Why Do I Need a Content Writer?
No, this isn’t one of the four questions. But you need a content writer — or even better, a content-writing agency like Ray Access — if you don’t have an in-house writer. Every business owner today needs copy to remain competitive.
Without an active website, customers can’t find you. An active website that ranks well with search engines relies on high-quality content to:
- Keep your website updated
- Produce blog posts for the site and your social media platforms
- Create press releases when needed
- Develop newsletters to send to your customers and potential customers to keep you top-of-mind
- Pen a downloadable book to entice website visitors to give you their email addresses
What 4 Questions Should I Ask a Potential Content Writer?
Whether you hire a staff writer or rely on contract experts like those at Ray Access, you can vet an online content writer with a series of four questions. These questions help you hire the right writers and trust them to do the job effectively and efficiently. So before you hire, ask:
- Have you written for my industry before? A great content writer doesn’t need to have experience writing in your industry. They know how to research and ask questions that your potential clients may ask. But still ask for samples. Be prepared to explain your target audience, so the writer can tailor the language to them. Before your project begins, make sure your content writer knows your competitive advantage and customer base well. Point out websites you appreciate, not to copy, but to give the writer an idea of the tone you want to emulate.
- How can you write in my voice? Hire copywriting experts who understand what your content is supposed to do. For example, is it primarily intended to inform current customers or convert visitors? The content Ray Access delivers is targeted for your business to your customers and potential customers; it’s not about you. It’s written in such a way as to increase engagement, no matter what the topic. The most effective website copy focuses not on what your business does, but rather what it can do for a customer: what problem you solve or need you fill.
- Do you have a revision process? You want to know that a revision is possible when you need it and that it’s covered in your original price. Why should you have to pay for something you can’t use? When you need changes, content agencies like Ray Access have a revision process in place: one free revision on anything you get, as long as you provide feedback. When you hire a staff writer, you’re stuck with that person unless you go through the hiring process all over again.
- How do I know I’ll get something I can actually use? Take steps to increase the chance of getting the kind of content you’re looking for by:
- Researching the copywriter to make sure they are who they say they are, and they’ve done this type of work before
- Communicating clearly and often to make sure the writers have what they need and there’s progress on your project
- Relying on your web developer, marketing company or SEO expert to hire the best content writer for your needs
If you need copy for your website, blog or newsletter, find the best content writers. And if you do take on the challenge of creating your own copy, at least call Ray Access to give it a second set of eyes and superb editing.
Ray Access is a content marketing firm that delivers targeted words to empower your business. Contact us about your specific project to receive a quote or discuss your needs. We write website copy, blog posts, e-newsletters and more. Everything we do is thoroughly researched, professionally edited and guaranteed original.