to move naturally into a particular industry niche. This can be more lucrative than remaining as generalist writer, but it’s never been my choice. I have always preferred to develop my skills in a broad way and bring them to bear across just about any industry sector.
The process of immersing oneself in new areas is, in itself, one of the really enjoyable things about the job.
Marketing copywriter style?
What’s my copywriting ‘style’? There’s a short answer: I don’t have one. Or at least I hope I don’t.
If people thought I did, I’d be disappointed, for one simple reason: the best copy disappears. Clever journalists can try and dazzle you with their wordy pyrotechnics because their work is as much about them as it is about their subject. The best freelance copywriters London – or anywhere – are able to remove themselves entirely from the copy so that readers skip and skim easily through to that ‘buy’ button.
So I am very happy to leave writing style to the journos. My writing style at any given point will be whatever we’ve determined that the customer needs. To do this successfully really does require skills of the highest order.
OK, so that’s style covered? But what, you ask is my personal style?
Anyone’s personal style is determined to a great extent by their personality. Are they quiet, gregarious, shy, outgoing, humorous, and so on and so on. So let me have a go at explaining myself in a few words: outgoing, relaxed, hardworking… and more than a few people have called me easygoing or ‘laid back’. Many like and respond to my dry humour. Some call me London’s answer to Clive James.
Hmmm. not sure about that. And don’t let the laid back thing fool you. I’m a very good listener. People who work with me talk about my ability to ‘get under the skin’ of things – to work hard at getting a deep and profound understanding.
But look, that’s more than enough about me. I’m always talking about the ‘me/you’ balance and getting that absolutely right in the promotional writing. And here I am breaking my own rule. Sometimes you have to, I guess.
Anyhow, what about you? If you’re looking for a freelance copywriter – Hertfordshire or way beyond – call for a relaxed chat. Meanwhile, here’s what some of what’s been said about me:
“I am very targeted in my invitations and have so far met with only positive reactions due in small part to the image of me and my business conjured up by the wordsmithery skills Doug has at his disposal.” (Ben Sweeting, Senior Recruitment Professional)
“We wanted the copy on our new website to match its bright, fresh design. That meant writing which avoided the same meaningless clichés that so many in our industry seem to fall back on. This, we soon found out, was easier said than done! So we searched ‘marketing copywriter London’ and were lucky enough to find Doug. We are delighted with the crisp, snappy copy he produced for us. This is writing that ‘cuts to the chase’ and makes us stand out from our competitors.” (Ryan Powell, MD, Zedra Group)
“Doug and bestwords have been a joy to work with. So much more than just copywriting. Each project that he has been involved with has had the same brief, “we want our words to lift off the page” and he has always delivered. We will be using Doug again and if you need any help or advice with copywriting or marketing then look Doug up! Quite simply Doug has been able to make the best of our words.” (Matt O’Conner, MD, John O’Conner Ltd)
“I was fortunate enough to enrol on London CityLit’s copywriters course last year with Doug Jenner. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I was cut out for this style of writing, but Doug’s relaxed and insightful approach to the course had me compelled from the get go. He is witty, dry and exceptionally knowledgeable about writing across many platforms. He has genuinely helped improve my understanding and technique and I have successfully applied it to my own business.” (TV personality Jason Gardiner, Dancing on Ice)
“Doug’s course provided me with excellent professional development and as a result Bowel & Cancer Research has implemented a new website and blog along with a greater output of press releases and advertising. Doug’s teaching has been invaluable to my current role.” (Amy Noss, Content Designer at Government Digital Service)
“Doug has always been exceptional to work with, and has been a huge help in both promoting my websites, educating me in blog techniques, and video promotion, and helping me achieve a social media presence via twitter. Since staring with him I have managed to climb up the google hierarchy and have benefitted greatly from his help.” (Laurens Holve, London Healthcare Professional)
“I was looking for an individual to support me in building a complete brand and communication strategy; I googled ‘copywriter London’ and I am very pleased I found Doug and Best Words. He has been highly professional from the start and delivered excellent content and structured thinking. The outcome is a brand book and a set of clear messages which clarifies and amplifies the Idea Group commercial proposition.” (Steve Bird, Technology Executive)
“Doug has significantly improved my business propositions and marketing. He is skilled in crafting words and statements that engage others and communicate clearly. He is also skilled in identifying how images and pictures can be used to create maximum impact. The website that he created for me frequently impresses my readers and has been referred to as an exemplar.” (Mark Alexander Harris, Global Product Director, Densitron)
