Guidelines for Working with a Professional Copywriter

Professional copywriting services can be a very vital asset for any business. A good copywriter has the capacity to create great copy which will boost the sales of your products and services. Once you have identified such an individual, you need to handle them well so as to build a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship. Here are some guidelines for dealing with a professional copywriter.


Guidelines for Working with a Professional Copywriter

1. Be Clear on What You Want

Before getting in touch with the copywriter, you need to figure out what exactly you want to be done. In addition, you need to set your deadlines as well as budget. In case you need some help in clarifying your goals, the copywriter might be willing to offer some advice. In some cases, you may be required to pay a separate fee for such consultancy services.

2. Agree on Fees From the Onset

It is very important to discuss and agree on fees before the project commences. Avoiding the issue of money might only end up creating conflict later and wasting valuable time. Once you have made it clear what exactly you need to be done, ask the copywriter to quote their estimated fees for the work involved.

3. Offer Background Material

Make sure your copywriter has all the raw data they need to do their work. Such information could be contained in your order forms, memos, brochures, catalogs, letters or ads. This also applies when you are developing new products or services. Surveys, reports, marketing plans, emails and manuals can provide information which could be useful. Collect all this information and submit it to your copywriter.

4. Have Everything in Writing

When it comes to business, putting things in writing is very important. Have a written agreement with your copywriter which clearly mentions the scope of the project, deadlines and fees among other details. This agreement will help you avoid potential conflicts in future which might jeopardize your relationship.

5. Don’t Interfere

Once all the requirements are clear and the contract has been signed, get out of the way. Give your copywriter the freedom to express themselves in the best way they know how. Resist the temptation of offering unsolicited advice. Continued interference will cause the copywriter to get discouraged and unable to focus. As a result, you might end up getting a final copy which is below par.

6. Give Specific Feedback

When giving feedback, don’t be vague. For instance, don’t just say that the copy needs ‘more punch’. Punch might mean one thing to you and another to someone else. If you are not satisfied with any part of the copy, mention it specifically and tell the copywriter how to correct it. On the other hand, if you are happy with the copy, say it. This will encourage the copywriter and encourage them to write better in future.

7. Pay Promptly

Don’t be one of the people who pay their copywriters late, or even fail to pay them at all. If you have promised to pay a certain amount by a specific time, honor your word. Paying on time will enhance your credibility and build trust with your writers. Building good relationships will allow you to continue working with the best copywriters for the long haul.

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