How to Develop a Portfolio for a Copywriting Job

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Copywriters are wordsmiths, but they also must be able to work with art directors to combine images and words that convey a message. A portfolio is a collection of words and images in the form of advertisements, brochures, direct mail pieces or other pieces that show how the copywriter effectively communicated a client's message. Even if you are new to copywriting, you can develop a portfolio to get your first job.

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Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Portfolio case

Step 1

Take a copywriting course. Some courses, like the one at New York University School of Continuing and Professional Studies, give you assignments that can be used for portfolio pieces. Even though they are not real ads, they will give a prospective employer an opportunity to see how you think and write.
Step 2

Develop your own portfolio pieces. Think of a fictitious product and write an ad for it. Ask an art student or graphic artist to develop your words and images into an ad. You might have to pay a little for this service, but it will be worth it.
Step 3

Apply for freelance work. Look for work at local ad agencies, especially smaller ones. Because their budgets are not as large, they are sometimes willing to hire a freelance copywriter who has little experience but can do the job. When the pieces are printed, make sure you get copies of them and put them in your portfolio.
Step 4

Buy a good portfolio case. You can get one at your local art store. This will give you a leg up over a person who comes in with a binder full of samples.
Step 5

Keep working and updating your portfolio. Your portfolio should include only your best work, not everything you've ever written. Remember to update it as you write new pieces.