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So, what exactly is copywriting?
Copywriting is any text that seeks to sell you something. You find it in web copy, press advertisements, and TV commercials. In fact, copywriting is everywhere – on big posters, local newspaper ads, and in every clever slogan. We use copywriting to produce press releases, brochures, or radio commercials. And when you put a postcard in a newsagent’s window, to sell your old bicycle, you’re using copywriting again.
What Attributes do you need to be a good Copywriter?
- Good with Words: Able to produce crisp, clear sentences. Contrary to popular opinion, copywriters don’t use fancy words; we aim to write clearly and simply.
- Interest in Advertising & Marketing: A keen eye for how messages are crafted and conveyed.
- Responsiveness: Capable of producing work quickly, often under tight deadlines.
- Collaboration: While many copywriters work independently, being able to work well with clients and colleagues is key.
Who Employs Copywriters?
There are three ways of working in copywriting:
1. Self-employed freelance copywriter
This is how most copywriters work. Freelance copywriters get their work from advertising agencies and directly from clients.
Advantages: You’re your own boss. There’s no limit on how much you can earn. You can even build up your own ad agency if you want. You can fit your work around your other commitments, and you can work from home.
Disadvantages: Your income is unreliable. If a major client stops using you, your income will fall. How to get in: Decide what kind of firms might need a freelance copywriter, and promote yourself to them.
2. Employee in an agency
Several kinds of agency employ full-time copywriters. They include advertising agencies, direct mail consultancies, and sales promotion consultants.
Advantages: It’s a lively and glamorous atmosphere, and you may get to work on big accounts. The work will be varied. You’re likely to work with an art director (a graphic designer) to produce interesting work.
Disadvantages: Copywriters suffer the same problems as other employees: job insecurity, lack of recognition, cheap coffee, and the problems of commuting.
3. Using your skills in a related role
For example, you might be employed in a large business in a marketing position, you might run your own retail shop, or you could be a therapist. Almost every job requires a knowledge of copywriting, whether that’s to persuade customers to buy your products or to get agreement from your boss.
How much do Copywriters earn?
- Big variation based on role and location. A chief executive of a major ad agency could earn $130,000 (£80,000) or more.
- A copywriter in a big city agency might earn $55,000 (£35,000), while regional ad agency roles offer £22,000 to $50,000 (£14,000 – £25,000).
- Check out job ads in the marketing trade press for a sense of current rates.
What Qualifications do I need?
- You don’t need formal qualifications; your writing skills matter most.
- A degree can be helpful for larger firms, but isn’t essential.
If you have little or no experience in copywriting, consider taking our course and you could be starting a new career sooner than you think.
