People have big dreams when they launch a new website, whether they own a large business or create the site for fun. Those dreams often involve visitors coming to the site and buying products or browsing the content. Unfortunately, those dreams don’t always come true. There is a reason that visitors aren’t coming to your website: Your visitors are not interested in the content that they find on your site. A talented blogger can help remedy this situation. You can’t hire just anybody, though; ask the right questions to get the results you want.
What are Your Rates?
Talking about money makes some people uncomfortable, but this should always be the first question you ask. Don’t accept vague answers like, “I’m pretty cheap” or “We can probably work something out; I’m flexible”. You and your blogger might have very different ideas of “cheap” or “flexible”. Work out payment details, including when and how the blogger will be paid for their content services, before you share a bunch of confidential company info related to the project. Make sure that you put them in writing.
Do You Have Any Samples?
You have probably already seen several writing samples if you were contacted directly by a blogger offering their Web content services. If you posted a job ad, you may not have. The thing about blogging positions – as well as with other jobs – is that not everybody who applies is qualified. Don’t be fooled by an impressive cover letter and resume; request a few existing samples. If the blogger you like doesn’t have samples, ask them to write some sample copy. Be sure to specify whether the samples will be paid.
Are You Familiar with SEO?
Google has more mood swings than a pregnant woman, making it difficult to keep up with the latest algorithm changes. You might not know what that means, but most experienced bloggers will. A professional web content writer knows that search engine optimization, commonly referred to as SEO, draws traffic in or drives it away.
Can You Tell Me a Bit About Your Previous and Current Clients?
Sometimes it’s good to ask open-ended questions. Some bloggers may interpret this as a chance to discuss the types of projects that they completed in the past. Others may see it as the perfect opportunity to vent about the weirdo they used to work for. Be careful not to hire a blogger who bashes previous clients unless you don’t mind the possibility of being one of them in the future.
Why Do You Want to Write for My Site?
People are surprisingly honest about why they want a blogging gig. Some bloggers desperately need money and want to blog for anybody who will pay them – some will even admit this upfront. Hire one of these bloggers if you truly like their writing style, but try to avoid them. Look for a blogger who loves your products or is passionate about the subject matter your site requires. The relationship will be more beneficial for you both.
Missy N is a freelance writer available on WriterAccess, a marketplace where clients and expert writers connect for assignments.
