How to Become a Jingle Writer

Decided that Charlie on 'Two and a Half Men' has your dream job? If you want to be a jingle writer, this article will show you how. If you want to be a ladies' man, I'm not even sure if I should tell you to wear bowling shirts. That's Charlie Sheen's thing. But if you want to become the owner of a jingle writing business, focus less on that suave and more on jingle production. Working hard leads to playing hard and success in this business can be just as glamorous as it seems. Here's how to become a jingle writer--from starting your business to sustaining it--with ways that even someone with no experience can use.

1. Assess your skills and your critical thinking ability. Choose three jingles that you know and love analyze why--or why it isn't or hasn't--succeeded.
2. Create a website or blog with a bio, picture (if you desire), contact information and three samples of your ability to write jingles. Consider uploading audio or video on your website/blog or a content site and lining to them. Also include any relevant education and previous publication credits.
3. Offer your jingle writing services to a nonprofit organization you admire at no cost to build your portfolio.
4. Enter contest for jingle writing and copywriting.
5. Answer job ads/gig as you find in print and online.
6. Write articles for publication about jingle writing to enhance your credibility as a jingle writer.

• Always do you best work. It will lead to repeat and referral business.
• Gather both clips for your portfolio and tips for your website.
• Learn as much as you can about jingle production--try to find a current or retired jingle writer that is willing to mentor you.