Thinking about hiring a web copywriter? Some tips that might grease communications and make your writer-client relationship a valuable one:
1. Know what you want.
Make sure you have all the details of your copy project squared away and ready to go. Most professional copywriters write a “kill” fee into their job terms, as well as a fee for changing “the nature of a project.” Sound unreasonable?
I carve out a specific term of time (read: “money”) reserved for YOUR PROJECT. Pull it suddenly and you’ve stranded me without work. When this happens I suddenly have to scramble to make up the lost income and/or juggle another client’s schedule. Take the time to develop your ideas and the project will run smoothly.
2. Choose a copywriter that you can actually talk to.
None of this “I’ve hired a copywriter, but he or she farms the work out to some subordinate copy hack somewhere….” it’s pretty standard to include an initial consultation. Just make sure you get to communicate with the writer crafting your copy, not some outsourcing go-between.
I invite all my prospective clients to a phone conversation before I send a Rate Sheet or develop a project proposal. This initial communication helps me understand your project; I can make sure I “get” your goal, can meet your expectations, and understand your business needs. Subsequent communications I usually handle by email or IM.
3. Get the copywriter’s terms…in writing.
You may have explained your expectations. A professional web copywriter has expectations and terms of work as well. Make sure you ask to have them explained.
When I develop a project proposal I also include an estimate of time to delivery for a completed draft. I clarify the revision and approval process, as well as how I accept payment for services and when.
5. Look for a copywriter with a passion for their craft.
Most professionals who really succeed in their careers love what they do. There are grease monkeys then there are master automotive mechanics–that’s the guy or gal with grease up to the elbows and a friendly smile. He talks about cars when he’s not at work; she has a classic Firebird she’s remodeling in her workshop at home; he’ll stop by the side of the road to help someone who’s broken down–passion for the mechanics of the work. If your business matters then you can see why you’d look for passion in a copywriter. This is someone who’s up under your business hood, so to speak.
6. Hold out for a copywriter who’s polite and professional and able to bring insight to the table.
In an age of Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and email it’s easy to lose the humanity in the internet business. Communication is a key to business success. This is why I almost always require an initial telephone consultation (it’s free) for new clients.
Let me help sharpen your online presence with web copy and content services that distinguish you in your market and among competitors.
–Jennifer Rotman, Web Copywriter
contact me for a rate sheet or to discuss your copy needs:
rotman.jennifer at gmail.com
