What does a freelance copywriter do?

A freelance copywriter is anyone who produces content or text on demand. The ‘freelance’ indicates that they operate as a free agent, usually carrying out clearly bounded copywriting projects or commissions on an ad hoc basis and for a range of clients. ‘Copywriter’ is a loosely defined term, since copywriting often includes a range of tasks that may be much more precisely defined in other industries (such as publishing): writing, rewriting, structuring, planning, editing, copy-editing, proofreading and liaison with a range of other professionals such as graphic designers and web developers.

When they work with businesses, freelance copywriters provide support to the marketing function by writing marketing materials such as brochures, advertisements and websites. Typically, the freelance copywriter will deal with the marketing manager or marketing director, although in a smaller firm the MD or CEO may approach the freelance copywriter direct.

Freelance copywriters also work with agencies, where they support the creative work of the agency by adding a copywriting function to their service portfolio. While many agencies offer writing services, they may choose to use a freelance to do the actual work – either because they lack the capacity for copywriting in-house, or because they need the skills of a specialised copywriter.

Freelance copywriters also work with other types of client – public sector organisations, charities, academics – anyone who needs something written might be interested in the services of a freelance copywriter.