13 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}
13 {{ upvoteCount | shortNum }}

First In-Person Job Interview for Jr Copywriter Position, Need Some Advice!

by Studio13
9 replies
On a whim I sent some samples to a job posting on craigslist.

After a successful phone interview, the next step is in-person meeting with the team in 2 weeks!

Apparently there are other writers applying for the position, and so there's a flare of competition here.

I've done freelance work -- never taken an on-staff writing job before and frankly I'm nervous.

The job is working under one of the top copywriters in the world... as a Jr on staff copywriter for an anti-aging supplement company.

She told me I'd have to provide a quick one-page email blast on spec for the interview to they could get a feel for my voice/style to see if it's a match.

I've got two weeks to prepare for this interview.

Hopefully I can find some anti-aging supplement swap files to memorize and get some advice from the vets on this forum, tips, tricks, tactics, presentation and interview advice!

Because the truth is I really want this job.
#advice #copywriter #inperson #interview #job #position
  • Profile picture of the author laurencewins
    There are lots of ways to prepare for the interview. Have you prepared a decent resume? Have you researched the company so you know as much about them as possible? Make a list of questions you want to ask them.
    I am an ex marketing manager and recruiter. If you want to pm me, I may be able to give you a few pointers.
    Signature

    Cheers, Laurence.
    Writer/Editor/Proofreader.

    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4979950].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author arfasaira
    Originally Posted by Studio13 View Post

    On a whim I sent some samples to a job posting on craigslist.

    After a successful phone interview, the next step is in-person meeting with the team in 2 weeks!

    Apparently there are other writers applying for the position, and so there's a flare of competition here.

    I've done freelance work -- never taken an on-staff writing job before and frankly I'm nervous.

    The job is working under one of the top copywriters in the world... as a Jr on staff copywriter for an anti-aging supplement company.

    She told me I'd have to provide a quick one-page email blast on spec for the interview to they could get a feel for my voice/style to see if it's a match.

    I've got two weeks to prepare for this interview.

    Hopefully I can find some anti-aging supplement swap files to memorize and get some advice from the vets on this forum, tips, tricks, tactics, presentation and interview advice!

    Because the truth is I really want this job.

    First of all, well done on getting the interview!

    Yes, I can imagine how exciting and nerve-wracking the whole thing is, but you made it this far so hopefully they love what you've done or you wouldn't be going for the interview!

    Anyway, here's something I found that may be of use to you:

    Lawrence Bernstein: “World’s Greatest Direct Response Archivist”

    He has some beauty swipe file stuff in here, I haven't looked extensively, but I'm sure you'll find something of use.

    Good luck and keep us posted, here's crossing fingers for you!

    best
    Arfa
    Signature
    "Sales Letter Conversion Rate At 19%??" Get Your Own Kick-Ass Converting Copy Here!
    Need More Clients? Click here...
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4980020].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author ryanmcgee
    Instead of bringing a quick one-page email blast on spec, bring several. Like five of them. And make sure all of them kick arse!
    Signature
    http://theryanmcgrath.com
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4980027].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Hugh Thyer
      That's a good point.

      Remember, these people are just as likely to hire you for your enthusiasm as anything else. They want someone who's ready to get in there and try his heart out.
      Signature

      Ever wondered how copywriters work with their clients? I've answered that very question in detail-> www.salescomefirst.com
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4980811].message }}
  • Profile picture of the author EricMN
    Try to find out who is interviewing you. I skipped this step when I interviewed for the last company I interviewed you, but it helps.

    Make sure you prepare for a lot of logistic questions. Things like how you handle clients and sticky situations you may get into with your supervisor. More and more, corporations are prodding at "on the spot problem" solving.

    Carry your personality with you along with your samples. Confidence is great, but individuality is better.

    If all of the above is obvious and you already knew it (and I'm sure you did) then you should be golden -- assuming your copy is also awesome (and I'm sure it is).

    Good luck!
    {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4981704].message }}
    • Profile picture of the author Alex Cohen
      1. Might be worth purchasing the e-book Ewen showed us the other day ...

      How To Get a New Job Fast - Gary Bencivenga

      According to the sales letter, the e-book teaches, "how to position yourself as the #1 candidate in an overcrowded field of applicants".

      2. If you can figure out a way to differentiate yourself... in a way that is perceived as a benefit to the company, that should help big time.

      3. Also, find out as much as you can about the "top copywriter" you'll be working for. If you get the chance to meet her, that should help you develop rapport.

      Alex
      {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4981994].message }}
      • Profile picture of the author Studio13
        Everyone's feedback is greatly appreciated.

        I've found myself practicing my writing skills over the past day or so, to really build up a cocky-like confidence in my abilities.

        Originally Posted by Alex Cohen View Post

        1. Might be worth purchasing the e-book Ewen showed us the other day ...

        How To Get a New Job Fast - Gary Bencivenga

        According to the sales letter, the e-book teaches, "how to position yourself as the #1 candidate in an overcrowded field of applicants".

        2. If you can figure out a way to differentiate yourself... in a way that is perceived as a benefit to the company, that should help big time.

        3. Also, find out as much as you can about the "top copywriter" you'll be working for. If you get the chance to meet her, that should help you develop rapport.

        Alex
        $7.98 as a price point for these two books isn't bad. I actually purchased these two books 5 minutes ago via your recommendation.

        I'll summarize any major points I that might be note worthy for you, or anyone else in the future who finds themselves in the same position I am now.
        {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4985832].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author JakeDaly
          Good luck, man! Let us know how it goes. I've been thinking about applying for a Jr. copywriting position for the last couple months, too.
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4986417].message }}
        • Profile picture of the author Alex Cohen
          Originally Posted by Studio13 View Post

          Everyone's feedback is greatly appreciated.

          I've found myself practicing my writing skills over the past day or so, to really build up a cocky-like confidence in my abilities.



          $7.98 as a price point for these two books isn't bad. I actually purchased these two books 5 minutes ago via your recommendation.

          I'll summarize any major points I that might be note worthy for you, or anyone else in the future who finds themselves in the same position I am now.
          Happy to help.

          Do you think this would make a better headline for the sales letter? :-)

          "How To Position Yourself As The #1 Candidate
          In Any Overcrowded Field Of Job Applicants!"


          Alex
          {{ DiscussionBoard.errors[4987107].message }}

Trending Topics