Are you thinking about working with a freelance copywriter but unsure how to get the best from them?
When you ask someone to write about your business you want to make sure they do a good job. But the ball isn’t entirely in the copywriter’s court. As a client, you have a significant role to play in helping them achieve the best results.
So how can you get the best from your freelance copywriter?
Here are six tips to help the process go smoothly:
Do your homework
Make sure the freelance copywriter you hire understands you, your business and the message you want to get across. I offer my clients a free 15-minute discovery call (an introductory meeting via phone or Zoom) so we can talk about the project and what’s required, get to know each other and find out if we’re a good fit.
Provide a clear brief
Tell your freelance copywriter what you need from them from the outset and have realistic expectations, deadlines and boundaries in place to ensure the process goes seamlessly on both sides.
I ask my clients to fill in a comprehensive questionnaire so that I can get to grips with your requirements, business, customers and competitors from the off.
Information I ask for includes:
The scope of your writing project
The tone of voice the copy should be written in
Any content that should be included
Your overall business and marketing goals
Your timescale or deadline
The quality of the information you provide is more important than how it’s written so don’t worry about perfect spelling or grammar – that’s my job! A brain dump or bullet points will do the trick.
Once I’ve reviewed the details provided, we have a follow-up phone or video call where I iron out any queries and you can ask questions before I start writing. If I need more information later in the project I’ll let you know.
Be thorough
When your copywriter asks for information about you and your business, whether it’s in a phone call, in person, in an email or a questionnaire, make sure you provide as much detail as possible so they have everything they need to know to get the job done well.
I’m good at drawing information out of people but I’m not a mind reader so the more detail you provide the better.
Keep in touch
Communication makes a huge difference. You can help your copywriter by answering queries and providing feedback as quickly as possible, being on time for meetings, respecting their boundaries and letting them know about commitments that may affect your project’s timescale.
Your copywriter is a skilled professional so don’t be tempted to micromanage your project – let them work their magic without looking over their shoulder.
Give honest feedback
A freelance copywriter will aim to provide you with perfect copy first time but you may want a few tweaks before you’re 100 per cent happy. Be specific and constructive with your feedback and allow them to edit the text as needed. Try to do all revisions in one round to reduce the need for further changes.
I include two rounds of revisions in my copywriting projects which gives ample opportunity for feedback and editing. An extra pair of eyes is always useful, so make sure you thoroughly check your copywriter’s final draft before you sign it off.
Be nice
Your freelance copywriter will work hard to complete your project on time, to your satisfaction and objectives.
In return, pay them promptly when the project is done. Freelancers rely on clients paying swiftly to keep their heads above water.
Your copywriter is on your side, so treat them well and you’ll both benefit. Provide a testimonial, review or recommendation to help spread the word about the good work they have done.
Over to you
Contact me if you have any more questions about working with a freelance copywriter.
Let’s work together
If you think I might be the right copywriter for your writing project, get in touch to arrange your free 15-minute discovery call.
Prefer to write your own copy? Get support with my Copy Coaching Calls.
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