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Tips and tricks real writers use to open more ears and eyes to your content

I admit there are some good writers out there who have little or no professional writing experience or training. But there’s still a case for hiring pros that know how to write content or stories that can rise above all the noise. In the end, the cost is likely not much different when you measure it against real, lasting results.

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Does your story really matter? Has anyone ever even asked you? Or pushed you to think about why it’s important enough to share with the world? A real writer would. Because real writers know how to ask the tough questions to create meaningful content that can inspire your audiences to stop and read or listen.

I admit there are some good writers out there who have little or no professional writing experience or training. But there’s still a case for hiring pros that know how to write content or stories that can rise above all the noise. In the end, the cost is likely not much different when you measure it against real, lasting results.

Experienced writers know to push past their first instinct for a story (although it may be the one they come back to in the end) and look for different, unique angles that will stand up against an editor or reader’s questions. We know how to ask the tough questions, gather and check information, delve into all the angles for the story, and boil it down into a relevant, memorable, reader-focused piece.

A writer with some reporting experience is always going to seek the authoritative voice and sources for information. You can’t just say it. You have to be able to prove it.

Real writers also expect review and revisions. Our egos are wired to understand that we are only part of the process. Our expertise comes from our sources – you as well as others – and we understand you’ll have something to bring to the final product.

I really want you to consider the services of a real writer, because I think your story matters. I do of course have a stake in this as I like to think I’m a real writer but I really hope that you’ll use the tips I’m sharing to find the right writer for your job. Someone who will bring you enormous value over time – thereby giving all of us real writers a good name. Here’s some questions to consider:
  1. How will they approach the subject you’re assigning them to write about? You’re looking for some thinking about how they’ll acquire expertise on the subject – either through their own research or by talking to subject matter experts.
  2. What will they need to get started? Any writer should be asking you questions to gather your insights and details for the story as well as the results you’re looking for. If they don’t ask you any questions about your audience, send them home. Understanding who we’re trying to reach or move to action with a story or writing assignment is always job 1.
  3. What’s the process they use to get the story? You want to see that they place a lot of importance on doing the research and that they’ll check in with you (or your designate) for any questions or concerns before they start writing the story. For more in-depth assignments, you’d also like them to provide you with an outline of the story or content.
  4. How long will it take? A good writer will resist your attempts for next day turnaround for writing that should take some time to research and develop. However, most writers with any kind of experience working to deadlines, are adept at fast turnaround. In these cases, I’m transparent with clients so they know what they’re giving up for super fast turnaround.
  5. What will the first draft look like? Depending on the time that’s been allowed for the project, you should be seeing the writer’s best work, error-free and embodying any specifics you’ve asked for. Hopefully you’ll also see what the writer has brought to the table through research, expert information, great storytelling and most importantly an understanding of your message and audiences.
  6. Will they be open to doing revisions? Here’s where you can check just how much ego is in the room. I always expect and am prepared for revisions from my clients or others involved in creating the content because they have perspectives too. However, an experienced writer may respectfully challenge you on changes – which you should expect if they’ve submitted their best work.
  7. How much will it cost? Do yourself a favour and look into the rates that are posted by writer’s unions or writing organizations or guilds in your jurisdiction, understanding there’s usually room for negotiation. A better win-win can usually be achieved for a volume of work, i.e. weekly or monthly articles for eNewsletters, social media platforms, websites or publications with room to move on the budget for longer, more in-depth articles for local or national media outlets. That way the writer becomes an expert on your business and audiences and can deliver work that is accurate, original, effective and engaging on a consistent basis.
A writing pro who follows this approach for you will definitely have more success in developing unique, authoritative, accurate and relevant stories and content. And today, authority = trust. It’s what can move your audiences – customers, employees, colleagues, investors, followers and friends – to believing in what you have to offer them. This in turn can generate more leads, sales and a return on every dollar you’ve paid the writer to help achieve results.

By Leanne

Leanne is MightyWrite’s lead writer. She believes in the power of stories that focus on our humanity and how what we bring to the world and each other is what really matters.

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