Milk and sugar? Your copywriting questions answered
FAQs
How do you write about my business when you don’t have insider knowledge?
At the start of any business writing project, I will send you a briefing document for you to complete and return with your deposit. It covers such things as your company culture, what sort of “voice” you want, your target audience, your competitors and more. I then do some research of your industry and any current marketing material you may have, and will ask you via phone or email for further information if needed.
What happens next?
Once I have done any research and sought further information, I write a first draft based on this research and the briefing document. You will be given the opportunity to make edits and return within a certain time frame. I then prepare the second draft for you and you have one further opportunity for edits before I write the final draft. Further edits after this will be charged at my hourly rate, with a minimum of one hour.
What kind of industries do you have experience in?
I have worked across the board, but I have in-depth knowledge of the utility, government, academic and regulatory sectors. My broader experience includes workplace health and safety, industrial relations, small business, member associations, asset management and vocational education.
Will you do a trial piece first?
Of course I am happy to write a short piece so you can see whether we are a good fit. Where should I send the invoice?
What is your writing style?
My natural style is conversational and informal – some might say irreverent – but like any good copywriter, I will write in the style the client specifies in the brief. As you can see from my industry experience, I have worked in loads of highly technical fields that require a more official and precise tone.
Why do I have to pay a deposit?
Like many freelancers, I juggle a number of projects with conflicting deadlines. I am often booked out up to a month in advance and operate a tight calendar that depends on jobs starting when scheduled. That is why I cannot book in your job without a non-refundable deposit. Think of it as your commitment to your business growth.
I need something quickly; is that possible?
While my schedule is tight (see above), I am sometimes able to offer a fast turnaround, and will add a 25 per cent loading to compensate for the need to work out of hours and shuffle my calendar.
Can we meet?
Probably not. If I met with every client, I would never get any writing done. I prefer to “meet” via Skype, telephone or email. If, however, you are in Adelaide and feel more comfortable meeting in person at your workplace, you will be charged at my normal hourly rate + travel time (and I am based an hour south of the city). Or you can come to me. Makes Skype sound good, doesn’t it?
Can I pick your brain?
My brain has been nurtured and developed over 25 years in the communications industry and has cost me a fortune in post-graduate education, professional development, text books, seminars, conferences and more. I am happy to offer the first 15 minute consultation free to every new client. If you like what you hear and want more, we can book a further session at $50/30 minutes. If this is not suitable, I give plenty of information at the Black Coffee Blog.
Want to know more, then give me a call on 0403 595 445 or fill in my contact form.