One month ago I started working as a copywriter.  

As the name suggests, a copywriter produces written advertising content, known as ‘copy,’ rather than the graphic or visual elements, which are usually handled by a separate team.

A copywriter’s work includes leaflets, blogs, articles, presentations, video scripts, etc.

Basically, anything with words on it is my job!

Learning to write full time has been a big adjustment and working in a marketing agency comes with a lot of deadlines and pressure.

Here’s how I survived my first month as a copywriter.

Study the craft

Going straight into an industry with little experience can be a difficult and daunting task but preparing with plenty of research can give you the upper hand.

I read books, like “David Ogilvy on Advertising” and, every night after work, I would listen to a podcast by Rory Sutherland or some other industry leader on the latest trends in advertising.

These study sessions might not be directly related to your day-to-day but I often find myself thinking of Ogilvy’s advice, on writing headlines, when I am struggling to come up with something catchy.

(I wrote a review of Ogilvy’s book that you can read here).

Studying your craft and honing your skills can really help you to succeed as a copywriter.

Act on criticism

It is always tough to receive criticism of your work, especially if it comes unexpectedly – just because you think your piece is great, doesn’t mean the client will like it!

Listening to constructive advice is the most important aspect in growing as a copywriter.

It teaches you how to write the best copy, what a client’s tone and style are, what messages they are trying to convey and who their audience is.

Listening to criticism is the only way to ensure you don’t make the same mistakes twice, so take it on the chin.

Keep organised

Keeping on top of your workload is non-negotiable as a copywriter.

I learned this in my very first week on the job, from a colleague who taught me a few valuable strategies to stay ahead of my tasks.

(I wrote about my very first week as a copywriter here.)

I now keep all my emails in folders categorised alphabetically by client name and flag any tasks up as soon as they arrive in my inbox.

I’m a little old fashioned and always print out my work plan so I can tick tasks off as I complete them, but there are also plenty of online planners to keep your work organised.

Writing everything in a diary helps too!

Work hard

This rule goes for inside and outside the office.

I’ve been shocked at how much writing I can get done during work time but even more surprised at how productive I’ve been outside of the office.

Getting into a good routine helps.

Every day I hit the gym at 5:30am, make a good breakfast and write my personal blog before I leave the house.

This sets me up right for the day and puts me in a good mindset.

Working hard in the office puts you in a great position mentally and lets your boss know you are grateful for the job… I hope.

It is really rewarding to tick off your weekly tasks as you complete them too, giving you a great sense of accomplishment.

I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the job so far and can highly recommend the role of copywriter to anyone interested in marketing.

To learn about my first week as a copywriter click here. Or, subscribe below for weekly updates!