So, you've been tasked with hiring a freelance writer to meet your content needs. You find them plenty of them online: A single LinkedIn post will draw them out like moths to the flame.
But with so many on the hook, which qualities should you be screening for? The good news is I'm here to help. Let's get started.
1. Exceptional Writing Skills
First and foremost, can they actually write? Look for a writer who can craft engaging, error-free content with a clear and coherent structure. What is their command of grammar, vocabulary, and style? A skilled freelance writer will be able to adapt their writing to your brand voice and target audience.
2. Relevant Industry Knowledge
When you hire for any other role, their past experience weighs heavily. This is no different. Working with a writer who has some degree of familiarity with your industry can be a game-changer. Look for those who have experience or knowledge in your specific niche. This can save time on research and result in more authentic and insightful content that resonates with your audience.
3. Proven Track Record
Ask for references from past clients. Are they easy to work with? What results have they procured for others? A writer with a portfolio demonstrating versatility, quality, and consistency is more likely to deliver the results you're looking for.
4. Reliability and Communication
Freelance writers must be reliable and communicate effectively. You need to work with someone who is responsive to emails and messages and can meet deadlines consistently. If not, you're inviting frustration.
5. Research Skills
High-quality content is a lot more than just stringing words together in a pretty way. A freelance writer with strong research skills can provide well-informed and accurate articles. Assess their ability to gather information from credible sources and synthesize it into compelling, fact-based narratives.
6. SEO Knowledge
If you want people to be able to find your content, working with someone who understands search engine optimization (SEO) is vital. A freelance writer who incorporates SEO best practices into their writing can help get more eyeballs on the content. Look for writers who are familiar with keyword research, meta tags, and other SEO strategies.
7. Adaptability and Openness to Feedback
Content is sometimes an iterative process, and revisions may be necessary. A good freelance writer is adaptable and open to constructive feedback. Find someone who is willing to collaborate and make adjustments to ensure the final product aligns with your vision.
Conclusion: You Can Find the Right Writer
Finding the perfect freelance writer requires a careful investigation into various factors, which can be more fully revealed in the interview process. By prioritizing exceptional writing skills, relevant knowledge, a proven track record, reliability, effective communication, research abilities, SEO knowledge, and adaptability, you'll be more likely to select the right wordsmith for you.