Should You Hire an Online Writer?
Adding new content to your website is an important consideration. If you have a stagnant website that’s only updated once a year, it will eventually fade away into obscurity. (A good thing that websites don’t need food or else there would be plenty of Internet famines) If you don’t have the time or ideas to constantly update a website, blog or e-commerce site, then it may make sense to hire an online writer. What are some important points to consider first?
1. Work with a Company
If you work with an established SEO company then you get more than just original content. You also get efficient keyword optimization help that will increase your search engine rankings. Some of these companies offer a ranking guarantee and charge just a little bit more money than an online writer would charge for the article itself.
2. Specify What Kind of Content You Need
It pays to be specific. If you hire an online writer to fill pages with no specific directions, then don’t expect a lot of groundbreaking content. Specify what subjects you want to hear about and what subjects you want to avoid. Specify if you want unique articles rather than rewrites. (Though there may be a difference in price) You can even suggest links of other websites that the writer could get ideas from.
3. Plan To Boost Sales Or Hold Strategic Traffic
There’s no use in hiring an online writer unless you have a central purpose in mind. Are the articles that you buy intended to boost sales or hold steady traffic? Would your web viewers have an interest in related topics or just keyword articles? Would opening blog comments further increase customer interest? Professional writers may charge rates up to 5 cents a word or more, so make sure that you consider the business side of this feature. Some writers will work for much less, though the quality of work will usually match the price. A professional website should always feature the best original content available, whether the author is the company owner or a hired help.
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This blog was created by Srini Saripalli to address more tactical aspects of internet marketing.
Srini, I was a freelance copywriter for many years, but my experience has been mostly print and some radio/tv. I’ve been out of the business for awhile doing the “mommy-thing.” Is there a book, class or something you’d recommend for me to read/take to get better skilled in online copywriting? Where is the best place to promote my services? I’ve seen a lot of junk online selling themselves as a source for freelancers, but it doesn’t seem to attract clientele who are willing to pay real freelance rates.
Hi Cassie,
Copywriting is one of the most difficult aspects of internet marketing. Very hard to get to the top, but once there its very rewarding( you can charge anywhere from $5000 to $1 million+ for a single sales letter). So my first recommnedation is you learn the subject inside and out ( I will compile a list of resources and post it on this site in the next few days).
The best copywriters whom I meet and talk to have struggled for years to get to the top. No shortcuts here.
Once you learn the nuances of it, find a few successful online marketers and start writing free copy for them. Make sure these marketers will drive a lot of traffic to this copy and will track the conversions. Get testimonials from them and start building your own business in parallel
Here is a list of my Copywriting Heors(a few of them) whose teachings have helped me tremendously.
David Ogilvy
Ted Thomas
Dan kennedy
Yanik Silver
Alex Mandossian
Cory Rudl
Most of the top online marketers are successful copywriters in the first place. So you get the idea.
Years ago, I burnt a lot of money on junk copy and eventually decided I will never use a copywriter in my business. These days I write my own copy, and am extremly selective if I have to outsource.
Hope that was helpful. Sorry if I have confused you more.
Cheers!
Srini
Thanks, Srini. Now if I could just figure out what I want to do when I grow up…LOL I’m debating on going back to school, but can’t decide to get my associates in graphic/web design or my Master’s in Public Administration! LOL Then I see what you’re doing and think, what I REALLY want to do - and always have - is figure out how to work from home. Just trying to figure out the balance of that. Mostly, I want to focus on my own sites, write for myself and get those making money. Quickly, if possible. Now, if I could figure out how to function without sleep…