Copywriter
What's it like to be a Copywriter?
A Copywriter (Kaituhi Pānui) writes content that sells products and services. They may work within marketing or communications agencies, media organisations, large businesses and organisations, or be freelancers who work with various clients. Copywriters can work on a variety of projects, from short-form social media copy to longer blog posts and articles. The main distinction between a Copywriter and a Creative Writer or Journalist is that a Copywriter’s work is meant to help sell something, although these different types of writers often possess similar and overlapping skills. Copywriters must have strong grammar and editing skills. SEO (search engine optimisation) and digital marketing skills can also be beneficial.
Tasks and duties
- Researching products to identify selling points.
- Planning an advertising approach and tone of voice.
- Writing sales copy for different platforms including press, radio, websites, film, billboards, catalogues and shop displays.
- Collaborating with other creative departments such as marketing and design as well as senior editors to fulfil an advertising brief.
- Reviewing and editing copy for publication to ensure adherence to a style guide and professional standards.
- Researching and writing technical, information-based material and documentation for manuals, textbooks, handbooks and multimedia products.
How to become a Copywriter
While there are different pathways to becoming a Copywriter, many have a degree in a related field.
Complete a bachelor degree in a related field, such as communication, journalism, marketing or creative writing.
Build a portfolio. Whether you want to be an in-house Copywriter or work as a freelancer/contractor, a good way of getting your foot in the door is to develop a portfolio. If you don’t have any paid copywriting samples, examples of your writing from other sources (such as coursework or creative writing) could be included.
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Skills and experience employers are looking for
