Sarah is the Founder and CEO of Content Copywriting, and a neurodivergent leader obsessed with adding real value to the people and brands she works with. She leads with quiet rebellion, refusing to do things the way they’ve always been done.
Within two years, Sarah went from solo freelance copywriting to growing a team of 20 content strategists, content creators, journalists, and editors who work remotely and flexibly to fill a gap in the market for an agency that cares. And it seems like clients agree, as Content Copywriting now counts Westpac, Afterpay, Modibodi, and Koala among their client list.
I’m Sarah Spence, founder and CEO of Content Copywriting. I didn’t find my passion, it found me. Ever since I was a kid I’ve loved crafting stories, and I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit – right back to my homemade lemonade stand. So running a business based on storytelling made sense.
Oprah once quoted ‘You’ve got to follow your passion – You’ve got to figure out what it is you love – who you really are. And have the courage to do that. I believe that the only courage anybody ever needs is the courage to follow your own dreams.” Please share, how you had the courage to follow your own dreams.
It took time to figure out what I love, even though it’s inherently in me. Much like diamonds are formed under intense pressure, so too was my business. I needed to create something quickly to provide for my family, it took courage but it was also a dream come true.
Tell us what the word “Entrepreneur” means to you?
Entrepreneur is a mindset. Yes, it’s someone who starts a business, but having the mindset to take on risks in the hope they’ll deliver a return is truly entrepreneurial. When that vision is realised and becomes a success, it’s then about establishing purpose and values, and growing a people-first culture.
What has been the biggest lesson you have learned from being an entrepreneur?
That it’s not enough to be an entrepreneur. You need to shift and evolve to become what the business actually needs in order to sustainably grow. To become a business owner and CEO who is thinking about building a successful business, rather than being distracted by ideas for new businesses.
What inspired you to start your own business, and how did you go about identifying a need in the market that your business could address?
I wanted to create a flexible business around my young family, rather than returning to the rigidity of corporate work life. I knew I had skills as a copywriter, but soon identified the need for strategy around content, rather than creating content for content’s sake, which clients loved.
What is your favourite quote about “following your dreams”?
Embrace the pressure that comes with pursuing your dreams, for it is the force that moulds you into the person you’re meant to become. – Angela Duckworth
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to start their own business?
If you have a business idea, just do it. The number one challenge for people starting a business is confidence, but you have to put yourself out there and build your confidence while doing it. Sure, do your due diligence, but if you’re waiting for 100% certainty you’ll never start.
