Advertising Copywriters, also known in the advertising industry as 'creatives', produce the written words or 'copy' for advertisements in advertising campaigns, such as slogans, catch phrases and text for printed ads and leaflets, they also write scripts and jingles for TV and radio commercials. Advertising copywriters write the ads that millions of people watch, read, and listen to every day. Advertising copywriters work very close with other members of an advertising team to create snappy, integrated, eye-catching advertisements. Copywriters must manage their time very carefully and balance a need for quiet, creative thinking and writing time with the need to deal with many interruptions such as phone calls and meetings with clients and co-workers within their team. Copywriters are often expected to write ads quickly and efficiently to meet advertising campaign deadlines, and they may have to work overtime on occasion.
Jobs with newspapers are more widely available throughout the country. However, not all jobs are advertised, so you could also approach each company directly, or find employment through making contacts in the industry. When you are looking for jobs, you will need a portfolio of work (often known as your 'book') to show to potential employers, you can often obtain employment based on the strength of the creativity and writing ability shown in your portfolio. Applicants for jobs, who provide portfolios of their work, may also be required to take writing skills assessment as a way to prove your abilities. Beginners who are hired by an advertising agency often start out as a copy secretary or copy assistant and learn the business on the job.
Your job begins when you are briefed about the client, the product the advertising campaign is about, the target audience and the advertising message to be put across. Now you and your creative team get to work.
Building a strong portfolio of work is essential for finding employment in this field. Interested individuals should also contact employment agencies, college placement offices, newspaper classified ads, and Internet job banks for leads on copywriting positions. While you search for your first job, you may have the opportunity to freelance your copywriting services to local businesses. Take this opportunity to make some money and gain valuable experience. Advertising is a very popular career among graduates, and competition for jobs is strong. So be prepared for the competition and groom yourself well.
