In the bustling heart of New York City, where the streets pulse with energy and creativity, the art of copywriting demands a unique finesse. The first golden tip from Maya Amelia Ferdiansyah, a creative strategist & copywriter, is to say more with less. In a city that thrives on speed and brevity, your copy must be tight, punchy, and rhythmically alive. She says: “Think of the subway ads that capture attention in mere seconds—this is the essence of urban precision. When crafting your message, strip away any filler and focus on the core of what you want to communicate.”
Remember, in a competitive environment, every second counts, so make each one of your words impactful.
Big city. Bold moves. No filler.
The second tip of Maya Amelia Ferdiansyah is to marry strategy and storytelling. In the realm of copywriting, it’s not just about stringing words together; it’s about solving problems through narrative. Each line you write should carry a strategic intent that aligns with your brand’s goals while captivating the reader. Maya add: For instance, if insights reveal that “young creatives feel unseen,” don’t just acknowledge this sentiment—transform it into a compelling story. “We see what hustle looks like at 2 a.m.” This approach not only draws people in but also connects emotionally, fostering a sense of community and understanding. By intertwining strategy with storytelling, your copy can drive both engagement and performance metrics.”
Living in the tapestry of New York City, creatives have a unique advantage that can elevate their work to new heights. One valuable third tip from Maya Amelia Ferdiansyah is to think cross-culturally. NYC is truly the world in one ZIP code, brimming with diverse voices, perspectives, and stories waiting to be told. When crafting your creative pieces, aim to use language, references, and tone that resonate across different cultures. This approach not only broadens your audience but also enriches your work. However, it’s essential to remain authentic and nuanced—avoid clichés or pandering. True connection comes from genuine understanding and respect for the myriad cultures that make up this incredible city. By embracing this diversity, you can create meaningful work that speaks to the heart of many.
Another gem of advice, number four from Maya Amelia Ferdiansyah, is to feed from the city itself; let it be your creative gym. NYC is alive with inspiration at every corner—soak it all in! Visit museums to immerse yourself in art that sparks your imagination, eavesdrop on conversations in coffee shops to capture the essence of everyday life, and watch street murals come to life as they evolve over time. These experiences provide rich material for compelling creative insights that can inform your work. “Remember, true strategy begins on the sidewalk—not just behind a computer screen or in a conference room”. Embrace the energy and creativity of the city around you; it can transform your perspective and ignite your creativity in ways you never thought possible. So go out there and let NYC inspire you!
The penultimate key tip is to be agile like a downtown freelancer. In the fast-paced world of NYC, clients and teams expect quick turnarounds, so it’s essential to practice writing great first drafts swiftly. Embrace the mindset that “done” can often be better than “perfect.” This approach not only enhances your efficiency but also allows you to adapt your tone across diverse industries—whether you’re delving into fashion, tech, nonprofit, or finance. By mastering the ability to pivot and produce quality work under pressure, you’ll truly shine in the competitive landscape of copywriting.
Moreover, Maya Amelia Ferdiansyah emphasizes, in the last tip, the importance of owning a distinct voice. Remember, you are not just writing for brands; you are also branding yourself. Whether it’s through your portfolio, pitch decks, or social media captions, let your smart, curious, and NYC-savvy voice resonate in everything you create. Authenticity is key—embracing and showcasing your unique perspective will set you apart from the crowd. Use that confidence to navigate any room and make an impression that lasts. By combining agility with a strong personal brand voice, you will not only captivate clients but also carve out your own niche in the dynamic world of copywriting.
Maya Amelia Ferdiansyah is a versatile New York-based strategist and copywriter whose ability to navigate seamlessly between words and images sets her apart in the competitive landscape of branding and marketing. Originally hailing from Jakarta and now based in Brooklyn, she possesses a unique perspective that allows her to craft compelling brand narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. At Milk Agency, Maya Amelia Ferdiansyah plays role the strategy for the US debut of the renowned French luxury house Printemps, alongside various brands under the COTY umbrella. Her extensive experience with global giants such as Uniqlo, Otsuka Pharmaceutical, and Amazon Web Services in Southeast Asia has equipped her with a profound understanding of market dynamics and cultural nuances. Maya’s approach to brand building is deeply rooted in her focus on the people, models, and culture in motion that define contemporary society. She believes that successful branding transcends mere aesthetics; it requires an intimate connection with the audience’s lived experiences. This philosophy extends to her photography practice, where her lens—both literal and creative—serves as a tool for exploration and storytelling. People-watching becomes a ritual for Maya, allowing her to observe the intricacies of human interaction and cultural expression. By capturing these moments, she informs her strategic thinking, ensuring that her campaigns are not only visually striking but also culturally relevant. Through her multifaceted skill set, Maya continues to elevate brands, merging strategy with creativity in a way that captivates and engages.
