Five reasons you shouldn’t work with me
No matter how good a relationship is, there are always some things that give you the ick. After working with clients for more than five years, I’ve discovered a few common characteristics that, since I’ve gone freelance, have become my non-negotiables.
As a generalist copywriter and content manager with experience in writing for many different sectors, brands and audiences, I’m happy to take on a range of briefs. However, to make sure a project runs as smoothly as possible, I recommend that clients consider my top five dealbreakers.
#1 You want churn content
Looking to spend a few pounds on content ideas that have been pulled out of thin air? Then I’m not the copywriter for you. Building out your brand strategy, giving your customers helpful information or communicating the benefits of your services or products are all good reasons to create content. Just filling a gap on your website isn’t.
If you’re not sure what content you want, that’s totally fine. I’m happy to chat about what you need and help you come up with ideas. Maybe even a full strategy that we can feed keyword and competitor research into. Real originality and creativity isn’t just the key to content success, it’s what I pride myself on offering. Not earning a few pennies per brainless word.
#2 You don’t want a writer’s input
If you think you can write it yourself or an AI bot can do a good enough job, then ChatGPT is your guy. I understand that, as the authority on your business, you’ll have the final word on any content or tone of voice choices I use.
That’s why I want to work collaboratively with my clients on their projects. By doing that, I can start to learn more about their industry, team and expertise. From this, I can start to bring a real return on your investment - big ideas, creative strategy and effective content.
#3 You don’t like questions
Even if you send me the most thorough brief, I’m likely to have a couple of questions for you. I’m a curious person that wants to make sure I’ve got every detail right. That’s because I understand the importance of accuracy, particularly in complex sectors. So I won’t be afraid to ask all the questions I need to understand your business and what it wants to say to its audience.
In return for your responsiveness, I’ll not just give you great content, but be equally responsive. I know there’s nothing worse than being left hanging, so I’ll always make sure to get back to my clients within a day (latest).
#4 You want meaningless copy
“As innovators, we seek to create productive synergy with our clients and take their performance to the next level. We’re disruptors and game-changers who can revolutionise your customer journey.”
Any ideas?
“It’s summer! Time to upgrade your wardrobe with some new T-shirts. Whether you want T-shirts for men, T-shirts for women or custom T-shirts, we’ve got a great option for you.”
Can anyone guess the primary keyword in this sentence?
Copy needs to say something meaningful. It needs to have a real voice and be helpful, engaging, informative or entertaining. Chicken and broccoli copy ain’t my bag, so only get in touch if you want words that’ll make your tongue tingle.
#5 You want something I can’t offer
I categorise myself as a generalist. Though I do specialise in breaking down complex topics, information or services and products into clear, effective content, this means I’m happy to work with clients in complex sectors such as:
Engineering
Healthcare
Construction
Automotive
Manufacturing
Public sector
However, there are a few areas that I don’t feel I have the right expertise or skill set for, including complex finance, law and the military sector.
Regardless of your industry, I’m happy to have a chat with you about your project. If I can’t help myself, I can put you in touch with a network of other talented writers and content creators. So, whether you work for an agency or in-house, feel free to drop me a line at cathlyonfreelance@gmail.com.
