Freelancer in the Spotlight - Meet Lara Piras

We recently interviewed Lara Piras to find out why she chose freelancing and more about being a Copywriter and Researcher.

‍What is a Copywriter and Researcher, and what do you do?

As a Copywriter, I create enticing and engaging copy for brand’s websites, marketing and social media content. And as a Researcher, I work with trend agencies researching and building consumer insight trend reports. I also work with brands on repositioning/ new market exploration projects where I create, host and analyse surveys, workshops and creative tasks to form a comprehensive recommendations presentation for the client in question.

How did you become a Copywriter and Researcher?

I did a lot of internships with trend forecasting agencies straight after university and knew this was the environment I wanted to be in. I loved working with such forward-thinking humans on topics and processes that blew my mind. My professional journey has since taken me down many paths, which I love. I’m lucky to have worked with some of the best companies and brands in the world.

How long have you been freelancing?

I have been freelance for 10 years.

Why did you decide to go freelance?‍

My parents are successful restaurateurs so it’s never been instilled in me that I need to work a 9-5 to get where I want to be. I tried it for a couple of years and I yearned for my freedom and flexibility back. I would however explore the idea of a ‘9-5’ as I believe during and post COVID companies are understanding how beneficial and productive flexi working can be.

What's the best thing about choosing to be an independent professional in your field?

Feeling free. ‘Freelancing’ doesn’t have the word ‘free’ in it for no reason.

What's the hardest thing about freelancing?

Not having reviews or anyone fighting your corner. You have to fight for yourself, by yourself all the time. People always think freelancers are lonely, but co-working spots have ensured we never feel this way. I love them! I’ve made so many new connections and friends because of them and always feel supported. Also, the constant hustle can be tiring at times, but once you’re in the flow and you’re an established freelancer with an established client roster a new and exciting project always comes along.

What's one thing no one ever told you about freelancing you wished you'd known at the beginning?

It’s okay to have quieter periods. I’ve learned over time that having a break doesn’t mean you’ve failed! Embrace that break and use the time to do everything you never have time to: update your website/ LinkedIn, go for a massage. Whatever it is that you feel would be time well spent.

How has YunoJuno helped you as a freelancer?

YJ has helped me connect with new clients and feel part of a freelance community. I love the work you do! Please keep it up!

Can you talk about a project you're proud to have worked on?

I interned for Vogue magazine in New York when I was in my early twenties and it was the most fun and educative time of my life. My mentor saw something in my writing that I may never have and I still thank her to this day for doing so. I wouldn’t be where I am now without her encouraging words.

What advice would you give to someone who wanted to become a Copywriter and Researcher?

Intern in as many different professional environments and departments as you possibly can during and just after studying. See where you feel most inspired and run with that feeling. And don’t be scared of freelancing! It can and does work for so many people. There’s no harm in trying! And if you fail, learn from those failures and find another route to try.

If a client was reading this, why should they hire you?

Because I’m confident, curious, reliable, acutely organised and extremely hardworking, and also a fun person to be around!

‍Meet Lara

Lara's expertise lies in future (youth culture) concepts, qual research, brand strategy, trend forecasting, analysis and research, which she has produced for renowned sites such as The Future Laboratory, LS:N Global, PSFK, Stylus and WGSN and also writes features for magazines such as Refinery29, Vogue U.S., Vogue U.K., and Twin.

Having worked for the best companies in the world re future innovations and strategies, Lara is equipped with the knowledge to drive brands foreword into new realms, as well as create on-point content that resonates with youth-focused publications.