Copywriter and Content Writer: Should I Hire Both?

When building your marketing team, several positions may seem to overlap in job talent–graphic designer and web designer, web designer and web developer, copywriter and content writer. 

While it may be true that some responsibilities in these roles could be shared, all of the above roles have specific skills that set them apart. When deciding which position is most important for the writing function of your marketing department, it is essential to understand the difference between the roles of copywriter and content writer and how each fits into the goals and dynamics of your team.

Let’s dive into how a content writer and copywriter differ.

What’s the Purpose of Your Message?

Content writers and copywriters serve different purposes for your marketing team. A copywriter aims to sell, while a content writer aims to inform. Content writers shine when crafting informative, engaging, long-form pieces that offer a valuable narrative and insight to the reader. Conversely, copywriters specialize in more persuasive writing, using concise language to promote products and services.

What does a copywriter write?

Copywriting is used to sell and make the reader take action. This includes:

• Ad copy
• Email Campaigns
• Landing Page Copy
• Social Media Posts
• Product Pages

What does a content writer write?

Content writing is used to educate, inform, or entertain readers. This includes:

• Blog posts
• White Papers
• E-books
• Video Scripts
• Case Studies
• Infographics

What’s the Tone of Your Communication?

Content writers and copywriters both possess the ability to adapt their tone to suit the current purpose. Content writers often adopt a light, conversational tone to foster trust and connection and build rapport. 

Copywriters, however, usually employ a more persuasive tone, blending authority, empathy, and wit to influence their target audience. Their copy is tailored to drive conversions and motivate action.

Does a Copywriter or Content Writer Need to Know SEO?

The answer to both is YES. Any marketing writer should have a basic understanding of search engine optimization (SEO) best practices. However, a content writer should be an expert in SEO to increase organic traffic to your business website. Content writing is long-form, which provides greater rewards for SEO due to more keyword opportunities. Content writing also leverages backlinks, which are internal links that take readers to different pages on your website, keeping the reader engaged and more likely to keep your company top of mind. 

How Do Content Writers and Copywriters Work Together?

In short, a content writer will drive organic traffic to your website, and a copywriter is tasked with turning that traffic into qualified leads.

Your marketing organization would have both in an ideal world, but that isn’t always realistic. It is important to consider your current goals in deciding which role will be most beneficial at the current moment.

Do You Need a Copywriter or a Content Writer?

This all depends on your business goals. Are you at a stage where generating leads is the focus? You should probably hire a copywriter. If you are working towards creating a more engaged audience and want to establish yourself as an industry thought leader, a content writer would be most beneficial for your team. 

If it seems overwhelming to bring this in-house, or if you think you need both, maybe working with an agency is your best bet. Hire a Writer (™!) has you covered. Reach out today so we can discuss your needs.