The traditional definition of a copywriter is "a writer of advertising copy." In recent years, however, the role has been applied to a broader spectrum of writing. Copywriters create copy for many forms of literature, such as advertising copy (still the main role of copywriting), marketing communications, websites, brochures, catalogs, sales letters and presentations, newsletters, and training programs, just to name a few. A copywriting professional can either work at an established advertising or copywriting firm or be a freelance writer.
Copywriting experts work for organizations of all kinds, whoever needs copy written; some typical clients include businesses, government agencies, ad agencies, design firms, video/film producers, and publishers. In order to become a professional writer of copy, you must first learn how to write copy. Imagine that! Copywriting is not the same as writing books, magazine articles, or school papers. I recommend you take a course or two in copywriting. Train yourself in the art of writing copy. There are also some excellent tips on this website regarding becoming a copywriting expert.
I highly recommend reading some outstanding books on writing copy and understanding the copywriting industry:
The Copywriter's Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Copy That Sells. This is a book for everyone who writes or approves copy--copywriting experts, account executives, creative directors, freelance writers, advertising managers... even entrepreneurs and brand managers. It reveals dozens of copywriting techniques that can help you write ads, commercials, and direct mail that get more attention, and sell more products.
The Online Copywriter's Handbook: Everything You Need to Know to Write Electronic Copy That Sells. The Web has developed its own set of rules and attitudes for writing hard-hitting marketing copy. This book is the first practical and authoritative guide to what exactly those rules are and how they differ from writing for print audiences. From novices just taking their first copywriting steps to veterans looking to add impact and results to their online efforts, it covers everything from general fundamentals of writing effective copy to specific Web copywriting tips and traps.
The Elements of Style. A fundamental resource for writers, editors, and students. This is the best single source for anyone who desires a pithy, lively guide to the essentials of effective writing. It addresses how to apply the basic principles of grammar and punctuation, properly construct a sentence and a paragraph, use words and expressions in their proper form and context, and avoid the mistakes and mannerisms that make for turgid, pretentious, or simply unintelligible copywriting.
Ogilvy on Advertising. A candid, comprehensive, and indispensable primer on all aspects of advertising, written by David Ogilvy, the advertiser most people recognize as the all-time wizard and master of the industry.
Here is another useful copywriting link:
AK CREATIVEWORKS Former ad agency Copy Chief provides copywriting and creative concepts for ads, brochures, mailers, articles, multimedia, radio, newsletters, PR, web content and more. Everything from software to soft water. Andy, Belding, One Show national award winner. Serving Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties since 1986. Call (949) 770-8461 for a free quote.
Here are some great online directories of copywriting professionals and services: