How to get the best out of your freelance writers

So, you’ve finally hired a freelance writer to tell the world about your amazing products. Finally, you can just kick back, relax and watch as your writer churns out the masterpiece that will surely drive your sales through the roof.

It’s a shared fantasy amongst startups and even large companies when they’re looking for writers, but the reality is far less appealing. A poorly written piece of content will do you more harm than good.

To prevent this, accurate and detailed communications need to be established with your writer. Here’s what you need to take note when creating the work of your dreams.

Writers … write

Photo credit: Ak~i

The first thing you need to understand is that writers write. They may sometimes be marketers or content distribution strategists or designers, but often times they are not your all-in-one solution. These various roles play a big part in your marketing campaign, and they require very specific skill sets to be effective.

Even if they say they can double up and take up another role, it’s best to check out their portfolios or work with a trusted writer.

Share your story

Photo credit: Jim Pennucci

A novice mistake in sales is focusing too much on the features of a product. While that is important, what really seals the deal is if your customers are emotionally invested in the brand. In other words, you need to tell a story.

Talk about why you started the company, what your hopes and dreams are for it, and what good you’ve done for the world. It’s important because it’s what people truly want. People don’t just buy vitamins to stay healthy, they want to live long lives, and fulfill their dreams and that of their children! And that’s a way more interesting story than how you use 12 percent real fruit juice.

Be clear about your objective

You have to develop a piece of content with an end in mind.

Are you looking for more sales leads? More people to sign up for your newsletter? Or perhaps you simply want to get yourself out there and tell everyone about your brand.

Clearly define your target audience

Ask yourself the most important question

Refrain from telling them, “I could have done that.”

Communicate

Prepare an informative brief