Flap Copy
Flap copy, also known as jacket copy, is the descriptive text that appears on the inside flaps of a hardcover book's dust jacket or the back cover of a paperback. It's a crucial marketing tool that helps sell books by providing a compelling summary of the book's content, author information, and promotional quotes. Think of it as the book's "elevator pitch" that helps readers decide whether to purchase the book. Publishing professionals often refer to this as "jacket copy" or "cover copy" as well.
Examples in Resumes
Wrote and edited Flap Copy for over 50 bestselling titles
Developed compelling Jacket Copy that increased sales by 25%
Collaborated with marketing team to create engaging Cover Copy for fiction titles
Typical job title: "Copywriters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Copywriters
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach writing flap copy for different genres of books?
Expected Answer: A senior copywriter should discuss how they adapt their writing style for different audiences, mention experience with multiple genres, and explain how they balance giving enough information while maintaining intrigue.
Q: Tell me about a time when your flap copy significantly improved a book's sales.
Expected Answer: Should provide specific examples of successful campaigns, demonstrate understanding of marketing metrics, and explain their strategic approach to writing compelling copy.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What elements do you consider essential in effective flap copy?
Expected Answer: Should discuss hook writing, book summary techniques, author bio integration, and understanding of target audience needs.
Q: How do you work with authors and editors to create compelling flap copy?
Expected Answer: Should explain their collaborative process, how they incorporate feedback, and maintain the author's voice while creating marketable copy.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between flap copy and a book summary?
Expected Answer: Should explain that flap copy is marketing-focused and designed to sell, while a summary simply informs about content, and demonstrate basic understanding of marketing writing.
Q: How do you research similar books to write effective flap copy?
Expected Answer: Should discuss methods of market research, analyzing competitor books, and understanding current trends in book marketing.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic copywriting and editing
- Understanding of book marketing principles
- Ability to write clear book summaries
- Knowledge of different book genres
Mid (2-5 years)
- Strong marketing copywriting skills
- Experience with multiple book genres
- Collaboration with authors and editors
- Understanding of market trends
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced marketing strategy
- Leadership in copy development
- Sales-driven writing expertise
- Project management skills
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to write compelling marketing copy
- Lack of knowledge about book publishing industry
- Poor understanding of different book genres
- No experience with marketing writing
Related Terms
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