Professional copywriter - FAQs
You're not the only UK based copywriter around - so why choose you?
I have more experience than most other freelance copywriters based in the UK. I've worked with agencies and clients of all types and sizes. With budgets from the monster to the miniscule. New media and old, above, below and through the line. I've been fortunate enough to win quite a few awards too. I offer a fixed price, which includes amends - so there are no hidden costs. I'm quick, I'm reliable, and I do not miss deadlines.
How do your prices compare with what an agency or other writers would charge?
You'll get ad agency expertise, but at much lower prices and in less time. As for other writers, I'm not the cheapest, but then again a cheap writer could cost you a lot of money. Beware writers who offer suspiciously low rates, or who claim to be just as good at other services like design. And watch out for search engine optimisation copywriters who only know about keyword stuffing. They could end up getting your site penalised by the search engines - and their copy could put off rather than convince customers.
I'm just starting my own business and I've got next to no money - can you help?
Yes and no. If you're just starting out and money is very tight, I'll try and give you a good price. But please remember that I am a professional, and though I won't charge as much as a lawyer, I cost more than a plumber or electrician. If you've already drafted your own copy, one option would be to take advantage of my copy critique service.
What about copy amends?
Up to two sets of copy amends are automatically included in any price I quote, so you don't have to worry about hidden costs.
What information do you need for a project?
Generally, the more information you can give me the better. Background stuff, other examples of your advertising, what your competitors are doing, and so on. And don't forget tone of voice, proposed structure, mandatory inclusions - everything you can think of. The more I know, the better your copy.
Emergency, emergency - I need something written by tomorrow morning. Can you do it?
Yes, I often can. However I may charge a little more if it really is last minute or involves working unsocial hours. If it's urgent, it may be better to call me rather than email me.
As a search engine optimisation copywriter, can you write me a website that will get me a first page ranking with Google?
The way a website is written is crucial to how it's ranked by Google and the other search engines. And chances are you found my site because it came high up in a search engine listing. However, you can never guarantee a certain placing on Google. (Any search engine copywriter or web development company that claims to is being economical with the truth and is probably using 'spamming' techniques which will cost the site dear in the long run.)
Your overall listing is determined by a variety of factors, including the amount of competition, how often your site is updated, and the number of links to it. That said, websites I've copy optimised have all done well - and without the need for expensive link building campaigns. In each case, I've got them on the first page of Google for important keywords. For details, please see my search engine copywriter page
I need an ad art directed / a website designed and hosted / a mailer printed and mailed / a media schedule booked. Can you help?
Yes indeed. In fact, in the case of an ad or a website, I'd thoroughly recommend you use a professional art director or web designer, as well as a copywriter. And if you need the finished article, I can recommend highly experienced production, printing and media professionals.
I may be interested in using you for a project. What's the procedure?
We can discuss your requirements and, if you decide to go ahead, agree a fee and a timing plan. If necessary, we can meet for a briefing - preferably in central London, although I may be able to travel elsewhere. To get started, simply contact me