One of the biggest questions copywriters ask me—especially when leads seem light on the ground—is, “Is all this lead gen work actually paying off or am I just shouting into the void?”
The truth is that the work to get copywriting clients isn’t sexy. Sorry. Nor is it super fun. Which is why it’s usually left until you have time or energy. Which is never. AmIright?
But, the reliable-but-unexciting work builds relationships over time and pays off when you’re not even looking.
If you’re feeling like no one’s noticing your hard work, I’ve got a story for you.
I recently chatted with a Confident Copywriting member who thought her social posts were just drifting off into the abyss. She was getting clients but they didn’t seem to be connected to her social media efforts. She started wondering if it was even worth the time she was spending.
After a little digging into where her clients came from, we discovered people were watching. They were reading her posts, following her advice, and passing her name along when others needed a copywriter. Sure, they weren’t out there double-tapping every post, but they were keeping her in mind. The “quiet referral” game was strong.
I know that “quietly behind the scenes” isn’t quite the dopamine rush of 20 new comments or a flood of likes. You might even think lead gen is just busywork, but each task is like a drip in the bucket.
A blog here, a social share there, a friendly comment and a no-pitch DM—suddenly, your whole client pipeline is quietly filling up.
Why boring lead gen tasks work the best
Getting copywriting clients is more about the steady work that builds relationships and reputation over time. It’s about staying visible and consistent, even if it doesn’t always feel like anyone’s watching. Each action you take compounds over time.
Simple lead gen tips that add up
Here’s how to keep going when lead gen feels like it’s not paying off (yet):
Just show up consistently: Posting weekly (or biweekly) on LinkedIn, Instagram, or your blog isn’t about instant gratification. It’s a signal that you’re here to stay—and when someone finally needs help, they’ll know you’re reliable. (Yes, even if they haven’t clicked “like” in months.)
Network without being weird: Think of networking as sprinkling compost, not creating a hard sell. A thoughtful comment here, a genuine share there. You’re just spreading goodwill, and you’ll see the growth.
Do the connections first: Before you lose steam by the end of the week, carve out a few moments for quick connections—DMs with a “Hey, loved what you said about XYZ!” or a quick “Thanks for sharing this.” A little visibility at the beginning of the week helps keep you top-of-mind.
Share your perspective: Think of each post, blog, or social share as a little seed. Some will sprout quickly, others later. But if you skip the seeds, no growth, no clients.
Trust the slow drip: You’re doing it right
If you’re still feeling like lead gen is busywork, know that each tiny step you take is building your reputation and client network. Even if clients aren’t engaging, they’re likely watching.
Stay the course, and trust the pipeline you’re building. It’ll be ready when you need it most.
If you haven’t grabbed it yet, check out my FREE lead gen toolkit for copywriters.
You’ll learn the two most reliable ways to get clients*, that successful copywriters swear by. (*direct from the mouths of copywriters). And you’ll get a bonus lead tracker to amplify your efforts.
