Hiring writers to produce content for your business is an ideal way to provide your company with the most effective marketing for your website and print media.
However, working with content writers is not always easy. Writers often work independently as freelancers so while they work for you as the client, they answer ultimately to themselves. They are their own bosses.
Additionally, writers do not have the bird’s eye view of your business that you have as the business owner. You may not want to tell them your entire marketing plan nor your future goals for your company. They also may not understand your industry or your clients as well as you do. Therefore, it is possible that the writer will not agree with your method of doing things.
Writers are in essence word artists. Good writers go beyond the skill of combining words and sentences into articles or blog posts. Instead, they are able to paint a picture with their words, change styles and tones and create a plethora of written content. One of the things to remember about artists is that what makes them creative also means that their thought processes are outside the “norm” of the general population. Artists tend to think outside the box and some of them may not even know that there is a box.
This diversity in thought when combined with differences in viewpoint can cause conflicts between a writer and their client.
To clear up any miscommunications, it is best for the client to take charge of their writing project. This act does not mean that you cannot ask for the writer’s input. Experienced writers can offer their expertise in the industry, marketing or manner of writing. However, ultimately, it is the client who must determine the best method of approaching their customers.
In order avoid misunderstandings and lost production time, provide clear-cut guidelines for your content writer upfront. While you know what results you desire, writers cannot read your mind. These tips can help you communicate better with your professional writer.
- Provide specific points that you want included in the finished content to avoid numerous revisions.
- Give the writer examples of work you like.
- Offer reference pages for information.
- Ask for the tone and style that you desire.
- Give the writer any words or phrases that you would like included.
- Include a link to your company’s website to give the writer context.
- Explain the purpose of the articles.
- Explain the target audience the article is aimed to attract.
By giving specific and complete information to the writer, they will work more effectively and reduce the back and forth negotiations. You will get better results more efficiently, and ultimately come away from the exchange more satisfied. The writer will be able to take your parameters and apply their word artistry, supplying you with the excellent content that you require and painting the picture that will generate new business.
Paula A is a freelance writer who works with a cup of coffee at her side to keep herself fueled. When she is not writing, editing or drinking coffee, she is chauffeuring her family to activities, making jewelry, trying recipes or making a quick run for a hazelnut latte.
