Thursday, February 26, 2015

Episode 2 - Do you really need to hire a copywriter?


Hello everyone and welcome to episode 2 of the Strong Words Podcast.

Today’s topic: Do you really need to hire a copywriter?

Copywriters hear it all the time, “Why should I hire someone to write my copy? I’m a good writer, I can do it myself!” Or, “what’s the ROI, really?”

Well…with over a decade of freelance copywriting experience I’m obviously a little biased, a copywriter, whether part-time, full-time, or freelance, can save you time which equals money, boost your brand, and be a valued member of your team, but there are times when hiring a copywriter doesn’t make sense.

The main reason for NOT hiring a copywriter is money.

Copywriters aren’t free. If you’re launching a small business with limited staff (like a staff of 1) and on a tight budget, writing your own copy or using vendor copy may be the only options.

Or perhaps you’re still experimenting with the voice and overall message of your company, setting goals, and refining marketing strategies. You’ll need to find a steady direction before handing the steering wheel over to an outside copy source. But even then, a copywriter can help find your company voice, if you find the right one.

So now let’s answer the original question, “Why should you hire someone to write your copy?”

The answer is simple, copywriters are paid professionals.

Just like any other profession, say photography, graphic and web design, or even construction, copywriting is a skilled trade with specific techniques.

 For example, just because you feel confident snapping selfies on your phone, doesn’t mean you’re qualified to shoot a wedding, same principal, different industry.

Time= $$
Time is a major player when considering a copywriter. Do you have the time to write all the product descriptions, blog posts, social media updates, and weekly email blast? Chances are good your time is better spent getting new clients. A copywriter can save you time by crafting your copy for you.

We all know time equals money. So how much is your time actually worth? Could it be better spent in other areas of your company? Yeah. Thought so.

Either you’ve got a brand or are building one. A copywriter is trained in the art of persuasive writing. They can build on the existing voice of your company or ask the right questions to help you discover that voice and then use it to speak to your target audience. Quality copy can educate and inspire potential clients to follow a call to action.

It’s not magic. It’s experience.

More than just writing quality copy on deadline, a good copywriter gets to know your business so they can write in your company voice and has valuable insight on the ins and outs of current copy trends, how people digest online content, and what kind of copy generates the precious return on investments we’re all looking for. Doesn’t matter if they’re freelance or an actual hired employee, as professionals they will be a valued member who brings their own knowledge and experience to the table.


Well that’s it for this episode. I’m Laurie Brekke of Big Ink Writing Services. Thanks for listening to the Strong Worlds Podcast.