Stratton Craig
The Copywriter
November 2006

Dear [Firstname],

Much has been happening since our last issue of the Copywriter. But the main focus this month has been our new online copywriting course Copy College. An increasing number of people are finding that writing well at work is an essential skill. We hope that we can pass on some of the techniques involved in writing good copy, and increase awareness of how important copywriting really is.

We also welcome two new members to our in-house team, Helen Small and Ellen Swann. So there’s plenty of new beginnings at Stratton Craig, but as our work for Remington shows, we’re also continuing to provide our clients with attention grabbing, original copy.

Signature

Jeremy Stratton

Introducing Copy College
   
A close shave with Remington
   
New to Stratton Craig: Helen Small
   
New to Stratton Craig: Ellen Swann
 

Introducing Copy College

We launched our new on-line course, Copy College this month. It aims to give practical advice to anyone who wants to improve their writing. It’s not just copywriters who need to write good copy – it’s everyone, from marketing people to university students to business owners.

Students can work at their own pace and will learn a range of skills from giving and receiving briefs to writing for different mediums. We are also hoping to develop a series of Master Classes that will focus on specialist writing skills. If you’d like to know more about the course please go to www.copycollege.com or give us a call.

 

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A close shave with Remington

Remington set us the challenge of writing punchy pack copy for two new electric shavers distributed internationally. The tone of voice had to be confident, hard-hitting and masculine. But the copy also had to convey the message that Remington shaves are comfortable and ideal for men with sensitive skin. The resulting copy struck a balance between tough efficiency and lightness of touch, and will now be used on Remington’s packaging across the world.

 

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New to Strattion Craig: Helen Small

What were you doing before Stratton Craig?
I’ve just graduated from Warwick university and started working for Stratton Craig this summer. I did work experience for Stratton Craig while still at uni, which is how I got the job.

What was your first full-time job?
I’m pretty new to the world of work but I did work full-time during my gap year as a receptionist. I was saving up to fund a round-the-world trip, so it was all worth it.

What do you do when you’re not writing?
I show my face at the gym every now and again.

What do you enjoy most about writing?
I really enjoy the whole creative process, especially coming up with ideas and learning new things all the time from researching different companies.

What would you be if you weren’t a copywriter?
Realistically, I’d probably be a planner in an advertising agency. But I’d love to land a role in 24 opposite Kiefer Sutherland. Failing that I’d happily be his assistant.

 

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New to Strattion Craig: Ellen Swann

What was your first full-time job?
I worked in Impact Publishing for a year before joining Stratton Craig doing everything from project management to editing copy and pushing sales.

Did you go to university?
Yes, I went to Exeter and studied English and then studied for an MA in Victorian Studies at a London university. I don’t think I would go back again – I enjoy having my weekends and holidays essay-free!

What do you do when you’re not writing?
I enjoy playing hockey and running. And I’m a big fan of Cliff Richard’s Christmas singles, being a child of the 80s.

Why did you want to get into copywriting?
I kind of fell into copywriting after publishing and found I really enjoyed it. No two days are ever the same. I like working to tight deadlines which means you’re always starting new projects. Also, as an English graduate, copywriting gives me the opportunity to develop my creative skills.

What is your claim to fame?
I once appeared in a T4 clip with Vernon Kay, and he bought me a beer. I’ve also met Jason Donavan at a party, where he ended up slumped in the toilets singing Angels by Robbie Williams out of tune.

 

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