Divine Write Copywriting Forum

Hi Sally. And welcome!

Thanks for your post. It's a question I get asked a fair bit, and one that I imagine most aspiring copywriters ask themselves.

In my quest for sub-contractors, I've reviewed hundreds of copywriter applications. Nearly all have included both a resume and a portfolio. Although I will generally scan a resume, I don't pay it anywhere near as much attention as I do the portfolio. And if I happen to check out the portfolio first (and dislike it), I skip the resume altogether.

For me, as for all employers, taking on a new copywriter is a big risk. Even if they're a great writer, there's a lot of investment involved in getting them up to speed. And if they turn out to be bad, any investment is lost.

In order to mitigate this risk, we need to see your capability 'in the field'. Seeing on-paper qualifications is nice, but it doesn't prove you can write.

So my advice is to just write some stuff that's relevant to the employer. Don't give it to them (unless they employ you); just present it by way of showing your capability. So if they're an agency that does a lot of real estate copy, right some property descriptions. If they do a lot of IT stuff, right the Home page for an IT company.

In fact, write a few different samples - different subject matter and different styles (web, brochure, script, etc.). Then, even though you're still presenting as a junior, you'll have a portfolio to show them.

Writing copy for a hypothetical client can be difficult. Visit my other site, , for a list of tips on writing for a hypothetical client.

While you're there, you might consider signing up. You could use FreeCopywriting as a litmus test for your copy. If your copy is downloaded by lots of customers, you can assume you're on the right track. If not, you can assume you have some work to do.

What's more, when customers download your copy, I actively encourage them to contact the original copywriter if they want anything else written. See for further details.

Hope this helps.

Hey Sally,

If you want to get a job as a copywriter, consider applying for AWARD school. It’s pretty much become the most recognised industry qualification with around 85% of advertising creatives having completed it.

It runs for around 12 weeks, with a lecture on a Monday night and a tutorial on a Wednesday or Thursday night. If memory serves right, it costs around $800 and is held in most capital cities.

It's deliberately tough, but at the end of it you'll have created a portfolio of 12 ads, and you’ll meet lots of art director hopefuls, giving you the opportunity to form a writer/art director partnership.

During the course you’ll find out a lot about the creative side of copywriting from those that do it for a living, and importantly you’ll make lots of industry contacts.

Good luck,

Fraser Mason