Getting a good writing sample is important for any budding copywriter. However, not all agencies offer the same level of experience and training, so it’s essential to know where to look for the best possible deal. Keep reading for some useful tips on how to find a copywriting job that suits your needs.
Decide Whether You Want To Be Paid Or Not
This is a decision you need to make right at the beginning. Do you want to be paid for each assignment, or would you prefer to work on volunteer basis? The former is probably the best option if you want to build up your portfolio quickly. However, you should note that agencies that offer paid copywriting samples may not be the best places to gain experience. The reason is that they have already committed to paying you for a sample and are likely to ask you to complete a certain number of assignments per week. If you’re looking for a way to beef up your portfolio quickly, you might be better off taking up a copywriting challenge, where you can submit articles and pitches for free. Don’t worry, though, as there are plenty of reputable agencies out there that offer good training and opportunities to build your career. All you need to do is make sure you apply to those agencies while you’re still a student.
Get A Good Writing Portfolio
If you’re looking for a copywriting job, it’s important to have a good portfolio to showcase your skills. Don’t just rely on your university or college to provide you with a good writing sample. Instead, look for opportunities to get noticed by established agencies that can offer you a good contract. After all, having a few successful pieces under your belt will make you much more desirable to any potential employer. There are plenty of freelancing platforms out there that can help you find clients and projects that suit your abilities. Don’t be afraid to use these freelance platforms to their full advantage. They can help you find a niche, build your portfolio, and eventually land you that all-important first commercial contract.
Look For Work Near Your Home
Not all copywriting jobs are created equal. Some agencies might ask you to travel for certain projects, so be sure to consider the location of the project when deciding where to apply. If you’re looking for a beach holiday, for example, you might be better off working remotely for an agency based in the UK or Ireland. Working remotely isn’t going to be possible for everyone, but it’s a luxury that many professionals now enjoy. Being able to work remotely can keep you further ahead of the competition and give you the flexibility to pursue other projects and opportunities as they arise.
Know The Specialties And Strengths Of The Agencies You’re Applying To
It’s important to understand the specialties and strengths of the agencies you’re applying to. This way, you’ll know exactly what they’re looking for and what you need to bring to the table. If you’re not sure, ask the recruitment agent or call the agency directly. This way, you’ll ensure you don’t waste their time with applications that don’t seem to fit their needs. Most importantly, be sure to focus on what they are looking for and avoid applying for jobs that you feel you’re not suited for. This will give you the best shot at getting hired, and ultimately, land you that first copywriting contract.
Apply To The Agencies That Can Offer You The Best Possible Training
There are several training courses and specializations you can follow to become a successful copywriter. To name but a few, you can train to become a medical copywriter, a pharmaceutical copywriter, an environmental copywriter, an insurance copywriter, or an educational copywriter. Just make sure you apply to agencies that offer the training you need to advance your career. If you don’t have a clear idea of what you need, simply ask the agency representative for an outline of the training you’ll receive. This way, you’ll be sure to choose an agency that offers the best possible training for you.
Follow The Agency’s Instructions
Once you’ve been selected for an interview, the agency representative will give you more detailed instructions on what to bring. Make sure you follow these instructions carefully. If you’ve been given any paperwork to do before the interview, do it as soon as possible. This will help ensure you don’t have anything distracting you during the interview. Being organized is essential when it comes to copywriting interviews.
Research The Recruitment Process
Finally, don’t forget to research the recruitment process. It’s important to understand what is entailed in getting the contract you want. Many agencies will throw a lot of work at you quickly, but be wary of those that don’t seem to put in the effort. Make sure to research the process completely before you start working. This way, you’ll know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
Getting a good sample is only the beginning, but it’s an important one. Once you’ve got that, you can begin to hone your skills and build up your portfolio. With a little bit of luck, you’ll be able to land your first big contract and begin to make your mark on the industry. Good luck out there.