Many business owners want to save money and think they can create quality web content themselves. But there is value to hiring content professionals. In this article, we will show you how to hire freelance content writers for your business.

Where to find a freelance content writer

There are many online resources designed to help you locate and hire a suitable professional:

Freelance platforms

Fiverr

Fiverr is known for its wide range of freelance services, including writing. Clients can browse through profiles, review portfolios, and hire writers with specific skills.

Freelancer

Similar to Upwork, Freelancer allows clients to post writing projects and select freelancers based on bids, reviews, and expertise.

Upwork

Upwork is a popular platform connecting clients with freelancers across various fields, including writing and journalism. Clients can post jobs, review proposals, and hire freelancers based on their profiles and reviews.

Job boards

Indeed

Indeed is a widely used job board where you can post writing opportunities and find writers who are actively seeking work.

MediaBistro

MediaBistro caters specifically to media professionals, making it an excellent platform for finding experienced journalists and writers.

Content creation platforms

ClearVoice

ClearVoice is a content creation platform that connects clients with freelance writers. It provides tools for content creation, collaboration, and payment.

Contently

Contently connects businesses with professional journalists and writers. It allows clients to create content assignments and hire freelancers directly.

Social media platforms

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a professional networking platform where you can find many writers and journalists. Use advanced search filters to locate individuals with relevant skills.

X (formerly known as Twitter)

X is a great platform for connecting with writers and journalists. Follow relevant hashtags like #FreelanceWriter or #Journalist and reach out to professionals directly.

Writing communities

Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ)

SPJ has an online community where you can connect with journalists, ask for recommendations, or post job opportunities.

Writers’ forums

Online writing communities (e.g., Absolute Write, Writing Forums) often have job boards and sections for writers seeking work. These can be excellent places to find talent.

Specialized websites

JournalismJobs.com

As the name suggests, this website specializes in journalism jobs, making it a targeted platform for finding experienced journalists.

ProBlogger

ProBlogger is a job board specifically for blogging and content creation. It’s a great resource for finding freelance writers.

Local networking

Chamber of commerce events

Attend local business events organized by your chamber of commerce to meet writers and journalists in your community. Remember to thoroughly vet potential candidates, review their portfolios or samples, and consider their experience and expertise before making a decision. Building a good relationship from the start is key to successful collaboration.

Meetup

Check for local writing or journalism meetups on Meetup.com. Attendees may include writers looking for opportunities.

Interviewing potential freelance writers

When you are interviewing a writer, explain the project in full, detailing the role, requirements, and any particular knowledge or experience you require. Tailor these questions based on the specifics of your project and your preferences. Also, personalizing the message and questions demonstrates your genuine interest and increases the likelihood of getting relevant and informative responses.

Here are some questions to ask:

1. Availability

Are you currently available for new projects?

When would be a convenient time for an introductory call or meeting?

2. Communication preferences

What is your preferred mode of communication (phone, email, video call)?

3. Pricing

Could you provide details about your typical rates or how you structure your pricing for [specific type of content]?

4. Experience and approach

Can you share a bit more about your experience in [specific industry or type of writing]?

What is your approach to [topic or type of content]?

5. Portfolio/references

Could you share a few samples of your work or provide references from previous clients?

6. Additional information

Is there anything else you would like us to know about your skills, experience, or approach to content creation?

Should you hire a writer with SEO experience?

Hiring a writer with SEO experience offers the advantage of seamlessly integrating compelling and relevant content with effective search engine optimization strategies. A skilled SEO writer not only produces engaging and informative material, but also ensures that it aligns with search engine algorithms, enhancing online visibility.

This synergy can lead to improved organic traffic, higher search rankings, and increased brand visibility. However, caution is advised to prevent over-optimization or keyword stuffing, as this can compromise the quality and authenticity of the content.

You get what you pay for

Selecting a writer with a commitment to ethical and quality content creation is critical, helping combat issues such as misinformation and clickbait tactics that contribute to the erosion of content quality.

The ideal writer strikes a balance between SEO proficiency and maintaining high editorial standards, contributing to a meaningful and valuable online content landscape.

FAQs on hiring a content writer

About the Author

Post by: Annie Veale