Robert W. Bly

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Robert W. Bly -- often referred to in the trade as "Bob Bly" -- is an authoritative writer on the subjects of copywriting, freelance writing, and other marketing/writing subjects.

Bob, age 48, has been a professional writer since 1979 and a full-time freelance writer since 1982. He has written marketing copy for over 100 clients including Network Solutions, ITT Fluid Technology, Medical Economics, Intuit, Business & Legal Reports, and Brooklyn Union Gas. Awards include a Gold Echo from the Direct Marketing Association, an IMMY from the Information Industry Association, two Southstar Awards, an American Corporate Identity Award of Excellence, and the Standard of Excellence award from the Web Marketing Association.

Bob is also the author of more than 60 books including The Complete Idiot's Guide To Direct Marketing (Alpha Books), The Copywriter's Handbook (Henry Holt & Co.), and Getting Started as a Freelance Writer (Sentient Publications). However, in September 2006, he announced his "retirement" from writing books due to being disgruntled with the publishing industry. In a subsequent notice in the December 7, 2006 edition of his newsletter, Bob said he was also retiring from all speaking, coaching, and seminars, to focus exclusively on copywriting for his clients and building his internet info-publishing business.

His articles have appeared in numerous publications such as DM News, Writer's Digest, Amtrak Express, Cosmopolitan, Inside Direct Mail, and Bits & Pieces for Salespeople. He has been a featured speaker at writers' conferences nationwide. Thousands of writers have attended in person or listened on tape to his popular seminars, "How to Write a Nonfiction Book and Get It Published" and "How to Make $50,000+ a Year as a Freelance Writer."

Prior to becoming a copywriter and author, Bob was advertising manager for Koch Engineering, a manufacturer of process equipment. He has also worked as a marketing communications writer for Westinghouse Defense.

Bob Bly holds a B.S. in chemical engineering from the University of Rochester and has been trained as a Certified Novell Administrator (CNA). He is a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the Business Marketing Association. He currently lives in Dumont, New Jersey, near New York City.