Treat a cover letter like you would a pitch to prospective clients–by adding value. As for resumes, this may help you flesh out yours: https://filthyrichwriter.com/copy-qa-resume-woes/

Thanks for commenting!

Hi Hannah,

The first step is really to get the training to actually write copy well. And, as part of that training, you should get both experience and samples for your portfolio. The combination of all of those put you in a much better position to apply for (and get!) a copywriting job. If you’re thinking copywriting might be a good option for you, I encourage you to sign up for our Comprehensive Copywriting Academy waitlist so you can find out more about what we offer. You can get on that list right here.

Thanks for commenting!
Nicki

Hi there!

When you’re just getting started, you want to aim to create samples across a broad range of media (banner ads, emails, newspaper ads, direct mail, etc.) for a broad range of products and services. You want to prove to potential clients and employers that you’re able to do all different kinds of work, not just work in one medium or for one type of client.

I’d also recommend that you avoid sticking to one medium because there are going to be very few jobs in which they’ll only want you to work in one. For example, it’s very, very rare that you’d get a job doing just email writing; it’s much more likely that you’d get a job doing various types of interactive work.

Be very wary of anyone who tells you to pick a niche early in your career. You don’t want to limit yourself too soon—and you also don’t know what all of your options are. Right now, aim to get as broad of experience as possible.

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Nicki

(I hope you don’t mind me calling you Nicki!) As someone who is looking to break into the copywriting scene, without any experience whatsoever, I do have one further question regarding online portfolios.

In terms of portfolio work for a copywriter, I am assuming that content is king – but the layout of the copy and the general scope of whatever product/service it addresses, would probably have an impact on the length and style of writing.

Before I go on rambling, would you say that, for an entry-level portfolio with nil experience, it’s best to vary the mediums and approaches in my portfolio pieces? Or would you rather suggest that I find a medium I personally love to work with and stick with it? (Also would comps be alright or should I be looking for as final a product I could muster?)

Thanks in advance!

Hi Nina,

I’m glad you found us, too! Unfortunately, your case isn’t uncommon. (Or maybe fortunately, now that you know how to do it better? 🙂 ) Most people/books/resources teach us to write cover letters in a very templated, me-oriented way instead of actually conveying information the potential employer wants to and needs to hear. But now you know and all of your future cover letters will knock their socks off!

Thanks for commenting!
Nicki