If you’re holding writing style contests in order to find a freelance content writer, it’s essential to know ahead of time what to look for in your contestants. Content writing work has a number of requirements, and the winner of your contest should exhibit all of them.
1. Choose the Writer Who Followed Your Instructions to the Letter
Creativity and poetic license have no place in a writing style contest unless you explicitly granted such permission. You’ll want a writer who can put their own ego aside and simply do exactly as they’re told; in this case, following your contest directions exactly as they are laid out.
2. Engage in Some Communication to Gauge Rapport
If you end up working with the winner of your contest, you’ll want to have someone with whom you have some kind of rapport. Effective communication is at the core of all good working relationships. Be certain you and the writer are on the same page by engaging in some back-and-forth commentary before making your final decision. Look for things like:
- Responsiveness – Are you receiving timely replies?
- Understanding – Is everything you say being misconstrued?
- Professionalism – Emojis and wild exclamations don’t belong in business communications.
- Brevity – Does it take the writer three paragraphs to explain a simple idea?
3. Read Through Past Client Reviews
There’s really no way to tell what it will be like to work with a writer unless you take the time to read through past client reviews. These reviews can be quite telling, both by what they say and what they don’t say. Look for actual statements like: “She’s always a pleasure to work with!” You should also look for less obvious clues like, “Once I explained everything again, she finally nailed it!” The lack of client reviews can also be a sign. Remember the adage, If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all. Many people still adhere to that rule.
Finally, don’t discount the efforts of 2nd and 3rd place entries in your writing style contest. If your first choice doesn’t work out, the runner-up may prove to be an invaluable backup resource.
About the author
Kathleen S is a real estate expert with over 10 years of experience writing in the real estate industry. During the day, she works as a real estate assistant, specializing in high end and luxury homes. With over 25 years of experience in writing, Kathleen has honed her skills in a wide variety of writing mediums.
