Copywriters

Employers

Writers and authors, including copywriters, held approximately 150,700 jobs in the United States. Advertising and public relations firms are the largest employers of copywriters. Many copywriters are self-employed and bid work to these companies.

Starting Out

Most copywriters start out in entry-level positions, working as office assistants or copywriting assistants. These jobs may be listed with college career services offices or at an online job site. You can also try applying directly to the hiring departments of the advertising agencies or other large companies that have public relations departments. Graduates who previously served internships with these companies often have the advantage of knowing someone who can give them a personal recommendation.

Employers will often ask to see samples of published writing. These samples should be assembled in an organized portfolio or scrapbook. Bylined or signed articles are more credible (and, as a result, more useful) than stories whose source is not identified.

Many copywriters choose to work as freelancers, meaning that they are self-employed. Several Web sites are available, such as https://www.upwork.com, where freelancers can bid on projects. The wages are generally fairly low, but the work is best if one is starting out and looking to build a portfolio. From there, a self-employed copywriter can build an online presence with a Web site of their projects and services. With experience, a copywriter should be able to increase the amount they can charge per hour or project.