In my copywriting class this week my professor showed us a job listing for an entry-level copywriter position. She said it was in the marketing department of a major company headquartered in Des Moines that works with other major companies across the US. I'm thinking it was probably Meredith Corporation, but that's just me.
She was showing off what they were looking for in a job applicant. Most was typical job stuff; 1-2 years of experience, customer service skills, written communication skills (duh), strong proof-reading skills, knowledge of pc programs including quark express. You know, normal stuff.
But quality creative work wasn't mentioned anywhere.
I found that interesting and, while this is not a critique of the class, it made me wonder why she chose to show this job listing. Most listings I have seen from agencies stress the importance of creative work, most creatives will even tell you it's all about the work. I think the problem was where the job listing was coming from.
If you want to work in a major corporation by all means fulfill the requirements on the first list. But if you want to work in the creative field look for a job that emphasizes your work. If they don't ask to see your book then I might suggest looking somewhere else.