How can I become and Advertising Copywriter?

Question

How do I get into advertising copywriting or a profession of a similar mold?

I have a good degree in English Studies (including a dissertation-level creative writing portfolio), a Trinity College London certificate in TESOL, 'A' level English, two other 'A' level qualifications, 11 GCSEs at grade C and above, and I like creative writing a LOT.

But how do I get into work as an advertising copywriter? From what I have researched, the job sounds ideal for me. I have no problem with the prospect of low or unpaid internships if it leads to a decent job in the field, but how on earth do I get in there?

FM, is that how you went about it? I don't have a list of advertising companies, no. Where can I start?

Answer 1

Getting into the advertising field is all about networking. You don't even need to have the best skills, but if you know the right people then you're set. Start out by asking your friends and family if they know anybody who works in advertising.

(You may not think this will work, but I tried this and it turns out I have a great aunt who I only met once that works in advertising and will be more than happy to put in a good word for me.)

If you do this and you don't find anybody, then try going to your local advertising agencies and asking for an "informational interview." If you ask for a regular job interview then 99% of the time they will turn you down because they only hire people who were refered to them. But in an informational interview you sit down with the creative director or somebody and ask about the work environment, where they get their inspiration for their great ads, what they expect when hiring, etc. They will usually be more than willing to give you a few minutes of their time if they know that you're not going to hassle them for a job.

What hopefully results from this informational interview is you get to add one more person to your network. And maybe the person you're talking with will give you a name of somebody who is hiring. In the advertising world, everybody seems to know everybody...because of this networking. Then you can say, "Hi there, Fred from Adco told me to come see you about a copywriter position." And BAM, you're in. Good luck!

Answer 2

Have you gotten a list of the big name ad companies, and any smaller ones local to you and contacted them about employment even if it is an intership? What you should do is make your own portfolio to show to potential employers, even though it might be stuff you made up.