How to hire and work with freelance writers

To take my mind off the this pandemic, I thought I’d write about what I’ve learnt from working in the freelance world for just under three months.

In particular, if you want to hire a freelancer, here is how you should do it to get the result that you want.

1.    Be specific.

Are you looking for them to write case studies, thought leadership pieces or feature articles? Do you want them to conduct interviews, record and edit audio or write video scripts? Do you have documents they can use for research? What do you mean by the word ‘story’? Are there any examples of content they can take inspiration from? What tone and voice do you want the final pieces to have?

Having at least general answers to most of these questions will help the freelance writer better understand what you want and therefore devise a better strategy of how they will give it to you.

2.    Get documentation.

Once you and the freelancer are clear about what you want and how it will be delivered, put it in writing. If the freelancer has something to refer to, it can stop them from going off track when creating the content for you. Furthermore, it is good for both parties to know exactly what the deadlines, payment terms and fees are. This can help to avoid possible disputes later down the line.

3.    Be professional.

This might sound strange but it is a business meeting so be professional when you first meet with a freelancer. That is not to say you must be super formal. The meeting could be at your Airbnb rental, a local café or a booth at a co-working space. You could be wearing jeans and a T-shirt or a three-piece suit. But as you would at any other business meeting, put some shoes on. When toes are out, the professional vibe goes out the window.

So, state exactly what you want and how you want it, get it in writing and keep your shoes on. The rest should be plain sailing – pandemic permitting.

And if you’re looking for a professional writer who can do everything in point two, keeps her footwear on her feet and knows a fair bit about data, analytics and tech, let me know. Because that’s me.

P.S. I am available on a freelance, temporary or salaried basis.

P.P.S. Stay home. Wash you hands. Be kind. Fund the NHS. Key workers are heroes.