Just like different types of written work, professional writers come in many forms. A professional copywriter may work in a permanent job and do freelance jobs on the side. Some writers can choose to work full time or part time, and on a team or alone. Copywriting jobs usually fall into one of several broad categories including fiction, non-fiction, marketing, and business writing.
A professional copywriter who writes fiction typically works in one or more of many areas. Professional copywriters can write children’s books and stories, short stories, novels, poetry, and articles for literary journals. Many create plays, movie and television scripts, and other forms of creative writing. These types of projects sometimes can be six-figure copywriting opportunities. Some of these copywriting jobs include working on a creative team, and some are working independently.
For content and informational sites, a non-fiction professional copywriter typically is needed. Most of these types of copywriters do research and write newspaper, radio, magazine, television, and Internet news stories, travel copywriting, and other journalism projects. Academic research and scientific reports also can fall into this copywriting category. Most biographies, autobiographies with a ghostwriter, and e-books also are written by professional copywriters.
Marketing writing is another form of work for a professional copywriter. These types of projects usually need persuasive, informative writing to sell a product or service. Copywriting opportunities can include search engine optimization (SEO), e-mail writing, brochure writing, radio writing, press release writing, and Website writing. Many marketing writers also create sales letters, direct mail, magazine, Internet, radio, and television advertisements. Some write marketing plans and overall strategic plans as well.
Many professional copywriters work in companies and corporations to create all types of business writing. These copywriting jobs include researching and writing white papers, proposals, proposal requests, and case studies. A professional copywriter in this type of job also may write business plans and employee handbooks, as well as internal and external company communications. Resume writing also is a type of business copywriting.
There are many different ways to become a professional copywriter. Many writers have educational backgrounds in journalism, English, or advertising. Some people who have writing talent and skills start off with internships or pro bono work to build a writing portfolio. Some professional writers began their career paths in other areas, became subject experts in a specific area, and then transitioned to writing. For those with writing abilities, there usually are many copywriting opportunities available.