How to Choose a Writer or Writing Service
Content writing services have become more widespread in the last few years, with businesses of all sizes using the internet to gain more exposure. Whether they want to strictly market their product, provide new information about a service or objective, or simply connect further with their audience, being able to craft targeted messages is key but it can be time consuming and challenging.
That’s where writers and writing services come into play. Maybe you have a strong brand, goal, or message, but you’re not sure how to get your words onto the page where they can create the most impact. A writer can help you develop your idea and utilize specific language to communicate it effectively. But how should you go about choosing a writer? There are so many out there, after all.
When looking for a writer/writing service that best meets your needs, there are a few things that you should take into consideration. Your relationship with the service’s professional writer and how they align with your needs, the level of communication that you have with them, and the service’s business practices are three of the most important factors in determining whether they are the right fit for you.
Let’s take a look at them more in depth here.
Understanding Your Needs
Ideally, a writer will work with you to create impactful materials that reach your target audience. The first step to this is providing knowledge of your target audience and information on the background of your business and key offerings, which should be discussed during your initial consultation (by phone or in person if feasible to help develop your relationship).
While a fundamental understanding of your business is important, writing ability is also essential. Strong research skills and a good command of the English language is imperative. Look for a writer who asks questions about your business and attempts to dig a little deeper at the subject matter.
Once you have discussed your business and the type of content you’re looking for, and any key messages you’re looking to get across, your potential writer will be able to shape your ideas into precise messages, and write strong content that will help you reach your goals.
Additionally, experience in your industry is always an asset as the writer will already have a certain amount of knowledge, but keep in mind that writers who lack similar experience can also prove to be surprisingly useful as they see things from an ‘outsiders’ point of view, which can bring an entirely new spin to your subject matter.
Also keep in mind that styles of writing will differ depending on your target audience and their needs. It’s important to understand what tone your target audience responds to best (e.g. humorous, academic, technical, etc.). Opt for a writer that can create that voice for you and don’t hesitate to ask for examples of work to see how they’re able to write for different audiences and markets.
Responsive Service
Thanks to technology, it’s easier than ever to work with writers who are not located in your area. This doesn’t mean that the distance needs to create an unstable or disconnected writer-client relationship, though.
If you’re working with a writer in your area, they should be willing to meet face-to-face when needed, but no matter local or remote, your writer/writing service should be responsive and provide accurate information on what it will take to complete your project and a timeline with updates as things change.
Your writer should work to accommodate your schedule, communicate in a timely fashion, give proper estimates of project costs, and answer any questions that you may have. This helps to develop transparency, trust and reliability, and a solid working relationship overall. If your writer isn’t responding, avoiding questions, and missing deadlines, it’s time to look elsewhere.
Good Business Practices
A good professional writing service will operate with integrity and conduct its operations in a way that develops a transparent, trusting relationship with its clients based on mutual respect.
General good practices should include: a straight-forward contract, guarantee, and a fair pricing policy. They will also show a willingness to talk about your project before asking for money and clearly define the process for completing any projects before you get started, that way you know exactly what to expect from start to finish.
Above all, a good writer/writing service will want the best result for your content goals and will work with you to achieve this and ensure that you are happy. A service committed to your satisfaction will make it right when there’s something to improve on and always strive for amazing results.
Looking for a professional writing service? Contact us today! We look forward to hearing from you!