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While running the writers’ website, Writerfind.com, I often get asked “Why hire a writer” and “What can a writer do for my business?” Here are some answers, based on my own experience and that of professional writers who are asked this question.

Any company, whether large or small, can benefit from hiring a freelance writer. A large company, which already has staff for marketing and communications functions, can supplement staff when there is a surplus of work. A smaller company, which does not have its own communications staff, can hire a freelance writer as and when needed, and can thereby save money by paying the writer per

project instead of hiring an employee.

A freelance business writer will help you communicate effectively with your customers and employees. You can use writers to create advertisements, brochures, catalogues and sales letters, as well as for company newsletters, technical documentation, annual reports, website content, and public relations materials.

Some additional ways in which your business can benefit from hiring a freelance business writer:

1. A fresh perspective.
Because you run your business, you’re obviously very close to it. Being very close to your business is not always a good thing – it can prevent you from getting a fresh look at how your business appears to outsiders. A professional writer from outside your business can provide a fresh perspective and a makeover for your company’s communications.

2. Improved sales.
A professional copywriter can revamp your company’s sales material with more persuasive copy. She can improve the effectiveness of your sales materials, either print or online, by identifying, from her extensive experience, what kind of copy will bring in the best results. She can create a newsletter for distribution to your customers, bringing increased sales, and create copy for your website so that it can be readily found by the search engines. She can focus on your products and services from the perspective of your customers, and create a message which focuses on benefits to them.

3. Professional contacts.
Professional writers have their own networks of contacts. When they work with you, they add you to this list, and they are more likely to direct their other contacts your way.

What to Look for when Hiring a Freelance Business Writer
Hiring the wrong writer can be disastrous and costly, both in money and in time spent. Following the steps below should help prevent such costly mistakes.

1. Determine whether your project is suitable for outsourcing.
As a general rule, the projects you outsource should be either specialized or one-time. If the project is specialized, or does not require ongoing management by a skilled employee, hiring an expert freelancer can be far more cost-effective than using in-house staff with a learning curve. Your company’s writing projects are often better managed by writers who are specialists in their field and have a broad range of writing experience than by in-house employees who do not have that depth or range of experience.