Jobs for writers: Copywriting
Writing is a tough way to earn a living, so it's worth exploring different types of writing, either to find a niche, or simply to broaden your skills to a new market. This week sees the start of a new series where we look at different types of writing jobs.
'Wikipedia defines Copyriting as : the act or occupation of writing text for the purpose of advertising or other forms of marketing. The product, called copy or sales copy, is written content that aims to increase brand awareness and ultimately persuade a person or group to take a particular action.Copywriters help create billboards, brochures, catalogs, jingle lyrics, magazine and newspaper advertisements, sales letters and other direct mail, scripts for television or radio commercials, taglines, white papers, social media posts, and other marketing communications.'
We're constantly surrounded by sales copy, and it is probably the type of writing to which we are most exposed.
So how do you become a copywriter?
- - There are copywriting courses you can take, and this blog evaluates the courses available. LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com) offers courses on Copywriting, and you can have a month's free trial.
- - You can read about Copywriting, practise, and work at it, and build your skills and reputation. The complete guide to copywriting is a great article to get you started.
You will need a good understanding of the internet, how internet advertising works, and SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) works ie how to ensure that your writing ensures that the site comes in first (or as close to the top as possilbe) in a search engine's results.
It's one of those jobs that you can do remotely, with just your computer and a good internet connection, which is perfect for the current pandemic world.
How do you find copywriting jobs?
One of my go-to sites for writing jobs is Freelance Writing Jobs, a curated list of different types of writing jobs. Sign up for free to receive regular emails alerting you to writing jobs.
Copywriting is a mainstream job, so you will find it advertised on regular job sites like Reed; Indeed; and on freelance sites like Upwork; fiverr; peopleperhour
This blog has some great ideas on how to get started.
Ultimately, as with any type of freelance writing, you have to know your market, and provide good quality writing at the right time to the right client.
Why not try your hand at it today?