How to Become a Copywriter: The Complete Guide (2024)
If you’re wondering how to become a copywriter, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting a successful copywriting career in 2024 - even if you have no experience.
The beauty of copywriting is its accessibility - you don’t need special credentials or years of formal education. What you do need is dedication to learning the craft, understanding human psychology, and developing your writing skills. Whether you dream of working remotely from exotic locations, want to build a thriving freelance business, or hope to join an exciting advertising agency, copywriting can open those doors for you.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything from the foundational basics to advanced strategies for building a six-figure copywriting career. You’ll learn not just the theory, but practical, actionable steps you can take to start your journey today.
What is a Copywriter? Understanding the Basics
A copywriter is a professional writer who creates persuasive content designed to drive action. Unlike content writers who focus on informing and educating, copywriters specialize in writing sales-focused materials that convince readers to take specific actions - whether that’s making a purchase, signing up for a service, or joining an email list.
Types of Copywriting Work
The scope of copywriting has expanded dramatically with the rise of digital marketing. Today’s copywriters work across multiple channels and formats, each requiring its own specialized approach and skills. Here’s a comprehensive look at the main types of copywriting work available:
Traditional Copywriting:
- Sales letters and direct mail
- Print advertisements
- Brochures and catalogs
- Billboard and outdoor advertising
- Radio and TV commercial scripts
- Press releases
Digital Copywriting:
- Email marketing campaigns and sequences
- Website landing pages and sales pages
- Social media ads and organic posts
- Google and Facebook ad copy
- Product descriptions for e-commerce
- Video scripts for YouTube and social media
- Blog posts and articles with sales intent
- Mobile app store descriptions
Technical and Business Copywriting:
- White papers and case studies
- Business proposals
- Technical product descriptions
- Software documentation
- Annual reports
- Company newsletters
- Internal communications
Each type of copywriting requires a different approach and skill set. For example, writing a compelling email sequence demands different techniques than crafting effective billboard copy. The key is understanding the constraints and opportunities of each medium.
Three Main Career Paths
When deciding how to become a copywriter, you’ll need to choose which career path aligns best with your goals, work style, and desired lifestyle. Each path offers distinct advantages and challenges. Let’s explore the three primary options in detail:
1. Agency Copywriter:
- Work for an advertising or marketing agency serving multiple clients
- Regular salary and benefits
- Collaborative environment with creative teams
- Exposure to diverse industries and brands
- Clear career progression path
- Structured work environment
- Often requires in-office presence
- Typical salary range: $45,000-$120,000+
2. Corporate Copywriter:
- Write copy exclusively for one company as an in-house writer
- Stable income and benefits
- Deep understanding of one brand
- Close collaboration with internal teams
- Opportunities for advancement within the company
- Regular business hours
- May offer remote work options
- Typical salary range: $50,000-$100,000+
3. Freelance Copywriter:
- Run your own business and work with various clients directly
- Unlimited income potential
- Complete schedule flexibility
- Freedom to choose projects and clients
- Work from anywhere
- Control over rates and workload
- Requires business management skills
- Income can be irregular at first
- Typical earnings: $30,000-$250,000+
Most copywriters try different paths throughout their careers. It’s common to start at an agency or corporation to gain experience before transitioning to freelance work. Some maintain a hybrid approach, combining a steady corporate position with freelance projects on the side.
How to Become a Copywriter with No Experience: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Master the Fundamentals of Copywriting
To become a copywriter, you need to understand the core principles of persuasive writing:
- Research and understand your target audience
- Write clear, compelling headlines
- Focus on benefits over features
- Create urgency and scarcity
- Use social proof and testimonials
- Include strong calls-to-action
- Write in a conversational tone
Action Item: Read foundational copywriting books like:
- Scientific Advertising by Claude Hopkins
- The Boron Letters by Gary Halbert
- Breakthrough Advertising by Eugene Schwartz
2. Develop Essential Copywriting Skills
Successful copywriters possess these key skills:
- Strong writing and editing abilities
- Research and analytical thinking
- Understanding of marketing principles
- SEO knowledge
- Adaptability to different brand voices
- Time management
- Communication and collaboration
- Basic design awareness
3. Choose Your Copywriting Specialty
While you can write copy for various mediums, specializing in one or two areas can help you stand out:
- Email copywriting
- Direct response copywriting
- Social media copywriting
- SEO copywriting
- Technical copywriting
- Video script writing
- B2B copywriting
- E-commerce copywriting
4. Build Your Portfolio
Even with no experience, you can create an impressive portfolio:
- Write sample pieces for imaginary clients
- Offer free work to local businesses
- Create spec ads and sales letters
- Volunteer for nonprofits
- Start a blog to showcase your writing
- Take on small projects on freelance platforms
5. Find Your First Copywriting Clients
Multiple paths exist to land your first copywriting jobs:
Entry-Level Options:
- Freelance job boards (Upwork, ProBlogger, etc.)
- Content agencies
- Local businesses
- Cold emailing potential clients
- Networking on LinkedIn
- Social media groups
- Professional associations
Pro Tip: Start with smaller projects to build confidence and testimonials before pursuing higher-paying work.
6. Set Your Copywriting Rates
As you gain experience, adjust your rates accordingly:
- Entry-level: $0.05-0.15 per word
- Mid-level: $0.15-0.50 per word
- Expert: $0.50-$1.00+ per word
Project-based pricing examples:
- Sales letters: $100-5,000+
- Email sequences: $50-500 per email
- Website copy: $500-5,000+
- Social media posts: $25-250 per post
7. Scale Your Copywriting Business
Once you’ve gained experience, focus on growth:
- Build Your Brand:
- Create a professional website
- Develop a strong social media presence
- Start an email list
- Share case studies and results
- Find Better Clients:
- Target high-paying industries
- Partner with marketing agencies
- Ask for referrals
- Speak at industry events
- Improve Your Skills:
- Take advanced copywriting courses
- Join professional organizations
- Attend industry conferences
- Study successful campaigns
Common Questions About Becoming a Copywriter
Do I Need a Degree to Become a Copywriter?
No, you don’t need a specific degree to become a copywriter. While some copywriters have degrees in English, Marketing, or Communications, many successful copywriters are self-taught. What matters most is your ability to write persuasive copy that drives results.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Copywriter?
You can start working as a copywriter within a few months of dedicated learning and practice. However, becoming a highly-paid copywriter typically takes 1-2 years of consistent work and skill development.
How Much Do Copywriters Make?
Copywriter salaries vary widely based on experience, location, and specialization:
- Entry-level copywriters: $35,000-50,000/year
- Mid-level copywriters: $50,000-75,000/year
- Senior copywriters: $75,000-100,000+/year
- Experienced freelance copywriters: $100,000-250,000+/year
Tips for Success as a New Copywriter
- Study Successful Copy:
- Analyze effective sales letters
- Save compelling ads and emails
- Create a swipe file of inspiration
- Practice Consistently:
- Write every day
- Test different styles and approaches
- Get feedback from experienced copywriters
- Focus on Results:
- Track conversion rates
- Collect data and metrics
- Build case studies
- Build Professional Relationships:
- Network with other copywriters
- Join copywriting communities
- Maintain good client relationships
Resources for Aspiring Copywriters
Essential Books for Copywriters
The following books have shaped the careers of countless successful copywriters. While some are classics from the early days of advertising, their principles remain powerfully relevant today:
Foundational Books:
- Cashvertising by Drew Eric Whitman - A modern classic that breaks down the psychology of persuasive writing
- Tested Advertising Methods by John Caples - Though out of print, this is considered one of the most valuable resources for learning copywriting
- The Robert Collier Letter Book - A masterclass in writing persuasive sales letters
- Ogilvy on Advertising by David Ogilvy - Essential wisdom from the original “Mad Man”
- Scientific Advertising by Claude Hopkins - The book that David Ogilvy said should be read “seven times”
Modern Practical Guides:
- This Book Will Teach You How To Write Better - A quick, practical guide to improving your writing
- Advertising Secrets of the Written Word by Joseph Sugarman - Advanced techniques from a master copywriter
- The Freelance Content Marketing Writer - Excellent guide for building a sustainable writing business
Pro Tip: Many successful copywriters recommend handwriting out successful sales letters to internalize the rhythm and structure of effective copy. Create a collection of these to study and reference in your own work.
Online Learning:
- CopyHour
- AWAI Courses
- Copy Chief Community
Professional Organizations:
- American Writers & Artists Institute (AWAI)
- Professional Writers’ Alliance
- Direct Marketing Association
Conclusion
Becoming a copywriter is an achievable goal with the right approach and dedication. Focus on mastering the fundamentals, building a strong portfolio, and consistently delivering results for clients. Whether you choose to work as a freelance copywriter, join an agency, or work in-house, the opportunities in copywriting continue to grow as businesses increasingly need compelling copy to stand out in today’s digital world.
Remember that every successful copywriter started exactly where you are now. By following this guide and staying committed to improving your skills, you can build a rewarding career as a copywriter - even if you’re starting with no experience.
Ready to begin your copywriting journey? Take action today by choosing your specialty, studying the fundamentals, and creating your first portfolio pieces. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be on your way to a successful copywriting career.
