Are you a wordsmith with a flair for creativity and a knack for persuasion?

Perhaps you’re just intrigued by the world of advertising and marketing?

In this article, we take a closer look at what it’s like to work as a copywriter in a marketing agency, as well as explore alternative paths such as freelancing and working at in-house marketing departments.

What is a copywriter?

‘Copy’ is the written words of an advert – pure and simple.

As a copywriter, you write advertising material.

But the scope of copy can range widely depending on what type of marketing you are involved in.

During my first few months as a copywriter, I have written scripts, blog posts, web pages and many more types of marketing content.

The life of a copywriter in an advertising agency

Working as a copywriter in an advertising agency can be an exciting and dynamic career choice.

Here’s a glimpse of what your life might look like in this role:

• Creative challenges: Your primary task as a copywriter is to craft persuasive and compelling content, whether it’s for print ads, online campaigns, or social media. This means you’ll be brainstorming, drafting, and editing copy that resonates with your client’s target audience.
• Collaboration: In an agency, you’ll often work as part of a creative team – which is a highlight for me. Collaborating with creative directors, designers, social media experts, and other writers is a huge perk of the job.
• Tight deadlines: Advertising agencies are known for their fast-paced environment. Tight deadlines are common, and you’ll need to adapt to quick turnarounds. Time management and the ability to work under pressure are essential skills and can take a while to get used to.
• Client interaction: As a copywriter, you may also interact with clients to understand their goals and requirements. Effective communication and the ability to translate client briefs into compelling copy are vital.
• Variety: One of the perks of working in an agency is the diversity of projects. You’ll get to work on campaigns for various clients and industries, keeping your work interesting and diverse.

Working schedule

The working hours of a copywriter vary, but it typically follows a standard 9-to-5 schedule.

In a separate article, I go through my typical  working day, hour-by-hour. You can find that article here.

Alternative paths

If the agency life doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, don’t worry – there are alternative paths for copywriters:

• Freelancing: Many copywriters choose to work as freelancers. This allows you to have more control over your schedule and select the projects that align with your interests. However, freelancing comes with the added responsibility of finding clients and managing your own business. You really are on your own in this case – be prepared for hard and sometimes unsuccessful work.
• In-house marketing departments: Some companies have in-house marketing teams, and they often hire copywriters to work exclusively for them. This offers stability and a more predictable work schedule compared to agency life but you won’t be exposed to the variety that many of us crave.
• Content marketing: Content marketing roles are also popular for copywriters. These positions involve creating blog posts, articles, and other written content for a brand. It’s a slightly different avenue that focuses on creating valuable and informative content.

In another blog, I define the difference between a copywriter and a content writer. Click here to read more.

What should you do next?

If you’re just starting out, here are a few tips to help you navigate your copywriting career:

• Build a portfolio: Create a strong portfolio that showcases your best work. This will be your ticket to getting noticed by potential employers or clients – I am constantly updating mine to showcase my best work. The best way to do this is by starting a blog.
• Continuous learning: Stay up-to-date with the latest advertising and marketing trends. The industry is constantly evolving, so ongoing learning is crucial. Also, read books on marketing!
• Network: Building connections can open doors to exciting opportunities – you never know who might be able to help you out.
• Be adaptable: Whether you choose the agency life, freelancing, or an in-house position, be prepared to adapt, and learn on the job. Each path has its unique challenges and rewards.

A career as a copywriter can be a rewarding journey for those who are passionate about creativity.

Whether you decide to work in an advertising agency, freelance, or in-house, your writing skills and ability to connect with an audience will always be in demand.

My best advice – get writing! Hone your craft and start applying for copywriting roles today!

For more marketing tips, click here. Or, subscribe below for two marketing insights per week!