Are you a skilled wordsmith? If so, copywriting might be the career path for you.
But first, what is copywriting and what does a copywriter do? Copywriters are major players in the world of marketing and advertising as they develop copy for a variety of assets with the goal of generating conversions and sales.
Looking for copywriting opportunities?
If you have a passion for writing copy that makes a meaningful and measurable impact, here’s what you need to know about how to become a copywriter.
WHAT DOES A COPYWRITER DO?
Behind every great advertisement or marketing asset, there is a copywriter.
Copywriters create engaging content for a variety of uses and platforms. This includes websites, blog posts, articles, print and digital ads, emails, social media posts, thought leadership pieces, white papers, case studies, and more.
As a copywriter, you create content driven by a goal to move readers to action. You write to inform, educate, engage, persuade, and inspire your target audience. The copy you write may be to build brand awareness, position your organization as an authority, and, of course, drive sales.
WHAT SKILLS AND ABILITIES DO COPYWRITERS NEED?
An effective copywriter blends what they know about writing, marketing, and technology so that they can meaningfully connect with their target audience by crafting clear, compelling, and relevant messaging.
If you’re wondering how to become a copywriter, these are just some of the skills and traits that can help you:
Stellar writing and editing skills
Exceptional research skills
Basic marketing skills and content marketing knowledge
Ability to adapt writing style for various clients, audiences, and platforms
Willingness to accept and learn from feedback
Search engine optimization (SEO) knowledge
Keen attention to detail
Ability to think creatively
Effective communication skills
Commitment to meeting deadlines
Natural curiosity
Now that you have an idea of what kind of skills you need to launch your career as a copywriter, where do you start? How do you get experience, and most importantly, work as a copywriter?
If you already work in marketing, you might consider asking your manager if you could shadow a copywriter on your team. Networking with other copywriters, both virtually and in-person at conferences, trainings, and writer meet-ups is another great way to learn more about the industry. Utilize professional platforms like LinkedIn where you can follow skilled copywriters and read their work. Make sure to sign up for copywriting webinars and register for professional certification programs.
WHAT DO HIRING MANAGERS AND CLIENTS LOOK FOR?
From entry-level to more senior copywriters, the specific qualifications and experience employers seek will vary based on their organization’s needs. But most hiring managers look for copywriters who have some experience writing professionally and working in marketing.
Hiring managers will want to see writing examples that highlight your ability to craft a compelling message. Examples might include blog posts, published articles, or any copy you’ve created for marketing campaigns.
If you haven’t done so already, consider creating a digital portfolio showcasing your best writing samples. If you’re a bit further along in your copywriting career and specialize in a specific niche (content marketing, eCommerce, white papers, or snappy ad copy), make sure to emphasize that expertise in your portfolio. If you are more of a copywriting generalist, show a range of work to highlight the full breadth of your skills.
WORK WITH 24 SEVEN
Whether you’re interested in finding a full-time job or freelance copywriting role, the expert recruiters at 24 Seven are ready to be a free job search resource for you.
24 Seven specializes in helping people find work in the creative, marketing, fashion, beauty, and retail sectors. Our team is tapped into a vast network of organizations looking for copywriters, and we often know of newly open positions before they’re even listed.
If you’re ready to launch your career as a copywriter, contact our team of recruiters today!
