Today we’d like to introduce you to Defne Gencler
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
How did I get to where I am today? That’s a good question and one I’m even still figuring out.
I was born in the Netherlands to Turkish parents and spent half my life in the United States. I’ve been in so many different situations and environments that I had to learn how to communicate with various different people from a young age.
Writing made up a big part of that. I was constantly writing in my journal, reading books, and performing in plays to feel like I could reach people.
After graduating with a BA in Philosophy, I wrote for various online publications, startups, and large companies in New York. At the same time, I also acted and performed stand up comedy in New York.
My love for the unconventional led me to pursue a freelance copywriting career, which flourished quickly. From there, I launched a copywriting agency, so I guess that’s how I ended up here.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
I’ve been the odd one out so many times. New kid from Europe at an American public elementary school. The public school kid at a prestigious private middle school. The American kid at an international high school. And the European kid again at an American college.
I’ve also seen a lot of ups and downs in my career. Writing for digital outlets for next to minimum wage. Walking dogs to make extra cash while unemployed. Getting scammed by a literal conman when I gave freelancing a try the first time around. Having jokes bomb on stage. Getting rejected for parts in theater productions. Lots of experiences that I now use as entertaining stories at parties.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I now run a copywriting agency that writes website copy, scripts, emails, and more.
People should work with us over our competitors for a few different reasons.
We’re a global team with a diverse group of writers around the world. This means we’re not of any industry or target audience. We don’t just bring expertise, we bring experience.
Besides a way with words, we also offer strategic guidance and advice to our clients. If we think you might see better results in a way you haven’t tried before, we’ll let you know. We’re passionate about CRO, SEO, UX, and creative direction to name just a few.
Lastly, as a Founder, I have experience doing the actual work. Everything my team does has been thoroughly vetted by me. This entire company acts as an extension of the experience and high-quality work I’ve delivered throughout my 8+ years as a digital marketer. I’m not just overseeing my team, I’m contributing to their personal and professional growth, too.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
My best piece of advice is not so much a statement but a question. I’ve always been driven by this one:
Do I want to be the person who gives things a shot? Or do I want to look back on my life and be the person who wishes they did?
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Success to me means trying all the things I’ve ever wanted to, giving everything I can to them, and learning everything I can from them.
What’s next for you?
What’s next? Continuing to grow my copywriting agency!
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
Website: www.laurelleaf.co
Twitter: twitter.com/omgitsdef
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/defnegencler/
