How to Hire a Freelance Writer
Finding the ideal writer for a project
Where to find freelance writers:
Word of mouth
Colleagues who have used a writer may have recommendations and this is often the best way to be sure of finding a reliable freelance writer who is skilled in the kind of project being sourced.
Use Google, Craigslist and other reputable websites
In the absence of a personal recommendation, searching Google for freelance writers is a good option. It is possible to refine the search by location or skillset to ensure a better match. Most writers will have a website or blog that details their services and specialties.
Craigslist and other listing sites will have a category for hiring writers and project requirements can usually be posted for minimal or no cost. If using this method, the project owner should allow plenty of time to sift through responses and weed out unsuitable candidates.
There are also several reputable websites where project owners can post writing job requirements and have writers bid on those projects. Sites such as www.guru.com and www.elance.com allow the poster to specify criteria which reduce the number of bids to a manageable number.
How to choose between freelance writers:
Check websites and samples
Having located the details for several freelance writers, a project owner should check the writers’ websites and samples. Writing should be clear, error free and easy to read.
Ask questions
The project owner needs to narrow down the selection to maybe three or four potential writers and then call up to ask questions. Different project types require different writing skills and a writer who is skilled in PR may not be the best writer for a technical data sheet. Equally, a good technical writer may not be the best person for a newsletter feature article job. Good writers can always explain their process including outline timescales, milestones and how they work with clients.
Is this writer a solution to the problem?
The purpose of hiring a freelance writer is to create effective written materials that are better than could be written in house in the same timeframe. A conversation with the right writer for a project will leave the project owner feeling like a burden has been lifted and certain of what he or she will receive and by when. The right writer for a project will solve problems, not add to them.
Hiring a freelance writer is a cost-effective, efficient way to ensure the creation of professional and appropriate business materials. Following these 5 tips will make the selection of that writer much easier and more likely to be successful.
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