Copywriter

Skill 1: Researching
Copywriters must understand the product about which they are writing. This includes learning about what need the product meets, how it works and who will be the intended user. Copywriters must also understand what type of writing works best for a particular media outlet, whether it's print, television or Web based, and the best way to convey a message to the target audience. Additionally, copywriters must be aware of pop culture trends and slang, as well as industry-specific jargon.

Skill 2: Writing
A copywriter's main job is to write persuasive, often sales-oriented, copy. Successful copywriting encourages people to take action. It requires creativity, excellent writing skills and an ability to meet tight deadlines. Copywriters must be able to collaborate with teams of editors, creative directors and account managers; they also interact with clients, pitch ideas, receive feedback and revise their work.
They often write material for the following:
Print, radio and television ads
Brochures and catalogs
Sales presentations & letters
Web content
Articles, ebooks, Press release

Skill 3: Editing and Proofreading
Copywriters must be able to proofread and edit the copy they submit. While they may pitch original ideas and create concepts, they are also expected to make revisions based on feedback from employers and clients. Rewrites may involve everything from polishing a few lines of copy to starting over. In addition to flexibility and strong problem-solving ability, copywriters should possess the following:
Solid spelling, grammar and punctuation skills
Familiarity with stylebooks and other reference materials
An eye for detail
Knowledge of word processing programs and editing tools

Responsibilities
Handle several accounts/projects at the same time, which makes the job varied and interesting.
Typical work activities may include:
liaising with clients and interpreting their briefs;
developing creative ideas and concepts;
presenting ideas to colleagues and clients;
familiarising with the clients' products and services, the target audience and their competitors' activities;
writing clear, persuasive, original copy;
Writing various copy options, which may be presented to the client as a story board (a consecutive series of frames depicting the script and drawings that may be used).
updating digital media;
proofreading copy to check spelling and grammar;
amending, revising or redeveloping adverts or campaigns in response to feedback;
overseeing campaigns through the production stage to completion;
working on several campaigns at once, sometimes under pressure and often to tight deadlines;
casting actors for TV and radio work;
liaising with production companies, photographers, typographers, designers and printers;
keeping up to date with popular culture and trends;
monitoring the effectiveness of advertising campaigns.

Qualifications
This area of work is open to all graduates, although a degree or HND is not essential for a career as an advertising copywriter.
Creativity and the ability to write well are key requirements for a copywriter, and so a qualification in the following subjects may increase your chances:
advertising;
communication or media studies;
English;
journalism;
public relations.