The copy writer needs to think of the concept or idea for the advertisement. He needs to write slogans and punch lines. Also, the ad copywriter needs to work out the ad presentation. Depending on the job, an ad copywriter might also need to play his part in ads for print, electronic or online media.
The collection of words and images in the form of an advertisement is something that is the job of the advertising copywriter. You need to be original, inventive, and observant other than having a broader perspective and approach to situations. A copywriter also needs to work with the art directors, print agencies, photographers and other members of the crew.
Requirements
Obtain a degree in any of the following fields:
• Journalism
• Mass Communication
• English
• Advertising
• Marketing
• Liberal arts
• Media studies
You may go for a bachelor's or master's degree, or earn an associate qualification for the job of an advertising copywriter.
Skill sets: If you have a flair for writing and have a command over the English language, then advertising copywriting is a job that is meant for you. Knowledge of MS Office and Power Point and additional courses in multimedia designing and arts is also an important skill set.
Again, you need to have extraordinary creative abilities and a good sense of humor. You must also have excellent communication, interpersonal skills and team spirit. These help in team coordination and giving presentations, etc. Your decision making should also be good and you must have a vision. Understanding the consumer psychology is also required to ensure that the ad is just right to impress the audience. Knowledge of script writing and story depiction techniques is an added advantage.
Training: The advertising copywriters need training by getting enrolled in various kinds of writing courses that help you gain a professional and objective view. Working as interns or trainees can help you a lot in an advertising copywriting career. You can check online job sites or newspapers to check vacancies. You must have a place where you can display your school projects, college assignments, and advertisement concepts you have created during your internship or training.
Prior experience: You should be ready to work as an assistant or intern or be employed in other jobs in the media until you can chance upon your dream job. Experience in advertising copywriting makes you a pro in the field. You can call the marketing as well as advertising firms, TV stations, newspapers, magazines, as well as other media houses for the best experiences. Send in the sample resumes and write ups as well as apply for the entry level positions which do not require years of experience. You may even speak to the college advisors and newspapers and online job listing portals for the latest openings in the copywriter section.
Employment Outlook:
Career prospects (globally): The advertising copywriters can consider doing some of the freelance jobs or start their own businesses once you are experienced in the field. However, there is ample scope for them to embark on a lucrative as well as prospective career for gaining clients. The job vacancies are available if you check with the internet or classifieds. With selling skill and creativity, you can go a long way, and ambition can take you to the pinnacle of the ad agency or department of your company. Depending on the expertise and experience, there are many positions in ad copywriting. You can start at a junior level as a copy writer then go on to become a senior copywriter and later a copy writing director.
Salaries: The salary of a copywriter can vary from $37,000 to $91,000.
Being a copywriter is a fun thing to do if writing comes naturally to you. With the growth of all kinds of media there is immense growth and many opportunities in the advertising field.
