Copywriters in direct marketing are called direct response copywriters. But freelance copywriters today can learn the craft from copywriting courses or mentors. Some copywriters work as independent contractors or freelancers, writing for a variety of clients. There are large numbers of freelance copywriters that have repositioned themselves as brand language experts. Often individuals in non-lead positions also contribute, such as copywriters and other programmers and artists. Copywriters are similar to technical writers and the careers may overlap. These are copywriters who went on to found major multinational advertising agencies. Many creative artists spent time early in their careers working as copywriters. Many creative artists worked as copywriters before becoming famous in other fields. His parents both worked as advertising copywriters at the J. Walter Thompson Agency. He had a strong influence on the advertising industry and the next generation of copywriters. Hopkins insisted copywriters research their clients' products and produce "reason-why" copy. In 1996, he was among the first copywriters at Grey Advertising's online division. Her advertisements are included in America's "100 Best Copywriters," "100 Best Advertisements," and other awards. Copywriters write the words, also known as copy, for direct mail.