10 Tips for Choosing a Website Copywriter, Quality Content Generates Leads & Sales

You have a professionally-designed website. You like the way it looks, and the navigation functions well. Now all you need is the content. After all, pictures are nice but copy is what persuades a visitor to become a customer. Keep these 10 tips in mind when choosing your website copywriter.

Check out her website. See how she presents herself. Read her pages. Do you like her writing style? Do you feel a connection to her?
Ask to see samples of her website copywriting. Any website copywriter should be able to provide you with links to websites she’s written. Take a peek. Do you like them? Be sure you’re reading her words and not just evaluating the websites on the basis of their design and pictures.
Google the website copywriter. You might find articles or blog posts she’s written, which will give you more insights into her capabilities. You also might find her mentioned on feedback sites, for better or for worse.
Ask if she has any client testimonials. Many website copywriters post comments from their clients right on their own website. Even though you’ll probably only find positive feedback, the client comments will give you a better understanding of the writer’s strengths. If she has no testimonials to share, you can ask for client references and then call one or two.
Talk with the website copywriter. Don’t rely solely on email. You want the added communication value that comes through voice. Most writers won’t want to meet in person because it’s not time efficient, but a phone call would be worthwhile for everyone. Determine during the call if you feel the writer is listening and understanding your requirements. Do you feel the connection? Does she seem confident she can do your work?
Ask for a quote on your website copywriting project. Price is always a factor, although it shouldn’t be your sole priority. Instead, place emphasis on value. Do you feel investing in copywriting with this writer will be a good value? Remember, good copy should make you money by generating leads and sales, so don’t try to save a few dollars on copy that ultimately won’t deliver the desired results.
Spell out the parameters of your project. Doing so will help ensure that your expectations will be met. Website copywriters are not mind-readers. They only know as much as you tell them. Delineate the key points you want made, audience you want to target, the sales process, the call to action, your deadlines and your budget restrictions.
Ask for a written agreement that itemizes the above points. That way there’s less chance for any sort of misunderstanding.
Provide her with all the background information she needs. Don’t hold back. She’ll want to quickly get up to speed on your product or service. If someone in your organization can provide insights, offer to set up a conference call. The more she knows and understands about your business, products and services, the better job she’ll do.
Trust the pro. If you’re hiring a professional website copywriter, then be receptive to her ideas. She’s trying to help. Of course no one knows your business better than you do, but she can provide an objective outsider’s viewpoint. She can also give you the benefit of her experience working with other clients on their website. That doesn’t mean you should accept every idea without question, but do give her suggestions and recommendations serious consideration.

Follow these tips and you’re sure to have a successful experience in selecting and working with a professional website copywriter.