How To Get an Entry-Level Copywriting Job: Your Ultimate Guide

What Does an Entry-Level Copywriter Do?

Being an entry-level copywriter is an exciting opportunity to craft persuasive and compelling messages that captivate audiences.

When you start copywriting as a beginner for entry level jobs, your primary responsibility is to create written content that promotes products, services, or ideas. Whether it’s a captivating headline, an engaging social media post, or a persuasive sales page, your words have the power to influence consumer behavior.

To succeed as an entry-level copywriter, you need a strong command of language and the ability to create persuasive narratives.

Your goal is to effectively communicate a brand’s message and value proposition, while also captivating the target audience’s attention. You’ll be working closely with marketing teams, understanding their goals and objectives, and translating them into compelling copy that drives action.

For example, imagine you’re working for a new fitness brand that wants to promote its line of workout apparel. Your task as an entry-level copywriter would be to create engaging product descriptions that not only showcase the features of the apparel but also evoke emotions and highlight the benefits.

Your words need to paint a vivid picture of how customers will feel confident, comfortable, and stylish while working out.

What Qualifications Do You Need to Be a Freelance Writer?

When it comes to freelance writing, qualifications can play a role in establishing credibility and expertise. However, the beauty of copywriting is that it’s a field where your skills and portfolio often speak louder than formal qualifications or formal education.

While having a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, or Communications can certainly be advantageous, it’s not a strict requirement to kickstart your copywriting career and get your first copywriting client.

What really matters is your ability to write persuasively, engage readers, and deliver compelling messages. Focus on honing these essential skills through practice, continuous learning, and real-world experience to become a good copywriter.

Building a strong portfolio that showcases your writing prowess and diverse range of copywriting samples will be more valuable than any degree.

Entry-Level Freelance Copywriting Jobs for Beginners

Let’s explore some examples of the best opportunities for beginners to kickstart their writing careers.

Writing Business Emails and Email Marketing

Every business relies on effective email communication to connect with clients, customers, and partners. As an entry-level copywriter, you can offer your services in crafting compelling business emails. This could include writing engaging subject lines, persuasive sales pitches, or informative newsletters.

Creating Newsletters

Newsletters are an effective way for businesses to stay connected with their audience and build customer loyalty. As an entry-level copywriter, you can specialize in crafting engaging newsletters that provide valuable information, share updates, and promote products or services.

Social Media Management

Social media platforms have become a powerful marketing tool for businesses, and they require captivating and concise copy to engage the audience. As an entry-level copywriter, you can offer your services in managing social media accounts and creating attention-grabbing posts. This includes crafting compelling captions, writing effective ad copy, and adapting the brand’s voice to various platforms.

For example, you can consider working as content writer with a fashion brand. Your role would involve writing engaging captions that showcase the latest trends, create excitement around new collections, and encourage audience interaction. By understanding the brand’s target audience and leveraging the power of social media, you can help businesses build their online presence and drive customer engagement.

Blogging and Content Creation

Content marketing is on the rise, and businesses are constantly seeking engaging and informative blog posts to attract and retain customers. As an entry-level copywriter, you can offer your skills in creating valuable blog content that educates, entertains, and positions the brand as an authority in its industry. This could include writing informative articles, product reviews, or how-to guides.

Let’s say you collaborate with a tech startup. Your task would be to write blog posts that simplify complex technological concepts, offer troubleshooting tips, or discuss the latest industry trends. By delivering informative and accessible content, you’ll help businesses establish themselves as knowledgeable leaders in their fields.

Product Descriptions

E-commerce businesses heavily rely on persuasive product descriptions to entice customers and drive sales. As an entry-level copywriter, you can specialize in writing compelling and persuasive product descriptions that highlight the features, benefits, and unique selling points of various products. This requires the ability to capture the essence of a product and communicate its value effectively.

How to Become a Successful Copywriter: Your Path to Success

Becoming an entry-level copywriter requires a combination of honing your writing skills, building a portfolio, and gaining practical experience. Here’s a roadmap to help you get started:

Hone your writing skills

Strong writing skills are the foundation of copywriting. Start by practicing regularly and diversifying your writing styles. Experiment with different tones, voices, and formats to develop versatility. Challenge yourself to write in various genres such as persuasive, informative, or conversational.

Study successful copy

To excel as a copywriter, it’s crucial to study the work of experienced professionals. Analyze successful ad campaigns, captivating social media posts, and engaging website copy. What techniques do they use to grab attention? How do they evoke emotions or create a sense of urgency? By dissecting and understanding effective copy, you can learn valuable strategies to apply in your own work.

Let’s say you’re studying a successful advertisement for a luxury watch, for instance. Take note of how they highlight the craftsmanship, evoke a sense of exclusivity, and appeal to the desire for status and elegance.

Build a portfolio

A portfolio is your professional showcase that demonstrates your skills and showcases your best work. Start by creating samples that represent different copywriting styles and target various industries. If you don’t have any professional experience yet, consider writing speculative pieces or offering your services pro bono to local businesses or non-profit organizations.

A good portfolio has a variety of projects such as social media posts, website copy, sales letters, product descriptions, landing page copy, and advertisements to showcase your versatility.

Develop a niche

While being a versatile copywriter is valuable, picking a copywriting niche can help you stand out and attract clients. Consider specializing in an specific industry, or type of copywriting that aligns with your interests and expertise. For example, you could focus on writing copy for the beauty and wellness industry or become an expert in crafting compelling email newsletters.

By niching down, you can position yourself as a go-to copywriter in your chosen field, making it easier to target relevant clients and showcase your expertise.

Learn digital marketing fundamentals

Copywriting and digital marketing go hand in hand. Understanding the basics of digital marketing will enhance your copywriting skills and make you more valuable to prospects and clients. Familiarize yourself with concepts such as SEO (Search Engine Optimization), social media marketing, and content strategy.

For instance, understanding SEO will help you optimize your copy to rank higher in search engine results, driving organic traffic to a client’s website.

By integrating digital marketing principles into your copywriting, you’ll be able to create content that not only resonates with readers but also serves the client’s marketing goals. Not only will you become a copywriter who understands how to craft compelling copy, but you’ll also be someone who knows how to get eyeballs on their content.

Network and collaborate

Building a strong professional network can open doors to entry-level and copywriting business opportunities. Attend industry events, join copywriting or marketing groups on social media, and actively engage with professionals in the field. Networking can lead to referrals, collaborations, and valuable connections with potential clients.

Be genuine, offer help, and contribute to conversations. Building a network takes time, so be patient and persistent.

Continuous learning

Copywriting is an ever-evolving field, and staying updated on industry trends and best practices is essential. Follow industry blogs, read books on copywriting, and invest in online courses or workshops to enhance your skills and learn copywriting more. Continuous learning will not only improve your craft but also demonstrate your dedication to excellence to potential clients.

6 Sites to Find Entry-Level Copywriting Jobs

They include:

1. Upwork: Upwork is one of the largest freelance marketplaces, offering a wide range of copywriting jobs. Create a professional profile, showcase your portfolio, and actively apply to relevant job postings.

2. ProBlogger Job Board: ProBlogger Job Board specifically caters to bloggers and copywriters. It features a variety of freelance writing opportunities, including blog posts, articles, and content creation.

3. TextBroker: TextBroker is an online platform connecting writers with clients who need content. As a beginner copywriter, you can create an account, complete a writing sample, and receive a star rating. The platform provides clear guidelines, deadlines, and the opportunity for growth based on client feedback. It also offers a supportive community for writers to connect and learn from each other. Use TextBroker to develop your skills, work with clients, and establish yourself as a copywriter.

4. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a powerful professional networking platform where companies often post copywriting job opportunities. Optimize your profile, highlight your skills, and actively engage with relevant industry professionals to increase your visibility.

5. Mediabistro: MediaBistro is a popular online platform that serves as a resource hub for professionals in the media and creative industries. It offers a variety of services, including job listings, industry news, educational resources, and networking opportunities. MediaBistro is particularly known for its job board, where employers post freelance and full-time positions in various media-related fields, including copywriting, editing, journalism, marketing, public relations, and more.

6. FlexJobs: FlexJobs is a reputable job platform that specializes in remote and flexible work opportunities. It features a wide range of job categories, including copywriting. The platform offers a curated list of remote copywriting jobs from trusted companies, ensuring that you find legitimate and high-quality opportunities.

That said, while these sites can have fierce competition, they are still valuable for beginners. They provide practical experience, help build portfolios, and establish industry reputations. Don’t be discouraged by other talented individuals vying for the same positions.

Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow as you showcase your skills and stand out from the crowd.

To increase your chances of success, here are a few tips:

1. Tailor your applications: When applying for remote copywriting jobs, carefully read the job descriptions and requirements. Customize your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the job. Show the employer why you are the perfect fit for the position.

2. Create a standout profile: Craft a compelling profile that highlights your expertise, writing style, and relevant experience. Use a professional headshot and write a captivating bio that demonstrates your unique value as a copywriter.

3. Write a compelling cover letter: Your copywriter cover letter is your chance to make a memorable impression. Craft a well-written and persuasive letter that showcases your passion for copywriting, highlights relevant experiences or skills, and demonstrates your understanding of the company or client’s needs.

4. Be responsive and professional: Timely communication is crucial. Respond promptly to client inquiries or messages and maintain a professional and courteous tone throughout your interactions. Show that you’re reliable, easy to work with, and committed to delivering exceptional results.

5. Showcase your unique value: Differentiate yourself by highlighting what sets you apart from other copywriters. Whether it’s a specialized skill, industry expertise, or a unique perspective, emphasize what makes you valuable to the client.

How To Get an Entry-Level Copywriting Job: Cold Pitching to Marketing Agencies or Companies

Cold pitching involves reaching out directly to marketing agencies or companies that may need copywriting services, even if they haven’t advertised any job openings.

While it can be intimidating, cold pitching can also be an effective way to proactively find entry-level copywriting opportunities.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting a compelling cold pitch:

1. Research your target: Identify marketing agencies or companies that align with your interests, values, and areas of expertise. Research their websites, social media presence, and previous campaigns to gain a deep understanding of their brand voice and needs.

2. Craft a personalized pitch: Tailor your pitch to each recipient, addressing their specific pain points or goals. Explain how your copywriting skills can help them achieve their objectives, whether it’s increasing sales, enhancing brand awareness, or improving customer engagement.

3. Showcase your portfolio: Attach samples of your work that demonstrate your ability to write compelling copy and capture the brand’s essence. Highlight relevant projects that align with the recipient’s industry or target audience.

4. Follow up: After sending your initial pitch, follow up politely if you don’t receive a response within a week or two. Persistence can sometimes lead to opportunities that might have been missed otherwise.

Remember, cold pitching requires patience and resilience. Not every pitch will result in a job, but with persistence and continuous improvement, you’ll increase your chances of securing entry-level copywriting projects.

Potential Income as an Entry-Level Freelance Copywriter

As an entry-level copywriter, it’s important to set realistic expectations regarding your potential income. The copywriting market is competitive, and rates can vary based on factors such as your experience, niche specialization, and the complexity of the project.

In the beginning, entry-level copywriters often charge lower rates to attract clients and build their portfolios. However, as you gain experience and develop a reputation, you can gradually increase your rates.

Freelance copywriters commonly charge either per hour or per project. Hourly rates typically range from $25 to $75, depending on factors such as your location, skill level, and the client’s budget.

Per-project rates vary greatly depending on the scope and complexity of the project, but they can range from a few hundred dollars for smaller projects to several thousand dollars for larger campaigns.

Remember that while the potential income can be lucrative as you advance in your career and become an experienced freelance copywriter, it takes time and dedication to reach higher earning levels. Focus on consistently improving your writing skills and knowledge, delivering exceptional results, and building strong client relationships to increase your earning potential over time.

Final Words

As you embark on your copywriting journey, remember that every great writer was once a beginner. Embrace the inevitable challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth. With each word you write, you’ll become a better storyteller, a more persuasive communicator, and a true master of the craft. So, don’t be discouraged by initial rejections or moments of self-doubt.

Surround yourself with a supportive network of fellow writers, mentors, and resources that can nurture the growth of your freelance writing business. Seek feedback, continuously improve your skills, and never stop honing your craft.