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Frequently Asked Questions

Susan Greene, Florida Freelance Copywriter

Why should I hire you instead of an ad agency?
Susan Greene, Florida freelance copywriterI have nothing against ad agencies. In fact, ad agencies are some of my best clients. However, if the project you’re doing is copy-driven (i.e. websites, brochures, technical articles), you’ll probably save a lot by coming directly to me.

Typically, agencies have a high overhead which is reflected in their rates. Plus, most agencies don’t have in-house copywriters. Instead, they either ask their clients to provide their own copy or they farm it out to a specialist like me (adding a little something for themselves to my rates).

Assuming I’ve decided to go the freelance route, why should I hire you vs. another copywriter?
I have over 20 years professional writing experience, a BS degree in journalism from Syracuse University and an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. I bring not only expert copywriting skills to the table, but also marketing acumen and business know-how. I’ve written for hundreds of companies and helped them get results. I can do the same for you.

Who are most of your current clients?
They fall into two main categories. The first is ad agencies and web site designers. These folks typically subcontract the copywriting work for their clients to me. The second group is companies for which I work directly. They range from professional service firms like accountants and real estate brokers, to manufacturers and high tech firms, to transportation companies and government agencies.

How do you charge?
My rates are reasonable. After all, as a freelancer working out of my home, I have no overhead to speak of. I quote each project individually. I try to assess the number of hours I’ll need to complete the work and take into account its level of complexity. My clients, without exception, feel they get excellent value for their money. In addition to great copy and first-rate service, they receive the benefits of my marketing expertise and business know-how.

What is the typical process for having you write say a brochure or website for my firm?
I’ll usually want to speak with you by phone. I’ll ask you a lot of questions related to your marketing objectives, your prospects, your customers, and your competition.

I’ll obtain from you as much information as possible (written or verbal) to use in preparing your copy. I’ll then produce a first draft and await your feedback, then make revisions as needed. Only when you’re 100% satisfied with every single word do I consider the job done.

What happens if I don’t like the first draft of copy?
Usually I come pretty close to hitting the nail on the head, but if that’s not the case, it’s a problem easily solved. In fact, that’s really the purpose of writing a first draft. It helps me to clarify exactly what you do want. That first draft then becomes a starting point for me to get your feedback and write a second draft that’s more on target.

What comes first, design or copy?
This comes up a lot, and there’s no right or wrong answer. If you already have a design or layout, I’ll work with it, making sure my copy complements and enhances it. If you don’t have a design, I’ll draft copy and give recommendations for a layout. The bottom line is, whatever your situation, I’ll make it work so that the end result is a marketing piece you’re proud of.

What kind of work do you like best?
Websites. I enjoy sinking my teeth into a massive amount of information and organizing it to be meaningful and effective. Also, I truly believe in the value of the Internet as a marketing tool. I’ve spent the last five-plus years studying the Internet and learning what gets results. Good copy is absolutely vital for getting placement on search engines and for converting prospects into customers.

Will you be able to write about my business if you don’t have direct experience with my field?
Yes. Sure I’ll need to take some time to become familiar with the particulars of your business, its jargon, and your industry at large, but I don’t see that as a formidable task. I enjoy doing research and will quickly get up to speed. More importantly, regardless of the business you’re in, the same basic marketing principles apply. It’s just a matter of adapting them to your particular situation.

What if I’ve already got a rough draft, and I just need help with editing?
No problem. Let me take a look at what you have. I’ll give you recommendations for improving the copy and a quote for me to do the work. If the copy really doesn’t need improvement, I’ll tell you for free.

How long are turnaround times?
I write fast. My clients are usually impressed with how efficiently things get done. Once we clarify the parameters of your project, I’ll give you a firm completion date. If you have a deadline to meet, please let me know up front, and I’ll do everything I can to accommodate you.

What if I live in another state (not Florida like you)? Can we still work together?
Absolutely. I still have some clients in my home state of New Hampshire whom I never see. And I’ve been writing entire textbooks for Houghton Mifflin out of Boston for the past 10 years, and we’ve never had a single in-person meeting. I even have some local clients whom I’ve never met. We work exclusively by phone and the Internet. It’s a great arrangement—I never have to get out of my pajamas if I don’t want to!

Ready to get started on your project? Contact Susan Greene at Susan@SusanGreeneCopywriter.com or call 407-578-5528 (Orlando, Florida).

© 2012 Susan Greene, freelance copywriter. All rights reserved.

 

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