Freelance Copywriter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the digital age, the demand for freelance copywriters has never been higher.
As businesses increasingly rely on compelling content to engage their audiences, the call for skilled wordsmiths who can craft, enhance, and perfect our online narratives grows louder.
But let’s pull back the curtain: What’s truly expected from a freelance copywriter?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker wanting to understand the depth of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the craft of copywriting,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable freelance copywriter job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Freelance Copywriter Duties and Responsibilities
Freelance Copywriters are self-employed professionals who create persuasive and engaging written content to help brands and businesses communicate effectively with their target audience.
Their duties and responsibilities often include:
- Understanding the needs and goals of clients
- Researching the target audience, competitors, and industry trends
- Writing clear, compelling copy for a variety of mediums (such as ads, blog posts, newsletters, social media, websites, and more)
- Editing and proofreading copy to ensure it is free of errors
- Collaborating with designers, PR and other professionals on large- and small-scale marketing projects (e.g. email campaigns and landing pages)
- Conducting SEO and keyword research and using SEO guidelines to increase web traffic
- Using creative ideas to help design advertising campaigns
- Ensuring all written content meets brand standards and communicates the desired message effectively
- Revising copy based on internal and client feedback/direction
Freelance Copywriter Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a talented and experienced Freelance Copywriter to craft compelling and engaging content that drives customer engagement and conversion.
The Freelance Copywriter will be responsible for producing well-researched, creative and effective content for promotional materials, websites, blogs, and social media platforms.
The ideal candidate should have excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of target audience and industry trends.
Responsibilities
- Interpreting creative briefs to develop and produce creative concepts through execution on assigned brands
- Researching and understanding the client’s needs and target audiences, through online searches, reviews of existing research, interviews with subject matter experts, and in-person meetings
- Writing original copy and editing content for a range of marketing and communications materials
- Collaborating with a team of account managers and creative staff from concept development to delivery of final product
- Presenting copy concepts and final deliverables to internal team, and to client representative as needed, and participating in client pitches on occasion
- Revising copy based on internal and client feedback/direction
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a copywriter or related role
- Knowledge of online content strategy and creation
- Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills
- Experience with SEO
- Strong research skills
- Creativity
- Collaborative spirit
- Excellent time-management and organizational skills
- BSc/BA in marketing, English, journalism or related field
Benefits
- Flexible schedule
- Opportunity to work on a variety of projects and clients
- Remote work options
Additional Information
- Job Title: Freelance Copywriter
- Work Environment: This is a remote position with the occasional need for in-person meetings or brainstorming sessions.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Creative Director or Content Manager.
- Pay: Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as the scope of each project.
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Freelance/Contract
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Freelance Copywriter Do?
A Freelance Copywriter is a self-employed professional who specializes in writing compelling and persuasive text for various advertising and promotional materials such as websites, emails, blog posts, product descriptions, and social media content.
They work directly with clients or through advertising agencies, developing unique, clear, and engaging content that aligns with the client’s brand, marketing goals, and target audience.
A major part of their job is to research and understand the product or service they are writing about, the competitors in the market, and the preferences and behaviors of the target audience.
This understanding helps them craft copy that grabs attention and encourages the audience to take specific actions, like purchasing a product or subscribing to a service.
Freelance Copywriters are often responsible for proofreading and editing their own work to ensure it is free of errors, effectively communicates the intended message, and is consistent with the client’s brand voice and style.
They also need to stay updated with the latest trends in content marketing, SEO, and social media to ensure the copy they produce is relevant and effective in the current market.
Freelance Copywriter Qualifications and Skills
A qualified freelance copywriter should have a range of versatile skills and qualifications, such as:
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to provide clear and engaging content tailored to diverse audiences and platforms.
- Researching skills to gain a deep understanding of the client’s industry, products, and audience to create accurate and relevant content.
- Proficiency in grammar, spelling, and punctuation to deliver high-quality, error-free copy.
- SEO knowledge to write content that increases online visibility in search results and drives website traffic.
- Time management skills to handle multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, remote working environment.
- Creativity to generate new ideas, devise catchy headlines, and create compelling content that stands out and captures the audience’s attention.
- Marketing skills to create persuasive copy that drives action and enhances brand image.
- Self-motivation and discipline as necessary for successful self-employment and meeting client expectations.
Freelance Copywriter Experience Requirements
Freelance Copywriters often start their careers with a background in communications, journalism, or a related field, where they gain foundational knowledge of writing techniques and styles.
Entry-level Freelance Copywriters may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through an internship, part-time role, or through college coursework.
These professionals can also gain valuable experience by maintaining a personal blog or contributing to various online platforms, developing their writing, proofreading and editing skills.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a well-established portfolio that showcases a range of writing styles and formats.
They would have developed their skills in areas like SEO, content strategy, and marketing, often in roles such as Content Writer, Blogger, or Marketing Assistant.
Those with over 5 years of experience in the field typically have a proven track record of successful campaigns and published works.
They may have experience in a specific niche such as tech, finance, or healthcare, making them more desirable for specialized writing projects.
Regardless of the level, all Freelance Copywriters should have a strong command of grammar and punctuation, excellent research skills, and the ability to adapt their writing tone and style to different audiences.
Freelance Copywriter Education and Training Requirements
Freelance Copywriters usually have a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.
They should have excellent writing and editing skills, with a comprehensive understanding of the English language, grammar, tone, and syntax.
Experience in writing for different platforms, such as websites, social media, blogs, press releases, and print ads, is also beneficial.
Knowledge of SEO and digital marketing strategies can be a significant asset for a freelance copywriter, as many clients look for writers who can create content that ranks well on search engines.
While not always necessary, a postgraduate degree in Creative Writing or a related field can further hone their skills and increase opportunities.
Freelance copywriters may also consider obtaining certification from organizations like the American Writers and Artists Inc.
(AWAI), which offers courses in various types of copywriting.
Continuous learning is important in this field, as trends and algorithms often change, requiring the writer to adapt their skills accordingly.
Freelance Copywriter Salary Expectations
A Freelance Copywriter typically earns an average of $29.78 (USD) per hour.
However, actual earnings may fluctify depending on experience, the complexity of the project, and the client’s budget.
Freelancers may also charge a per-word or per-project rate, and some may opt for a retainer agreement for long-term projects.
Geographic location can also affect rates, particularly when working with international clients.
Freelance Copywriter Job Description FAQs
What skills does a freelance copywriter need?
A freelance copywriter needs strong writing and research skills to create appealing and engaging content.
They also require creativity to write original copy that stands out.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are vital to understand and meet client expectations.
Good time management skills are also necessary as they often juggle multiple projects simultaneously.
They should also have a strong command of grammar, punctuation, and style rules.
Do freelance copywriters need a degree?
While a degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field can be beneficial, it’s not a strict requirement for freelance copywriters.
Many successful freelance copywriters don’t have a degree but have honed their writing skills through experience.
However, a portfolio showcasing their writing skills and creativity is crucial to securing clients.
What should you look for in a freelance copywriter’s portfolio?
A freelance copywriter’s portfolio should demonstrate a range of writing styles and tones.
It should contain samples of their work, such as blog posts, articles, sales letters, and promotional materials.
Look for evidence of the ability to write clear, compelling, and persuasive copy.
The portfolio should also show versatility in writing for various mediums, such as print, digital, and social media.
What qualities make a good freelance copywriter?
A good freelance copywriter has a knack for understanding the audience’s mindset and crafting messages that resonate with them.
They are adaptable, able to shift their writing style to fit different brands and industries.
A good freelance copywriter is also deadline-driven, ensuring they deliver quality work on time.
They are also self-motivated and disciplined, qualities that are crucial for successful freelancing.
Is it challenging to find a good freelance copywriter?
It can be challenging to find a good freelance copywriter, given the vast pool of freelancers available.
However, a thorough review of their portfolio, previous client testimonials, and a sample project can help determine if their style and skills align with your needs.
It’s also beneficial to establish clear communication and understand their workflow before starting the project.
Conclusion
So there you have it.
Today, we’ve unveiled the reality behind being a freelance copywriter.
And guess what?
It’s not just about writing content.
It’s about shaping narratives, one compelling word at a time.
With our definitive freelance copywriter job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your next move.
But why limit yourself?
Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your secret weapon for crafting laser-focused job listings or perfecting your resume to the last detail.
Remember:
Every word you write contributes to a larger story.
Let’s create those narratives. Together.
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