Guest Profile:

Matthew McGarry, Senior Copywriter, FCB Chicago

Things to keep in mind for people who want to work in copywriting:

You can take a round-about path like Matthew did to get into the field, but need to have a passion for writing

There is a big difference between writing for the web vs print

A copywriter is more about the ideation and creative portion of copy. And a copy editor’s role is more to oversee what the copywriter has created to ensure it is connected to the larger strategy or brand

At times, when working for a client, your creativity can be limited by the client’s thinking

Everyone writes in their job, so there can be conflict amongst the role of the copy writer and the client as a result

You solve a ton of problems as a copywriter

Rapid Fire-Round:

What Matthew wanted to be when he was a kid: Artist

Best resource for career-related information: Other people

What helps Matthew when he has a bad day at work: Going outside

Matthew’s favorite experience from his job: Getting to use words everyday

Best part of Matthew’s work day today: Looking out over Lake Michigan from his office

Advice:

Don’t let anyone tell you “no” and that “you can’t do something”

Just because you think differently doesn’t mean you are wrong

Your boss is just another person and is not someone you should be afraid of

You don’t have that much to lose, so take risks and be honest with your thoughts and opinions

Don’t be a bullshitter and don’t bullshit

Why should someone want to be in copywriting

If you love words and love communicating things clearly, and feel journalism isn’t what it used to be, copywriting is a great opportunity for you

Get in touch with Matthew