Hiring a Freelance Copywriter for your Business?
Here’s what you need to know.

Freelance copywriters are hired to create enticing text on advertisement, brochures, websites, catalogues and more. As a company you want to make sure you hire the best freelance copywriter for your business in the quickest most cost-effective manner. So, before you embark on your search for the right candidate it is important to learn the ins-and-outs of the industry. We have gone ahead and researched everything. You may not know where to start but we have answers to all your questions and will get you thinking about what to take into consideration before you hire. With this knowledge you will be well prepared to find and hire the best freelance copywriter for your business and be able to choose the right one. See examples of Freelance Copywriter profiles here.

Who is Freelance Copywriter?

A freelance copywriter is anyone who writes text for the purpose of advertising. Copywriters are responsible for the text on brochures, billboards, websites, advertisement, catalogs and more. The content that a freelance copywriter creates is written to curate brand awareness with the ultimate goal of increasing sales. Freelance copywriters are self-employed and are hired by companies that do not have the budget or need for a full-time copywriter, so they outsource their copywriting needs. There are many advantages of Outsourcing and the decision to outsource is often considered a strategic move. Read more about the Advantages of Outsourcing.

What is a freelance copywriter?

A freelance copywriter is an independent contractor who works for various companies on a project by project basis. Freelance copywriters create marketing and advertising content for the purpose of persuading a particular action such as a sale. Freelance copywriters do not have the same benefits as full time employees (ex: example, health, vacation pay and more). However, they do have the flexibility to work when they want and on projects that they so choose to. Freelance copywriters tend to work from home, at a co-working space or from a coffee shop.

What does a freelance copywriter do?

Freelance copywriters work as independent professionals on a project by project basis for companies on an as needed basis. They write copy for advertising purposes rather than informational purposes. A copywriter writes with the goal in mind of persuading their readers for a particular outcome. Copywriters must understand their audience and be strategic when writing.

-Anita, Freelance Copywriter in Montreal, Quebec. Click here to see her profile

“A good copywriter stands out from the competition when they can adapt their writing style to any given brand’s voice to convey their message with authority and expertise. Being able to do so means they can make a strong connection with the target audience and have an impact on their decision-making.”

What does a freelance copywriter charge?

Freelance copywriters charge an hourly rate that can range anywhere from $20 for a newbie or overseas writer to $200+ for an experienced professional. The rate depends on the following 4 factors: Location (big city copywriters charge more), demand (if they aren’t busy they may be a little more flexible on their rate), turnaround time (a rush fee will be charge if you require a quick turnaround) and client status (non-profits and start-ups will receive discounts while large corporations will be charged a higher rate).

Freelance copywriters can provide a project fee but when they give you this fee, they are calculating their fixed costs, an estimate of hours for providing multiple versions of copy, editing and meeting times, etc. plus a buffer for unexpected events. When it comes to copywriting, it is less common to charge by the word. Each word in copywriting is chosen carefully and takes time so there is little incentive to work on a word by word fee and the results would be less than optimal. Learn more about Best Practices to negotiate a freelance rate.

How to find a freelance copywriter?

Before hiring a freelance copywriter make a list of your copywriting needs. Have a clear idea of what type of content you need and for what kind of campaign. Once you understand what you need, decide on the skill level required to complete the projects and the deadline for delivering. Do you need a freelancer on an as needed on going basis or is this need a one-off gig? Once you know what you are looking for there are 3 ways to find that perfect freelance copywriter:

1. Post your need on social media and ask your friends. It is always assuring to get a personal referral from a friend you trust.
2. Check in house. Do you have any aspiring, experienced copywriters in-house on your team?
3. Post your job on a freelance marketplace website. Use caution and read the fine print when engaging the services of a website. Often, they appear free but are charging a percentage of the project fees which can get rather pricey. Think about working with a local freelance copywriter in your own city. It can be a great benefit to meet face to face and take the time for them to understand your brand.

Now that you know everything about freelance copywriting go ahead and find the best freelance copywriter for your business! Be sure to know How to Onboard your top freelancer with Success. And if you hire more than one freelance writer, learn how to effectively manage a team of freelance content writers.

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