Many brands that we speak with are suffering overwhelm. Social media has changed the way they need to operate. They’ve previously hired interns to handle social media, but have found that social media’s such an important aspect that they need someone with a bit more worldly perspective to generate good, worthwhile content. Meanwhile, loads of journalist friends are finding themselves in a new world. No longer employed by news outlets, they’re having to find jobs in the business world and suffering a bit as they don’t feel that they can be as objective and independent as they were once able to be.
Increasingly, we’re seeing journalists take (oftentimes invent) posts as client-side social media content developers; a perfect marriage which fruits impressive results. And, what’s more, this client-side role is easily done as a freelancer, allowing journalists near-complete autonomy. A recent post floated up on Stumble Upon along this theme.
What should your firm look for in the ‘right’ freelance journalist to help?
- Establish their passion-point. In our opinion, journalists are generally bright, switched-on people with a passion for investigating to find the truth. While it’s true that they’re used to switching industries and focus in order to meet editorial deadlines, it’s important to remember that you’ll pay for a bit of their learning curve if you don’t someone who has an innate interest and understanding of your industry.
- Brief them properly and judge them by the quality of questions they ask. Help them to understand your brand, what it stands for, the voice it uses when communicating with others and the acceptable bounds of their content. It’s likely that the candidate which asks the best questions during the interview process will do the best job for your brand.
- SEO equipped. While any freelancer will say that they are willing to take an SEO course, the process of writing with key terms in mind is a bit different to what they may be used to. Prior and proven experience in adhering to key terms in order to achieve good results is a good measure of their ability. If they’re not strong in this area, seek the advice of an SEO consultant to supplement and fill the gap.
- Clips. Google them! Search for articles they’ve pinned. Has the content they’ve generated been widely read? Were they interesting reads? How does the voice and tone of the article reflect the brand or publication they were writing on behalf of?
We don’t place freelance writers. But we’re big believers in good karma. So, if you’re stuck and are unable to find the right someone, get in touch. We may just know someone who could help.
And, of course, if you’re in need of a social agency, you’re in luck! Please get in touch.
