The need for writers crosses all industries. As companies look to establish their online presence, write top-notch press releases, or create blog posts, writers are often wanted to produce content to take brands to the next level.
Since it might be unnecessary to have a full-time, salaried writer on staff, that’s where hiring freelance writers online comes in.
If your company is ready to retain the services of a writer, here are some tips on how to hire freelance writers online:
Assess your needs.
Look to see how much work is needed and over how long a time period. That can help you determine if you should hire a freelancer for short stints or hire one that will be a permanent freelancer, churning out copy for your company on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.
Ask around.
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Like any other job opening you’re trying to fill, asking colleagues, friends, and other people in your industry about freelance writers can give you quality leads. That way, you shouldn’t have to worry that your freelancer might be a flake and miss important deadlines.
Go where the writers are.
There are a ton of freelance writers looking for online jobs. They’re often sourcing for gigs in niche job search boards like FlexJobs, or they might be affiliated with an agency, such as Outsource or Creative Circle. Depending on the type of writing you need, you should identify what the agency is known for (business blogging or grant writing, for example), and search for potential hires from that list.
Be aware of bylines.
Let’s say that you read an amazing piece online and the writer’s voice really resonated with you. Get into the habit of checking out writers’ bylines (typically at the top or bottom of each story) and read their bio. Then do a search online to see what other media outlets they might be working with—this can give you an idea of what their rate might be. After all, an in-demand writer will be pricier than a scribe working in a content mill for pennies per word.
Look to LinkedIn.
Searching on LinkedIn can give you a leg up when it comes to finding freelancers. Not only might you find writers who are already in your network (and therefore, presumably, more reliable), but you can also ask contacts you have in common for recommendations and insight. That way, your freelance writer can help write your company’s next chapter of success.
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