Earlier, I composed an article outlining some of the most obvious red flags freelance writers look for when considering a job. If you have found your orders passed up and wonder what could be going on, this could be part of the problem. Today, we will look at part two of this subject, so without further a due, read on to learn even more about the type of language/descriptions you should avoid when putting together either casting calls or order instructions. These points are compiled from my personal experience working in the freelance world for nearly a decade as well as opinions of other writers I garnered via an unofficial forum poll.
Common “Red Flags” to Avoid When Composing Order Instructions or Casting Calls Part II
Using The Word “Reject” Within Instructions or Casting Call
When writers look over a casting call or instructions for an order and see the word “reject”, as in you will reject the order if this or that, this is a huge red flag. In general, this word comes off as threatening, even if that is not your intention. It implies that even if a writer does their best on your order, your way of dealing with work that doesn’t meet your standards is not to send it back, but to flat out reject it. Since writers here are judged and ranked in part by client satisfaction, a rejection is a big deal. Also, writers are human. They will make mistakes. Therefore, implying anything other than perfection will be rejected is something that no human being can hope to fulfill.
Having Too Many Keywords
We understand keywords are important with regard to SEO within your content. However, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Too many keywords, especially packed into too small of a space, can make the content almost unreadable and it isn’t even that beneficial, marketing wise. In addition, it messes with the flow and greatly inhibits a writer’s ability to create something that will be entertaining and fun to read. Therefore, when an order is jam packed with keyword requirements, some writers will take a pass on the order altogether.
Using More Words to Instruct Than Ordered in an Article
If a writer picks up an order and the pages of instructions are longer than the content ordered, that’s a big red flag. Writers also tend to avoid complex instructions with too many explicit and regimented demands. In general, writers want to know what you want covered topic wise, whether you want it written in first, second or third person and then the purpose of the content, is it a blog piece, made for marketing, Facebook ad, etc. This is really all we need to know. Getting too deep into the instructions can overwhelm a writer and make them consider saying no to your order altogether.
Expecting Too Much From The Content
When it’s obvious you expect too much from your content, meaning you imply the article or blog has to be written by a “rock star” writer or on the level of a well-paid millionaire, best-selling writer, this can be a red flag. At WriterAccess, virtually all writers produce a quality product. However, indicating that you want your blog on lawn care protocol to be Nobel Prize worthy is a bit much. Consider the topic at hand and temper your expectations to meet the standards of the subject. There is only so much writers can do with some topics to make them interesting, and expecting more than humanly possible from the outset can send a writer running the other direction.
Not Paying Fair Wages
Let’s face it, money is always a factor and that is no different in the writing world. As writers, we have to make ends meet just like everyone else. We have bills to pay and rent or mortgage payments just like you. Therefore, if an order will demand a great deal of our time, we must be paid fairly in order to consider completing said order. Sure, there are some writers who are less busy than others or who are just starting out who might be willing to work for less revenue. However, in general, the longer a writer has been working in this arena, the pickier they will be when it comes to compensation and order demands. Consequently, if your order requires a great deal of research, you want images or anything extra like that, be sure to pay up for those services.
Avoid the above red flags in orders and casting calls to entice a wider range of writers to your content. Keep in mind, at the end of the day, writers are professionals just like you. We are just trying to make a living and are always working to improve our craft. Remembering this will go a long way in establishing a great working relationship with the right freelancer. Contact us today to learn more about our amazing writers.
Brandie P. has enjoyed freelance writing as a profession for almost a decade. She believes well written content can give any website or business an edge over their competitors. Therefore, she strives to maintain a level of professionalism in her work that will consistently elevate her clients and hopefully increase their revenue, reach and even reputation. She is happy to work with you today on your next project and especially values making long-term client/writer relationships.