Before we get into this article, one thing to note when looking for a freelance copywriter is to consider finding a professional: someone who is more than "just a copywriter". It's a small distinction that can make a world of difference. A person who's "just a copywriter" is not likely to see the larger vision of what you're trying to accomplish. Granted, they may know how to do their job/profession well, but they might not be able to help you in other areas of marketing your business.



On the other hand, a professional who thinks of themself as more than a copywriter knows that, in addition to the work they produce, there's a lot more that contributes to your success. Since they're more likely to also be entrepreneurs and business owners, they can more readily understand what it's like to have to meet a payroll, research, and be on the leading edge of marketing communications. Not only will a pro copywriter create marketing communications for you, they can create entire advertising and marketing campaigns that will lead your prospects closer to the sale.

Some professional freelance copywriters know a bit of html, so they can communicate with your webmaster and graphic designer to come to a mutual understanding as to how your web copy will be laid out and designed.

So...how do you identify a true pro?

As alluded to above, they'll think of themselves as more than "just a copywriter". In other words, they'll identify themselves as "direct response copywriters and marketing consultants." Another title is "business strategist and direct response copywriter". These aren't the only titles of freelance copywriters, but they're good signs.

Second: they independently do their own advertising and marketing to attract their clients. The fact that a freelance copywriter currently advertises, has their own site, and keeps in touch with prospective clients is a very good indication that this person is a professional freelancer. Watch what they do.

Third: a lot of professional copywriters give their interested, prospective clients an initial consultation: when you're in a consultation with a prospective copywriter, and you find lots of light bulbs going off inside your head, that is the mark of a copywriter who understands the bigger picture. A true professional gives you insights and new, leading-edge ideas that will inspire you to move forward with your project. Also, since pro copywriters have a wider perspective, they can inform you of marketing gaps that you may have been too close to see. Of course, this will give you a sense of confidence that this person is the right professional for the job.

The fourth sign of a pro copywriter is that they specialize in something, or do something in a unique way. They may specialize in a given market, a given marketing channel (ie: direct mail, website copywriting, infomercial copy, etc.), or even have an very unique offer they make to their clients that's almost too hard to refuse. Such professionals may charge more, but it's usually worth the extra investment.

Though the fourth sign isn't critical, consider this: If a professional copywriter is unique in some way, and they know how to communicate that uniqueness, then there's a good chance that they'll be able to communicate the uniqueness of your product or service in a way that your potential customers find appealing.

For example, if your product or service is in some competitive market, one key reason why people will purchase yours is not just because what you have is great--it's because your offer was communicated to them in a unique, curiosity-generating and compelling way. When you find a professional copywriter who positions themself that way, you can rest assured they'll be able to do the same for you.

Finally, a great copywriter may be interested in working with you for the long term, not just a single project. They won't just see you as a one-time job, but rather, as a mutually-profitable business relationship that can last a lifetime.

In conclusion, if you use the above 5 pieces of advice as a criteria, or filter, for evaluating pro copywriters, your chances of finding the one who's most appropriate for you will increase dramatically.

PS: These 5 criteria are not cast in stone. If a potential copywriter doesn't meet one or two of these criteria, you may with to consider other advantages they bring to the table. There are a number of factors that can help you make the final decision, such as personality, if they've been referred to you, or whether you've worked with them before. There are potentially more than I can elaborate on here. I hope I've made the process of hiring a professional freelance copywriter (or any freelancer) easier for you.