Saturday, November 22, 2008

Three Things to Look for in a Quality Freelance Writer

The saying “caveat emptor (let the buyer beware)” is never more important to heed than when purchasing freelance writing. Anyone can claim they are capable to write content for you, but it can be very difficult to assess how effectively they will be able to accomplish the task.

Following are three things to look for when choosing a freelance writer to ensure you will get what you pay for.

Spelling and Grammar

Make sure that all writing samples and portfolio items are near perfect when it comes to the writer’s command of the English language. Even the best writer’s will make errors from time to time, but if they intend to supply you with writing that is grammatically correct and exhibits proper spelling, they should be advertising the “best of the best” examples of their work. If you find glaring errors in the content they are using as an example to sell their services, chances are the work produced for you would be even worse. A professional writer knows that they should put the writing they are most proud of as their samples for prospective clients, so if it isn’t stellar when it comes to grammar, spelling, and punctuation, then they probably don’t even realize they have made mistakes. This means they don’t have the adequate knowledge and skills necessary to make the writing they might do for you top notch.

Content Flow

When you read the freelance writers example work, think about how well the words, phrases, sentences, and paragraphs flow. If you find yourself stumbling over a section, chances are that others will too. The last thing you want is for your audience to not even finish reading the content because they get frustrated trying to read and re-read the ideas presented. Successful writing means that the reader will stick with it from beginning to end effortlessly. Try actually reading the sample writing aloud. This will better show you what your readers will hear inside their own head if you choose to use that particular writing professional.

Creativity

Pay particular attention to how creative the writer is in approaching a particular topic. Just because the topic they are writing about is dry does not meaning the writing itself has to be dull. The best freelance writers can take the most boring topic and still make the information they portray attractive. Your readers will be much more likely to respond positively to your content if they are actually interested in the way the topic is presented. By keeping a readers attention, you ensure that they will continue reading and therefore actually accept the message you wish to portray. Communication through writing is only effective if it is actually received by the audience! Creativity is also an important trait in the best professional writers because it means they will quickly be able to take any topic you throw at them and convert it into unique and enticing work that is sure to achieve the desired effect.

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