There is a remarkable difference between a novel (published) writer and a freelance commercial writer and the difference lies in the way that we approach each project. A freelance commercial writer deals with multiple projects which often bring in the dough and most of the time, the writer will have no vested interested in the final product. For example, he/she would write an article or website content for a client based on gathered information and data. At the end of the day, the writer would not care whether the write-up fared well or not.
This is, in a way, the harsh truth that does not have to be true. A freelance commercial writer SHOULD be a cross between a novel writer and a true commercial writer; there is a grave need to CARE about what you are writing and how it’s going to fare for the client.
A freelance commercial writer writes better materials when he or she is concerned about the quality of work. After all, it’s fair to say that the paying client clearly wants to make something out of the written material and as a freelance commercial writer, we need to make sure that we have done our work in a conscionable manner. Every word, comma, full stop needs to count for something.
For example, one of the biggest problems is in getting a freelance commercial writer who understands the importance of a title. The title of the article will capture the attention of potential customers. Within the first few paragraphs, the writer needs to summarize or condense the essence of the whole article into the first paragraph or give the reader a good glimpse about what’s ahead of them. This will keep them going.
Yes, the life of a freelance commercial writer can get a little daunting when we have to hop from one project to another but bear in mind that the writer stands to learn a whole lot more when doing the research work for the client. Thank you lucky stars that you’re getting projects because I’ve, personally, seen how difficult it can be for a writer to get his or her start.
Most importantly, we have to bear in mind that we are freelance commercial writers and we’re being paid to make things work for the client. It could be boring or mindlessly mind-numbing to us, but it has commercial value for the client.
So, do it so that you don’t have to battle with your conscience when you hand over the work.