How to Hire a Freelance Writer

So, you’ve got an important project coming up and you need some back up. You’ve weighed your options, and you’ve decided that you’re ready to hire a freelance writer.

Now what?

Decide What You Want

First things first. Figure out exactly what you’ll need from the writer. Will you have specific template or format and tone requirements, or will you also need the writer to help develop the idea? Do you need help with writing articles and content for your website, a series of brochures or business letters, or maybe even an upcoming speech you have to give? If you need content, help with blogging or standard articles, do you plan to print a byline or are you looking for a ghostwriter? Do you need social networking help? Determine exactly what you want your freelance writer to do and how you’d like it done.

Do the Research

Once you’ve figured out the specifics of the project, it’s time to find a freelancer. You can begin by talking to those within your own network. If you don’t personally know a freelancer, maybe someone can recommend one.

You can also post jobs stating your specific needs, and ideally, the budget for the project (at least the amount you’d like to pay the writer.) Many freelance writers keep an eye on Craigslist and job posting forums and blogs.

Alternatively, you can Google your needs. Most freelance writers have their own websites (like this one) where they blog about and advertise their services. There, you can learn a lot about writers and their services. For example, at the top of this page, you’ll see tabs that will take you to various pages: one to introduce you to the author and one for a brief overview of  her services, one for her blog and another for a detailed listing of her services and one that provide links to samples of her work. Other tabs lead to pages that provide testimonials from clients and colleagues and a way to get in touch with the writer.

Compile a short list of professional writers who are willing to be flexible and who will provide you with the results you need. Hiring a writer you don’t know may seem risky, but there are some important things you can do to ensure that you make the right choice.

Quality Check and Decision Time

Check out some samples of each writer’s work. Use links on author websites or simply ask writers to email you some relevant samples. Look closely at the samples. Ask yourself some questions:

• Does the writer’s work read smoothly or does it seem awkward?
• Try reading some of each writer’s work out loud. Do the words sound natural?
• Is the material informative and does it effectively cover the topic as intended?
• Do you like the writer’s tone and style? Is it versatile enough?
• Do you notice a lot of punctuation blunders, spelling mistakes or grammatical errors?
• Does the writer’s work seem high-quality enough to represent you or your company?

Based on your assessment of their writing and your interaction with each writer thus far, choose the one(s) with whom you feel most comfortable.

Talk Money

Once you’ve decided on a writer, it’s time to discuss payment. Share the general details of your project and ask for a quote. If you have a set budget in mind, be sure present it at this time. Together, you and the writer will come to an agreement on the terms of the contract. Be sure to decide up front how and when payment will take place.

• Does the writer require an upfront deposit? Are payments needed at various points in the project, or can you expect to pay in full at completion?
• Will payment(s) be sent via check, money order or Paypal? Does the writer accept credit cards?

Discuss Details

Once your writer has been hired and you’ve set rates, you’ll want to get the specifics of the project set in stone.

• Set deadlines. Tell the writer when you need the work completed.
• Talk format, style and tone. Are you looking for a series of strictly formatted informational content articles or dynamic ad copy? Do you need a persuasive business letter or an inspirational pamphlet? Let the writer know, in no uncertain terms, exactly what you want and need.
• Decide how the work will be delivered. Will the writer email the work, or will it be sent by snail mail or UPS? Hand delivered? Do you want it piece by piece or as one finished project?

Sign On the Dotted Line

Now that the details have been worked out, write up a contract that reflects them. Both parties should agree to the terms and sign the contract, either physically or electronically.

Don’t Keep It to Yourself

Be sure to communicate with your writer. You should feel comfortable with asking for updates and sharing new information as your project develops.  If you think revisions are in order or if project details change, don’t be afraid to make your needs known. Remember that freelance writers are very concerned with your satisfaction and will do whatever it takes to make sure you get what you want.

Maintain the Relationship

Once the project has been completed to your satisfaction, pay the writer as agreed in your contract and keep her contact information if you enjoyed working with her. Rehiring a writer who has previously exceeded your expectations will save your valuable time and leave you free to deal with other more important issues in your day.

Are you ready to hire a freelance writer? Contact Angela Atkinson here or via direct email at angela@angelaatkinson.com today to discuss the details of your project and to get a quote.