If you’re interested in looking into advertising copywriting as a career, there are some specific skills you need to hone. The style of writing needed relies more on words and phrases rather than sentences and paragraphs. You have to be able to get a complete thought communicated in just a few words. In addition, you need to try to infuse an experience or an emotion into your description. And, ideally, you’ll leave readers with the desire to take action—which, of course, is most commonly to go buy whatever it is your client is selling.
You need to be a good writer, of course, and you need to be able to write interestingly and with freshness. There’s a lot of art and creativity involved, but it’s important to remember that copywriting is also a business. You need to listen to your client, identify the important points of the emerging message, and find ways to communicate that message persuasively. Your client has business goals and it’s your job to provide solutions to help achieve those goals.
Copywriting jobs are usually found with advertising agencies, but some large retailers have their own ad departments. You can also look into writing copy for radio, television, newspapers, neighborhood ad sheets, and direct mail pieces.
Competition for copywriting jobs can be very tough and you’ll have a better chance at success if you get some training and experience. Some universities offer degrees in copywriting and you can look at art schools as well.
Copywriting can be an exciting, fast-paced career. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re a good writer, can write creatively and persuasively, and also have a knack for business, it could be a good career for you.
Comments