I try to keep my initial complimentary consultation focused on the problems of my prospective clients, and the potential ways I can help. Questions about cost can bog the conversation down. Business owners (and marketing managers eyeing their budgets) understandably feel they’re entering uncharted territory when they seek freelance writers or editors. Even in the
A few weeks ago, a financial advisor friend of mine and I had a conversation about the terminology of our respective professions. I mentioned how a few people seemed ambivalent about calling themselves copywriters, and some had started using the term, “content strategist.” “Copy” is a journalism term and one that evokes smoky newsrooms and
Inbound marketing is a powerful way to grow your business, especially if you’re a freelance copywriter. I was thrilled when my first prospective customer found me after I’d written a blog post. It happened when I was two months into my nascent freelance writing career. My prospective client and I scheduled a call, we hit
(Image Credit: “Light Bulb No. 2” by Chuck Coker) My networking group, The Copywriter Conclave of Portland, keeps a regularly updated blog chock full of valuable information for me, my fellow “Conclavists,” and our clients. I’ve been thinking a lot about what Conclave founder Amber James brought up in April: the ideal client. Amber mentions
It is the dawn of Obamacare.* October 1st marked the first day that U.S. citizens, with or without a history of health problems, can log on to state or federal health insurance exchanges and shop for comprehensive health insurance plans. The law is new, and it’s understandable that there is still confusion, as well as
I’m an experienced freelance writer, so I’m acquainted with the ups and downs of this vocation. One of the more challenging aspects of being a professional writer – especially in the aftermath of a terrible economic recession – is that some people expect writers to work for free, or below their market rate. For example, some
Content strategy is a broad concept, by design. The content strategy for a small business in Portland or Hillsboro, Oregon, will differ from Whirlpool‘s content strategy, for example. Of course, both content strategies may share similar elements, like social media outreach and special promotions. Research and A/B testing would likely play a role for each
Last year, I wrote about the pros and cons of working from my home (based near Portland, Oregon). I discussed benefits, such as taking a break from being a writer and editor by lying on my bed, and making my own hours. It’s a timely discussion now, considering Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer’s decision to end
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.
Website content is probably the most viewed content today. And yet, I think it’s often written as an afterthought. Sometimes website content focuses on over-selling a business, or it doesn’t include enough information about a product. For example, a client of mine (a Portland-area dentist) told me that my home page didn’t sell my services well enough. Talk about throwing the gauntlet down!
I based my former site design and color scheme on my business cards. My client gave me points for branding myself, but he pointed out that with the emergence of tablets like the iPad, site designs should focus on simpler graphics with more information about services. The verdict is still out on that, I think, but I definitely agreed that my site needed an upgrade.
I included more information about my services, and I included a testimonial. Check out the results, and let me know what you think!
If you, or someone you know, needs website content, my initial consultation is always free. I love learning about different businesses and organizations, so let’s talk!
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