Do you remember when all writing was in some kind of print form? I do. I also remember when the internet started changing how we consume information forever. Now, most businesses and nonprofits work in a world that combines online and print communication.
I have extensive experience writing for both online and print.
What’s the difference between online and print writing?
Print writing had one audience: the reader.
Online writing has two audiences: the reader and the search engines. And both those audiences are frequently changing how they consume information, making online communication even more complicated.
You need a writer who understands the mechanics, style, and purpose of both online and print writing. Not only that, but how to blend them to that online writing and print writing can complement each other.
Some of my more common writing projects:
Website copy
Bios
Press releases
Blogs
Advertorials
Podcast/Radio show intros
Magazine/Newspaper articles
Newsletters
Email templates with sequences
Product descriptions
Brochures
Postcards/Rackcards
Whitepapers
Lead magnets
Letters from the CEO
Is there something you need that is not on this list? Ask me! However, I usually refer people for most social media content, all book ghostwriting, and all resume writing.
My process
My writing process is essentially the same no matter the client, however there is a slight difference between individual clients and agency work.
Regardless of what style of client, I invoice all projects at the end of the month that it was completed. For example, if I complete something any time in January, it will be invoiced at the end of January or early February (it will vary slightly depending on my schedule).
Individual client process:
1. Discovery
We always start with a free discovery meeting or call. I’m happy to meet for coffee but many prefer a Zoom or phone call. We will discuss what you need, your goals, and what the end result needs to look like. It is totally normal if you do not have all the answers right away! That is part of my job, to help you make those decisions. I will also provide you with more information about me and my services if you do not have it already.
2. Information gathering
During that discovery call, we will discuss next steps. If you already have my rates and we’ve agreed upon the terms, we can move into discussing the specifics of what you want written. This can either happen during that initial call or we can schedule a second meeting, again either on the phone or in person.
3. Writing
Once I have the information I need, I will start writing. I will give you a general time of when I think it can be completed, which will include any deadlines you have. Please be clear on any deadlines or time expectations so I can determine if the project is feasible with my existing workload and schedule.
4. Review
I send a first draft to you for your review. This is when we decide if the writing is moving in the right direction, any edits, additions, etc.
5. Edits
I make any requested, reasonable edits and return it to you for further review.
6. Finalize
At this point, the project is usually complete but if another round of revisions is needed, I will repeat steps 5 and 6.
Agency client notes and process:
This is the general process and this can be adapted for you and your client’s specific situation.
1. Initiation call
This can also be an email! This is essentially the agency contacting me to inquire my availability for a project. I will need to know the basics of who the client is, what they need, and the basic timeline. We will also determine if the client is being referred to me as an individual client (i.e. the client is billed) or if this work will be done through the agency (i.e. the agency is billed). I am happy to work with either scenario, the parameters just need to be clear from the beginning. Also, if this is a website project, I can write freestyle or to a wireframe that you provide.
2. Schedule an interview with the client
It is important to note that when hired by an agency, I require that I be allowed to interview the actual client. Trying to write from someone else’s interview and notes makes it incredibly difficult to provide the best product that will meet your client’s needs. The agency is welcome to be a part of this conversation, but the more people who are involved, the harder it will be to find common availability.
3. Check in with the agency
I usually will check in with the agency via email once the client interviews are done to let them know where I am with the process and discuss any potential discrepancies between what the agency had in mind and the client.
4. Writing
I will then write the project and check back if I have questions.
5. Review
Depending on what we agree to in the beginning, I will submit the project to the client, the agency, or both for review. Some agencies prefer to review a project before getting client approval, others prefer the reverse.
6. Edits
I will make up to two rounds of reasonable edits with more possible depending on the situation.
7. Finalize
Once the project is approved, I will send it to you and the client if they ask.
A note about reasonable edits:
It is easier to define what is not a reasonable edit. That would include (but not limited to) edits such as:
– More than two rounds of edits,
– A near total or total rewrite,
– Adding a large amount of information left out during the original interview; and
– A change in scope or direction of the project.
Editing fees are based on the project.