Copywriter Role and Responsibilities
A copywriter wrote this. But what else do they do?
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About Copywriters
A copywriter is a professional writer who specializes in creating marketing and advertising copy. They are responsible for crafting compelling and persuasive messages that grab the attention of the target audience and persuade them to take action. Copywriters work closely with other members of the marketing and creative teams to develop effective marketing campaigns that support the overall goals of the business.
Responsibilities
Here are the top 10 responsibilities of a copywriter:
- Developing ideas for marketing and advertising campaigns, and writing clear and persuasive copy that aligns with the campaign's objectives.
- Collaborating with other members of the creative team, such as art directors and designers, to create effective and cohesive marketing materials.
- Conducting research on the target audience and the industry to inform the messaging and tone of the copy.
- Writing copy for various marketing channels, including websites, email campaigns, social media posts, and advertisements.
- Proofreading and editing copy to ensure that it is error-free and meets the company's standards for quality and style.
- Working with the marketing team to ensure that the copy aligns with the overall branding and messaging of the company.
- Keeping up-to-date with industry trends and best practices to ensure that the copy is fresh, engaging, and effective.
- Providing support to other departments, such as product development, by writing product descriptions and other materials.
- Managing multiple projects simultaneously, and meeting deadlines and budgets.
- Continuously improving their copywriting skills and staying current on the latest marketing and advertising techniques.
Why writing skills matter
Great copy starts with great writing. Clear, persuasive communication turns simple messages into ones that inspire action.
A strong copywriter makes complex ideas easy to understand — whether explaining a product, a policy, or a process. Clear, concise writing builds trust and keeps readers engaged, while confusing copy quickly loses them.
Strong writing also means knowing how to structure a message, use the right tone, and balance detail with simplicity. It’s the foundation of every effective piece of content.
The importance of communication and empathy for copywriters
Strong communication skills are at the core of great copywriting. But it’s not just about speaking clearly or writing well — it’s about understanding people. The best copywriters pair communication with empathy, recognizing what their audience needs and how to connect with them authentically.
Copywriters rarely work in isolation. They collaborate with designers, marketers, and clients, sharing ideas, receiving feedback, and refining messages together. Empathy makes these interactions more productive — it helps writers listen closely, interpret feedback without defensiveness, and adjust tone or messaging to meet both business goals and human emotions.
Even outside of formal teams, empathetic communication builds community. Joining writer groups, exchanging critiques, or learning from peers deepens both skill and perspective.
