What does a copywriter do?
Copywriters typically create advertising content for publications and broadcasting purposes. They also write content to promote products and services. They often create text for visual and audio advertisements, promotional brochures, sales letters, billboards, and web content. Copywriters work closely with clients to create the desired theme or slogans to create a successful marketing campaign. They strive to persuade readers, viewers, and listeners to buy a specific product or service and view things in a certain way. Copywriters also perform routine tasks such as writing general interest stories for newspapers and creating press releases for companies. Most copywriters work for newspapers, magazines, public relations firms, advertising agencies, web developers, and advertising departments of major companies.
What kind of training does a copywriter need?
Copywriters typically need at least a bachelor degree in English, journalism, or other related field. Many employers prefer applicants with sufficient writing experience. Many aspiring copywriters complete internships or obtain part-time jobs with school and local newspapers and other publications to gain practical experience. Most employers provide some on the job training to enable new copywriters to learn the expectations and procedures. Most new copywriters start out by shadowing experienced writers and completing simple tasks. They move on to more advanced tasks as the gain the necessary skills and experience. Copywriters must complete regular continuing education and additional training throughout their careers to keep their skills up to date and stay abreast with advancements in the field. They often participate in copywriting workshops, seminars, and conferences.
What are the prospects for a career as a copywriter?
Employment of copywriters is expected to experience little or no change from 2008 to 2018 (1).
Job prospects should be fair with keen competition. Copywriters with extensive experience and those with the ability to write for online publications will have the best job opportunities. Some job openings will stem from the need to replace copywriters that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do copywriters make?
As of February 2010, copywriters with less than 1 year experience earn average annual salaries between $29,361 and $40,399. Those with 1 to 4 years experience earn average annual salaries between $31,510 and $45,885 (2).
A career as a copywriter is a great choice for people with a strong interest in writing content for advertising and publication purposes. Copywriters must have excellent writing skills and a strong knowledge of a variety of copywriting techniques. Patience, creativity, self-confidence, perseverance, and critical thinking are necessary characteristics. Copywriters must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with a variety of clients and other professionals. They must have good judgment and the ability to work under stress and pressure to meet strict deadlines.
