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Copywriter job description

A Copywriter writes the words for advertising and marketing: headlines, taglines, scripts, social posts, web pages and long copy. They take briefs, come up with ideas, and write in the brand's voice, working with an art director and under a senior copywriter or creative lead. The role is the entry point into agency copy. A good one writes clean, on-brief copy that needs little rework, brings fresh ideas to brainstorms, and grows a portfolio of work across formats and categories.

DetailFor this role
DepartmentMedia and Advertising
LevelEntry level
Reports toSenior Copywriter
Direct reportsNone
ExperienceFresher or up to 2 years in copywriting or content

Copywriter job description template

Copy this job description, replace the text in square brackets and post it on your careers page or a job portal.

Job title: Copywriter

Department: Media and Advertising

Reports to: Senior Copywriter

Location: [City], [office, branch or site]

About the role

A Copywriter writes the words for advertising and marketing: headlines, taglines, scripts, social posts, web pages and long copy. They take briefs, come up with ideas, and write in the brand's voice, working with an art director and under a senior copywriter or creative lead. The role is the entry point into agency copy. A good one writes clean, on-brief copy that needs little rework, brings fresh ideas to brainstorms, and grows a portfolio of work across formats and categories.

Key responsibilities

  • Take briefs and write headlines, taglines, scripts, body copy, social posts and web content in the brand's voice.
  • Bring ideas to brainstorms and help develop concepts with the art and creative team.
  • Pair with an art director so copy and visuals work together.
  • Write and adapt copy across formats such as film, print, digital and radio.
  • Revise copy through feedback rounds from the senior writer and client.
  • Proofread your own copy for grammar, spelling and brand tone before sharing.
  • Research the brand, category and audience before starting to write.
  • Check copy for factual accuracy and required legal lines.
  • Adapt copy into other lengths, sizes and languages as needed.
  • Keep a file of your published work to build a portfolio.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in English, mass communication, advertising or a related field
  • Writing samples or a starter portfolio
  • A second Indian language is an advantage
  • Fresher or up to 2 years in copywriting or content

KRAs and KPIs for a Copywriter

Key result areas for the appraisal form, each with a KPI you can measure every month or quarter.

Key result areaHow to measure it
Copy qualityCopy accepted with limited rework on most jobs
On time deliveryCopy delivered by the agreed date at least 95 percent of the time
Idea contributionBring usable ideas to brainstorms regularly, not just execute briefs
AccuracyCopy shared with few grammar, spelling or tone errors
Brand voiceWriting matches each brand's voice with minimal correction
GrowthBuild a portfolio across formats over the year

Skills and tools

CopywritingIdea generationGrammar and languageScriptwriting basicsSocial media writingResearchCreativityOpenness to feedbackAttention to detail

Tools used day to day: MS Word or Google Docs, Grammarly, Social platforms, Presentation software, Reference and research tools.

Reporting line and career path

Senior CopywriterCopywriter
Moves up from: Intern, Content Writer
Next roles: Senior Copywriter, Creative Group Head

Interview questions for a Copywriter

  1. Write me a headline for a new filter coffee brand right now. Explain your choice.
  2. How do you get from a dry brief to a fresh idea?
  3. What makes copy sound like a brand rather than just correct sentences?
  4. How do you take feedback that rejects a line you were proud of?
  5. How do you check your copy before you send it?
  6. Which ads or campaigns do you admire, and why?

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Frequently asked questions

What does a copywriter do?

A copywriter writes the words for advertising and marketing: headlines, taglines, scripts, social posts, web pages and long copy. They take briefs, come up with ideas, and write in the brand's voice, pairing with an art director. It is the entry into agency copy, working under a senior copywriter or creative lead.

How do I become a copywriter with no experience?

Build a portfolio before you apply. Write sample ads, headlines and social posts for real brands you like, even unpaid. A degree in English, mass communication or advertising helps, but agencies hire on ideas and writing, not just marks. Internships are the most common way in, so apply widely and keep writing.

What is the difference between a copywriter and a content writer?

A copywriter writes short, persuasive advertising copy: headlines, taglines and scripts meant to sell or spark action. A content writer writes longer, informative pieces like articles and blogs meant to inform and rank in search. The skills overlap, but copy is punchy and idea-led while content is detailed and useful.