What is a copywriter and why should I employ one?
A copywriter is someone who writes for other people for a living, although we also edit and proof materials. There are several reasons why you might choose to employ someone like me but they generally come down to money, time and a job well done.
Time and money – if you’re not tearing your hair out over your copy you can spend time on your actual job. A professional writer will produce material far quicker – and more efficiently – than an inexperienced staff member.
Also, strong writing yields results in terms of webpages visited, brochures read, newsletter and social media click-thrus etc, which in turn result in positive outcomes for your business. Win, win!
Sound professional – ok, you are a professional outfit but you also need to sound like one. Employ an experienced writer to smarten up your image and ensure that your website, print and social media present a consistent, trustworthy front.
A new perspective – a fresh pair of eyes will help you identify and communicate what is really special about your company.
Trust – it’s an oft quoted paper but the 2011 study by Professor William H Dutton of the Oxford Internet Institute at the University of Oxford suggested that poor grammar and spelling online “raise concerns over trust and credibility”. Give your potential customers/visitors less reason to ignore your message.
I’m not sure what I want or what you would need from me
No problem. I would start by having a chat with you about your situation, what you want to achieve from anything I write for you, how you want to present yourself, and listen to any ideas you have. I’d add my own thoughts as well. From that initial chat we would agree on an approach, schedule and price, and identify the information that I need from you.
If you have an old website or a half-written brochure then that’s fine as well – I can revamp, tweak or proofread existing materials to ensure they are accurate and reflect your house style and message.
Do you work with other professionals?
Yes, I work with print and digital designers, printers, illustrators and photographers who can help bring your project to life. If you have existing suppliers I’m happy to liaise with them as well.
How much do you charge?
It depends on the project. A quick proofing job will take less of my time than a similarly short piece that requires research, and a longer job will work out cheaper per day than a very short project. I’m happy to quote you a price for the job and provide you with a contract specifying numbers of proofs/rewrites etc. Alternatively, I can keep track of my time and charge you at the end – several of my clients prefer working this way.
Who owns the work you produce?
Generally, the copyright on the work belongs to me until my invoice is paid.
Can I see samples of your work?
Absolutely, let me know what sort of material you are interested in and I can send you or direct you to examples.
Are you a member of a guild or copywriters’ society?
No. I have considered it but feedback from clients said that they would rather see samples of work and testimonials from happy clients than a membership.
If you have any other questions, please contact me.
Karen makes the barely possible seem easy by being extremely well organised. She combines creativity with an unfailing attention to detail, while making sure that deadlines are always met.
Tracey McGeagh, Chartered marketer