Copywriters prepare and write content (known as copy) for the purpose of selling and advertising goods and brands on behalf of a business or company. This can include website content, social media posts, blogs, advertisements, slogans, and much more. They need to have an in-depth knowledge of the product or brand they’re writing about to know exactly what they’re selling.
If you have a way with words, great communication skills, and want a job that can be flexible and varied, becoming a Copywriter could be ideal.
About you:
- Excellent writing skills
- Great communicator
- Creative and innovative
- Works well independently
- Can work to strict deadlines
- Organised and efficient
- Flexible and adaptable
- Good tech skills
The job:
- Determining a client’s needs and budget
- Researching a product or company extensively
- Writing and preparing sales copy
- Working with other creatives to create a cohesive brand
- Reviewing and editing content before publication
- Creating a portfolio of work to show off
- Promoting yourself to prospective clients
- Keeping up to date with marketing trends
Lifestyle Impact: Low
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- Part Time opportunities: High – around 41% of Copywriters work part-time (source: gov.au).
- Average hours for full-time workers: 44 hours a week, which is just above average (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
- Copywriters’ salary (median) $68,500* per year (source: ato.gov.au). *Salaries will vary depending on your skills and experience.
- Future career growth: Moderate (source: labourmarketinsights.gov.au).
- You will be doing most of your work indoors, sitting at desks and on computers.
- You will often be working flexible hours, with some extremely busy periods and other times when work is sparse.
Copywriters are most in demand in these locations:
Because most of their work is done on computers, Copywriters can work from almost anywhere. There is highest demand in metropolitan areas and capital cities. Most Copywriters work in the Information Media and Telecommunications, and Professional, Scientific and Technical Services industries.
How to become a Copywriter
Although formal qualifications aren’t strictly necessary to work as a Copywriter, they can boost your skills and employment prospects.
Step 1 – Complete Year 12 with a focus on English and Maths.
Step 2 – Consider studying a relevant VET qualification, such as a Certificate IV in Professional Writing and Editing.
Step 3 – Alternatively, consider studying an undergraduate degree in Journalism, Communication, or Writing.
Step 4 – Start developing a portfolio of work to show off to potential employers.
Step 5 – Once you have lots of experience, consider working freelance or starting your own business.
Find out more here –
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What do Copywriters do?
Copywriters write content used to promote or advertise goods, services, or brands. This can include web content, blogs, social media content, print, television and radio advertisements, brochures, and much more.
Which industries employ Copywriters?
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Copywriters are mostly employed in the Information Media and Telecommunications, and Professional, Scientific and Technical Services industries.
Do I need to go to university to become a Copywriter?
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Not necessarily, but having a VET or undergraduate qualification can boost your employment prospects, as well as your skills and knowledge.
What options are there for career progression?
Although many Copywriters work freelance, there are also opportunities for you to work in-house for a business as part of their marketing team. You might also like to one day run your own business, supervising and managing other Copywriters.
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What are 3 things I can do right now to help me become a Copywriter?
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If you’re in high school and you’d like to find out if a career as a Copywriter is right for you, here’s a few things you could do right now:
- Start building on your writing skills by entering competitions or writing for fun – you’ll need to have perfect spelling and grammar as a Copywriter.
- See if you can find work experience or volunteer in a related field. This can help you build important skills and make contacts for the future.
- Talk to a Copywriter to see what a day in their life is like. If you don’t know anyone, see if you can watch videos or documentaries about the role.
