What To Expect When You Hire Heather
If this your first time hiring a professional writing service or freelance writer it's reasonable to have some questions about the client experience. How does everything work? What kind of guarantee do I have that you'll meet my expectations? How do you accept payments? I've written this overview to answer those questions and many more you may have so that our professional relationship can begin as all relationships should – with clarity, honesty and mutual respect.
Process
Developing your content is usually a very straightforward process. Once you have contacted me with your project details, I'll evaluate your needs and be back in touch with you right away for a consultation (usually that day, if at all possible). During the consultation, we'll clarify project details, determine scope and pricing and arrange for payment(s).
Once we've come to an agreement, you'll provide me any files that you feel are necessary to complete the job. This may be as simple as a list of topics for a blog or as complex as all the materials for a training course. In either circumstance, we'll determine what is needed in our consultation.
At this point, I'll research your assignment and begin the writing process. When the work is completed, I'll submit the first finished draft to you on or before our deadline. Or in the case of larger projects, I'll submit sections of the draft for review according to a pre-determined milestone schedule.
Once you've had a chance to review my work, you'll submit your revisions to me. I, like many writers, prefer files that are capable of tracking changes but that is by no means a requirement – just a good idea. If it is all possible, changes should be written changes, not given over the phone, to avoid potential misunderstandings and confusion.
Revisions are included in my price but only within reason. If for instance, we are on our second revision and it becomes necessary to rewrite significant portions of the assignment due to late collaborator input or project oversight, I'll have to assess additional charges. You will under no circumstances be assessed these additional charges without your express consent.
Pricing
I have learned from experience that it is in everyone's best interest to give pricing information to clients based only on their specific project. Pricing tables and ballpark figures too often lead to misunderstandings and distrust. Many companies do provide these but they are often misleading and replete with hidden costs. My goal is to build a positive, transparent client relationship, I have no interest in nickel and diming or treating my clients unethically in any way, so I quote solely on the scope of the project.
Another benefit from this pricing practice is that it allows me considerable flexibility in quoting your project. If you have a small project, I can don't have to charge you a set price – we are free to arrive at a fair and equitable agreement.
Payment
Payment is simple. Once you have signed-off or otherwise approved your finished project, pay me in whatever way is most convenient for you. Usually my clients request that they be invoiced so they may pay by check but you may also use PayPal, Mastercard, Visa or Discover.
You should also know that I do require payment in full upon receipt of invoice for one-time projects. Ongoing projects can be billed as you see fit – monthly, bi-weekly, by a certain number of assignments; whatever fits your business better. Also, on occassion, for very large projects, I may require a retainer be paid up front.
If you have a question I didn't cover above or in my frequently asked questions section, please feel free to give me a call at xxx.xxx.xxxx or contact me via email at heather@hireheather.com.
