How to Differentiate Copywriters vs Content Writers vs Content Strategists

The Venn Diagram of copywriters vs content writers has a lot of overlap, but both writing styles are distinctly different. Content writers engage, educate, and entertain readers, while copywriters focus on persuading readers to take action. 

 

Many content writers and copywriters have the versatility to do both, but that’s not always a guarantee. Knowing what each role specializes in will help narrow your search when hiring a writer.

 

For extra credit, I’ll also talk about the role of a content strategist. Depending on the needs of your business, you may need someone who can not only write content, but also develop a strategic plan for your copy. 

 

Here’s what each role does: 

 

Content Writers

 

A content writer educates, entertains, and engages readers to strengthen the relationship between a brand and its audience. They tell stories to make points relatable, and are always down to come up with new and intriguing ideas. 

 

Content writers write compelling content and craft it in ways that make it easy for others to find it (e.g. SEO). They also have experience with digital marketing strategies and can create content for multiple channels, like websites, email, and social media. 

 

Copywriters

 

Copywriters focus on persuading their audience to buy a product or service from a brand by suggesting that it will improve their quality of life. Copywriting is all about understanding the needs of the target audience and convincing them to take action. Like content writers, copywriters can tell stories, build relationships, and know SEO. 

 

Copywriters and content writers are commonly mistaken for one another, and some writers identify as both. However, there is a key difference: content writers educate and entertain while copywriters persuade. 

 

Content Strategists

 

Content strategists take on a different role entirely. They take over a brand’s content strategy and direct it so it can achieve its desired milestones and long-term goals. 

 

If content writers and copywriters focus on chapters, content strategists:

 

  • Write the table of contents

  • Determining the chapter order

  • Decide when and where they’re going to publish

  • Set the style and tone. 

 

A content strategist defines a target audience and ensures the content is consistent across all channels. Having someone who can do this is vital. In fact, 72% of marketers believe that having a good content strategy was a major key to success. 

 

Final thoughts on copywriters vs content writers vs content strategists:

 

Copywriters vs content writers

 

Some writers do both writing and strategy, but not all of them. If you need this service from your content writer, ask them during your interview. You can also schedule a free, no pressure chat with me to discuss your content needs. I only bite on Tuesdays.