How to Become a Copywriter
Copywriter Career Profile, Salary, & Job Outlook
What does a Copywriter do?
A copywriter is a professional writer that works across many industries. Their standard responsibilities include writing the text — also known as copy —used in marketing advertising, and promotional materials. The intent of their work is to connect with and inform consumers so that they are encouraged to purchase a product or service, or respond to another call to action. Copywriters are hired by agencies and corporations, or may work as freelancers moving between both.
How much does a Copywriter make?
According to Glassdoor, Copywriters make a national average of $72,986 or $35.09 an hour. In general, entry-level copywriters make around $34,000 annually, with senior-level copywriters making $166,000 a year. This wide range also depends on skill, seniority, company, and location.
What impact does this career have towards the media industry?
Copywriting is a central pillar of strategic marketing and lead generation. Copywriters produce engaging and informative content to build an emotional connection that resonates with consumers. For many companies, copywriting is the consumers first impression of the brand and its mission.
What is the job outlook for a Copywriter?
As of 2021, the U.S. journalism industry’s annual revenue was $24.65. The U.S. book industry — including self-published and commercially published titles — made $25.93 billion in revenue in 2020. Analysts forecast that digital publishing revenue in the U.S. will reach $35 billion by 2025. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities in the writing field (including Copywriters) will increase at a rate of 9% during the 2020-2030 decade.
How to kick-off your career:
- Follow publishing news to track acquisitions, bidding wars, and new releases.
- Choose your specialty; do you have an interest health and wellness? Develop your healthcare writing skills.
- Explore the NYU American Journalism x Rolling Stone Modern Journalism and The New School x Rolling Stone Media Writing online courses.
- Download Yellowbrick’s Ultimate Media Career Guide.
Learn from:
Emily Leibert
Modern Journalism contributor, Staff Writer at Jezebel
Related Careers:
Content Strategist | Social Media Coordinator | Advertising Manager | Publicist | Communications Officer | Director of Communications
