Everything You Absolutely Need To Know About Hiring A Content Writer For Your Therapy Website
Part 3

 

​(continued from Part 2)​

Where Should I Start My Search To Hire A Content Writer?

Now that you have a starting point for what you need, how do you locate the best talent? Let’s review a few strategies.

Online Marketplaces (Buyer Beware!)

If you’ve already Googled where to hire a content writer, you’ve probably landed on sponsored ads for popular websites like Upwork or Fiverr. These online marketplaces have obvious advantages. They’re convenient, they usually offer client protection, and they have about five million eager writers ready to work for you.

What’s the catch? While freelancing gems exist, many of these marketplaces attract extremely poor talent. Many times, their writers don’t have an established reputation beyond that marketplace.

If you post an ad, it’s not uncommon to receive hundreds of responses. Do you really want to sift through all of those candidates? Finally, you usually must pay service fees to use these marketplaces. That means you’re paying for the writer- and you’re paying additional transaction costs on top of their rates.

If you do plan to use an online marketplace, we recommend you:

• Post a very clear job description detailing what you need.
• Take the time to search for freelancers yourself.
• Read freelancer testimonials and reviews.
• Learn about the fee structures and marketplace terms of service.
• Offer a paid trial run to potential candidates to determine if you’re a good fit.

Content Mills (Buyer Beware!)

You may have also stumbled upon creative agencies advertising their super affordable rates! These agencies often provide packaged services below market value. Unfortunately, these costs often hurt both writers and clients.

Similar to online marketplaces, content mills tend to attract suboptimal quality. First, you may not know who the writer is behind the work. Additionally, a different writer may be assigned to each article, making your content sound choppy and incongruent.

Social Media Groups

Social media can be a great launchpad for finding a content writer. Inquire within your therapist groups if anyone has any recommendations.

Your Web Designer

Many designers have working relationships with content writers. Additionally, they have first-hand knowledge in understanding what content your site needs.

Top Red Flags To Consider When Hiring A Content Writer

Like vetting any other professional, take the following warning signs into consideration before starting a new agreement.

No Portfolio Or Published Samples

There’s nothing wrong with hiring a beginner content writer. However, you need some way to check their work. Even if they aren’t yet published, serious beginners will have personal blogs or academic assignments to showcase their talent.

Lack Of Responsiveness

You shouldn’t have to chase down a writer, particularly during the onboarding process. While nobody needs to offer 24/7 interaction, you shouldn’t be left holding onto your questions for several days or weeks.

Fails To Provide Contracts or Service Agreements

Professional writers treat their freelancing endeavors as a business. Therefore, they use legitimate paperwork with their clients. Such paperwork includes contracts and service agreements that clearly outline their deliverables.

Be cautious of hiring a content writer who lacks a formal onboarding process. Contracts and agreements protect both parties.

What if you pay your writer a hefty deposit, and they disappear? What if you want ghostwritten articles (meaning you publish it under your name), and the writer shares it on social media bragging about their great ideas? Legal issues are always a risk, but a professional writer mitigates the likelihood of such complications.

Lack of Invoices

Professional writers also handle their payments professionally. In addition to providing contracts, they also invoice for their services. If a writer simply asks you to “Venmo me” or “transfer money to my account,” this might indicate:

• They’re brand new to freelancing.
• They’re disorganized with their bookkeeping, paperwork, and (possibly) with their work in general.
• They want to avoid paying taxes.
• They’re trying to scam you.

Neglects Your Feedback Or Suggestions

Just like in therapy, you and your writer need to build rapport. It can take time for your writer to truly hone in on your voice and style preferences. That said, each assignment should get closer to capturing your practice’s mission and vision. Good writers work hard to integrate their clients’ feedback. They want you to be dazzled by their services!

Conclusion

We constantly remind our clients that their website is their storefront. Just like you wouldn’t build your office if you didn’t have construction experience, you shouldn’t manage your writing unless you know what you’re doing!

While hiring a content writer may seem overwhelming, the right investment will pay itself in dividends.