In part 1 of the series, we looked over the general questions to ask when hiring a freelancer to write content for you. We discussed things like experience, research, format, and content type but it’s important you ask them these secondary questions to make sure they’re the right person for the job. I consider secondary questions important ONLY if you’re leaning toward hiring this “freelancer” to join your team. I believe that other than writing content, it’s important they have the passion and after publishing skills to help build traction to your blog. You’ll learn in part 2 some questions that will provide you a better understanding of how skilled this freelancer is as a complete package. For example, after they write content, it’s important they edit their work, offer revisions, or even pitch you ideas.
Let’s get started…
How is Your Grammar and Punctuation?
Bloggers need to understand the difference between writing down content and the ability for it to be absorbed. I have seen so many creative people able to write content, but when I sit down and read it, I’ll have trouble understanding the point. A creative idea is only great if it can be translated onto paper, furthermore, transferring knowledge to the reader. This is why I stress the importance of hiring someone who NOT only can write content, but also uses the correct grammar. I ask all my writers about their grammar and punctuation, trying to find out how they handle that aspect. For example, I’ll be happy with either:
First, they have correct grammar and punctuation, which can be seen after they submit their project to me, then I hand it over to my editor. If my editor comes back and tells me things are great, then that’s a plus. Next, many writers in the business have their own editors and if they get it edited before handing it in, that’s perfectly fine. Your objective should be that the finished project should be error FREE.
How Often Can You Write Content?
Depending on my schedule, I’ll know exactly how often I need content written so it’s important to ask how much time the freelancer can dedicate to my projects. For example, I’ll simply ask: How often can you submit content? Or how much time can you dedicate to writing for me? The answer will determine if they’re right for the job. If I need someone to write 8-10 posts per month, but they ONLY submit “1” then it’s better I explore my options. The last thing I want is to hire a freelancer and then run into problems when getting content written so I like to lay everything out on the table before starting. Here’s something…
Instead of asking them about their availability, you should simply tell them what you’re looking for and if they can accommodate.
What is Your Revision Policy?
When I first start working with freelancers, 10 out of 15 articles will need to be revised. I’m not saying they need to be completely rewritten, but simply need a few tweaks done so it’s important to find out about their revision policy. Many professional freelancers with years of experience will charge for additional revision because they have that much confidence in their work. For example, I once hired a freelancer who wrote an article for one of my blogs and when she submitted the work, it was perfect. The grammar and punctuation passed, however, I needed some additional content added and she sent me an invoice. I was caught off guard because I thought it was a fixed price for the writing job, but revisions cost extra. Anyway,
I’m simply saying fixed prices are usually the case but some professionals will charge extra for revisions. Protect yourself by asking!
Do You Market After Publishing?
It’s not uncommon for some freelancers to advertise their services with a marketing package. Freelancers who have approached me stated a price and include marketing as a package. Depending on your niche, you might want to consider marketing but this will depend on your current situation. Established blogs don’t need the help but if you’re a beginner, then find out more about marketing platforms specifically. Many freelancers will market on their social networks and in this case, it’s a good idea to find out about audience and relevance. Explore your options and your decision should be based on your current situation.
How Much Do You Charge?
I’m listing this last because I’ll pay extra for a quality job so if those other factors are in line, the price can be very flexible. What’s a reasonable price? The answer obviously depends on all the other factors and what you’re getting in return. A freelancer offering to write 8-10 times per month with content being 1,500+ words will attract a different price compared to someone submitting twice a month. A freelancer who’ll market your content and offer unlimited revisions will demand a different price.
When negotiating a price, consider the other factors and DON’T penny pinch because you can’t get quality content written for nothing. Be flexible and you can always adjust along the way if you feel the freelancer isn’t performing up to standards.