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Writer/Author

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AVG. SALARY

$49,960

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EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What They Do

Writers and Authors Career Video

Insider Info

Ever sing along to a commercial or appreciate the words in an advertisement? Turns out you were admiring the work of a copywriter. Or maybe you are curious about how politicians have the time to write so many speeches? They don't. Copywriters are behind the scenes everywhere, from advertising companies to campaign offices, creating words for other people to use.

Copywriters produce everything from jingles for TV commercials to lyrics, funny slogans and witty phrases. They produce billboards and magazine ads, too.

Copywriters work on a variety of publications, including speeches, news releases, manuals, brochures, articles, reports, presentations, newsletters and correspondence.

Those who work in the advertising field write scripts and slogans for advertisements or commercials about a product or service. They work closely with artists, creative designers and their clients.

"The purpose of advertising copywriting is to sell something -- whether it's a company or a concept or a widget in a box," says copywriter Jim Shamlin in Texas.

Copywriters specializing in advertising can work for newspapers, advertising agencies, department stores, public relations firms, radio, TV, marketing companies or for sales promotions firms.

"For example, a copywriter in a publishing house would write jacket copy, a copywriter at a public relations firm would write a lot of speeches and press releases, and a copywriter at an advertising firm would write commercials," says Shamlin.

Writing done for firms and companies is done in the office. However, many copywriters freelance or work on contract.

Those working at large firms may have to do other work aside from plugging away at the keyboard. They are sometimes required to copy edit, proofread, check facts, transcribe or translate documents.

A copywriter who works in a firm generally works a 40-hour workweek. Some overtime is required near deadlines. Copywriters who freelance work as little or as many hours as it takes to complete a project.

Writing copy is not a physically demanding job. Good typing and reading skills are an asset. A physically challenged person can do this work easily. Computer technology for people who can't use keyboards, such as speaker sets, is continually being developed.

Just the Facts

Want a quick overview of what this career is about?Check out Just the Facts for simple lists of characteristics.

At a Glance

Write everything from jingles to speeches

  • Technological advances are creating a need for versatile writers
  • You can work for large companies, private writing services, the government or advertising firms
  • Some post-secondary education is an asset