Copywriting vs content writing: What’s the difference?
I want to clear something up - the terms copywriting and content writing get thrown around a lot, and it’s easy to think they’re the same thing.
Spoiler alert: they’re not.
If you’re running a business, knowing the difference can make a huge impact on your content strategy. So today, I’m going to address the clichéd elephant in the room and walk you through what sets them apart.
Why? Because helping you understand the differences of copywriting vs content writing will help you figure out which one you really need.
So let’s break it down…
What is content writing?
Imagine content writing as the friendly, chatty version of writing. It’s all about providing value, and educating, or entertaining your audience. Think of blog posts, newsletters, or even those juicy social media posts that get people talking (or at least double-tapping).
Content writing is there to help, not to sell (at least not immediately).
It’s about building a relationship over time. You’re showing people that you know your stuff, you’ve got something valuable to offer, and they can trust you. It’s the long game, and the more useful and engaging you are, the more people will stick around.
Here’s where you’re most likely to see content writing in action:
Newsletters
Social media posts
Case studies or guides
Oh, and don’t forget SEO! Content writing often comes served with a fresh side of search engine optimisation – meaning, we throw in some key terms (like, say… “copywriting vs content writing”) to help your audience find you when they’re searching online.
What is copywriting?
Copywriting, on the other hand, is like that person who inhales their food as soon as it’s placed in front of them – they’re in it, they’re focused, and they know exactly what they want.
It’s designed to get people to take immediate action. Whether you want them to click “Buy Now,” sign up for your newsletter, or book a call, copywriting is the sharp, snappy stuff that makes things happen.
Copywriting is direct, it’s persuasive, and it’s all about conversions. We’re talking landing pages, sales emails, and ads – the kinds of writing that push your audience to make a move.
Here’s where you’re most likely to see copywriting in action:
Sales pages
Email marketing (those “click here” CTAs)
Facebook or Google ads
Product descriptions
In short: content writing builds trust; copywriting seals the deal.
The key differences between content writing and copywriting
Here’s a quick cheat sheet to help you tell them apart:
Purpose:
Content writing gives value, builds trust and keeps people engaged.
Copywriting persuades people to take action now.
Tone:
Content writing is friendly, helpful, and often times chatty.
Copywriting is direct, persuasive and focused on getting results.
SEO vs Conversions:
Content writing is often optimised to help you get found online.
Copywriting is focused on immediate conversions (i.e. sales, leads, and clicks).
Length:
Content writing is usually much longer and more detailed.
Copywriting is short, sharp, and to the point.
How do the two work together?
The copywriting vs content writing debate isn’t a ‘pick one and stick with it’ kind of battle. You don’t have to choose between the two – in fact, you’re always going to need a healthy blend of both.
Their different functions mean they come in to play at different points of the customer journey. Content writing lays the groundwork by helping people discover your brand and get to know you, while copywriting jumps in when you’re ready to turn those curious onlookers into customers.
Think of it like this: content writing is the conversation starter, and copywriting is the closer.
So, which one do you need?
The answer depends on where you are with your business. If you’re in the ‘getting my name out there’ phase and want to build trust, content writing will be your best friend. But if you’re launching a product or trying to grow your sales, copywriting will give you the push you need to get results.
At the end of the day, both content writing and copywriting are essential to your business. They might seem similar, but they play very different roles.
Want to keep people engaged and position yourself as an expert? Go for content writing.
Need to drive action? Copywriting’s your winner.
Still not sure which one you need? Drop me a message, and let’s figure it out together.
