What a Freelance Writer Will Not Do

Generally speaking, freelance writers are a knowledgeable bunch with skills in a number of areas. However, there are a few tasks that fall outside of the realm of freelance writing. Here is a list of some of those items.

1. A freelance writer is not a graphic designer. Some freelance writers have knowledge in graphic design and can provide input and even basic design services.
2. A freelance writer is not your assistant. Most writers are happy to help you with tasks relating to your writing project, but remember that your writer has many clients he or she is working with and may not have the time or be skilled enough to help you with other administrative tasks.
3. A freelance writer is not an SEO expert. BUT … the writers at No. 2 Pen are very knowledgeable in search engine optimization and social media. While we will always recommend you work with an SEO expert up front, we can help implement SEO tactics and even provide some guidance in this area.
4. A freelance writer is not a copy editor. This one is tricky because most writers also work as editors, but it’s important to understand the difference between the two. An editor does not write the content and is therefore  not as closely related to the writing. This allows the editor to notice more errors and make edits more objectively. If you have a writing project that is professionally written, inquire about independent copy editing as well.
5. A freelance writer is not a Web programmer or a Web site designer. If you hire a freelance writer to write your Web content, he or she will be happy to provide you input on your Web site design, but it’s up to you and your Web design people to manage your site.
6. A freelance writer is not all things to all people. Most freelance writers have a niche or an area of expertise. While your freelance writer might be willing to help you write something that falls outside their normal area of work, understand that every freelance writer has her limitations.
7. A freelance writer is not a publisher or an agent. If you hire a freelance writer to ghost write your book or eBook, it’s important to understand that she cannot help you publish your book or eBook with a major imprint. Yes, she can offer guidance and advice on navigating the publishing industry and on writing, of course, but agents and publishing companies are a completely different breed. People in the book industry endlessly network with publishing professionals and devote their lives to selling books. Some freelance writers do offer self-publishing services that can lead to independent book sales, but  if you want help publishing your book the old fashioned way, a freelance writer is not the person you need.

Last, a freelance writer is a valuable person to have your team. It never hurts to ask your freelancer where else she may be able to help in your projects. You might be surprised to learn she has additional skill sets in the area you need work done, or better yet, she may be able to manage your project by outsourcing the work to other freelancers and overseeing the quality of their work.

The No. 2 Pen is a full-service writing and communications company. Contact us to discuss your writing projects and editing needs.