As a professional writer and editor, I’m always interested in other professionals’ views on writing. I recently read an excellent article by Dave Kerpen entitled, “Want To Be Taken Seriously? Become a Better Writer.” The article is written as a guide for both writers and professionals, and Mr. Kerpen gives several practical tips.
Mr. Kerpen also writes, “writing is a lost art, and many professionals don’t realize how essential a job skill it is.”
He’s absolutely right.
I was also struck by what the article leaves out. The article doesn’t mention that many professionals are too busy to write (or edit) their own content. Of course, everyone should learn how to write better e-mails. But, considering my vocation, I obviously think hiring a freelance writer/editor can help business owners with customer-facing content.
Here are three reasons why:
Boost Your Signal
A good writer or editor helps you reduce “content noise.” If you spend even five minutes on social media or news sites, it’s easy to drown in the deluge of links, pics, infographics, and video clips.
A writer can help you reach your target audience. For example, I wrote blog posts for a Portland-based naturopath for a few months, developing well-cited articles about subjects like bioidentical hormones. The blog posts were written in a way to boost my client’s signal and cut out the noise.
Save Time
An experienced writer/editor can help you create content that you would write if you had time. And I use a similar principle in my own life. I’ve been interested in finance for several years, but I’m not a financial expert. I’ve used an accounting firm for several years, and even consulted financial planners for my daughter’s 529 Plan. I could do my own number crunching (I do my own accounts payable/receivable), but I much prefer handing that task to an accountant!
Collaborate and Support
A freelance writer or editor can become a long-term partner for your business. I enjoy working with my clients, giving them the best of my expertise when I’m at my best. My long-term clients Northwest Interpreters, Inc., have always treated me more like a partner than a freelancer. We’re invested in each other’s businesses, and this collaboration makes both of us stronger.
(2014 Update: I did enjoy working with the leadership team of Northwest Interpreters from 2012-2013. They have since rebranded their business. I will always root for them and think fondly of our time working together.)
—
Do you agree with Mr. Kerpen? Or would you prefer to outsource writing to someone else?
Image Credit: Pen and Paper by Junior Libby
