Copywriting.org Interviews Ken Grobe

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Q1. Where are you from?

San Francisco, CA

Q2. How did you discover copywriting?

I’d been recognized at my school and among my family as having writing talent. One summer, my mom suggested I take an ad copywriting class taught by a guy who wrote for Chiat\Day and I learned the basics. I was the youngest person there and knew the least about the advertising industry. But it planted a seed.

Q3. What forms of copy do you write?

Name the surface and I’ve written for it: TV ads, websites, email campaigns, blog posts, case studies, social. My talent lies in capturing the nuances of the client’s voice and fitting them to the nuances of the media.

Q4. What are your favorite niches to write in?

I really enjoy crafting brand materials (mission statements, brand voice strategy, brand books) and writing for video.

Q5. What is the #1 lesson you've learned as a copywriter?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Q6. Who is your favorite copywriter & why?

Manning Rubin, a multi-Clio-winning copywriter and creative director who taught me the craft when I was a junior writer at a web design shop. He was also a published author and a mentor to many other creatives over the years.

Q7. Do you have any recent wins to share?

I currently write SPIN Magazine’s SPIN ON BRAND newsletter, where we cover partnerships between brands and the music industry, two subjects I’ve always had a passion for. We also cover related subjects (we’ve had a LOT of AI coverage lately), which continues to keep it varied and interesting.

Q8. What would you say to a prospective client who wants to hire you?

I’m plug-and-play: I know how to ramp up quickly, what to ask to get the details I need, and how to deliver the quality you need, when you need it.

Q9. What is a good email address for prospective clients to contact you?

ken@ideaczar.com