How to Hire a Copywriter
(and why “I can write anything!” might be a red flag)
Hiring a copywriter isn’t just about finding someone who knows their way around a keyboard. It’s about finding someone who can clearly communicate your message, tell your story, capture your voice, and make sure your audience sticks around long enough to care.
But how do you know who’s the right fit? What do you look for? And what should make you raise an eyebrow?
Let’s break it down 👇
Why would you hire a copywriter?
Whether you are at a loss for words, need an outside (unbiased) perspective, or just don’t have the time, hiring a copywriter can be the solution. Here are some of the things I am hired to write:
Website copy — for a website refresh or a shiny new site
Customer communication — think emails, blog posts, newsletters, social media
Video scripting — know what you’re going to say before you jump in front of the camera
Business profiles — crafting on-brand profiles to boost your credibility
Product descriptions — creating stories about your goods and services that sell
Proofreading and editing — maybe you like to write, but need a fresh look before you hit send
In other words, a copywriter is part wordsmith, part storyteller, part strategist, part editor, and sometimes, part therapist.
What to look for in a copywriter (and what to avoid)
In my opinion, and you can take this with whatever measurement of salt you wish, considering I am a copywriter, a good copywriter needs to be able to do three basic things first and foremost:
Listen. You cannot tell a client’s story without first listening to what it is, asking questions, and diving deeper into their desired outcomes. You need to hear the story to truly capture their voice.
Write. This is kind of a given, or at least it should be!
Receive feedback. Any good writer should be able to take criticism (constructive or otherwise) and incorporate it back into their piece. This is especially true when you are writing for someone else. Remember, it’s their business after all.
So, how do you find such a creature? According to the Copywriter Hiring Guide on LinkedIn, here are a few common skills that hiring managers look for when searching for a copywriter:
Required Skills & Qualifications:
Excellent written and verbal communication
Professional writing experience (agency, in-house, or freelance)
Strong command of grammar and language
Research and time management skills
Ability to work independently in fast-paced environments
Preferred Skills & Qualifications:
Experience with social media or content marketing
Familiarity with CMS platforms (like WordPress or Drupal)
Basic understanding of SEO
Degree in journalism, English, communications, or a related field
Knowledge of style guides (AP, Chicago, etc.)
Apart from the basics, what else?
✅ Ask to see their portfolio or samples of work
They don’t have to write specifically for your industry, but they should show a range of work—think websites, blog posts, social, maybe even video scripts.
✅ Ability to match your voice
Good copywriters don’t just write well. They write you well. If their samples feel like someone else’s voice, that’s okay—but ask them how they’d adapt to your tone.
✅ A clear process
Writing is only part of the job. Look for someone who has a system—how they gather info, deliver drafts, handle revisions, and meet deadlines. A process means they take your time (and theirs) seriously.
✅ Editing and proofreading skills
Nothing derails good copy faster than typos or weird grammar. (Again, kind of a given here!) Your copywriter should deliver clean drafts and spot mistakes before you do.
✅ Positive testimonials
Glowing client feedback is always a good sign. Look for comments about communication, creativity, and reliability.
✅ Brand alignment
The best copywriters will feel like an extension of your team. They’ll care about your mission, your message, and your audience, and it’ll show in the work.
✅ Budget
This is one of those “you get what you pay for” moments. Understanding industry freelance rates is a great place to start. I use the Editorial Freelance Association’s (www.the-efa.org) rate chart when setting my rates. I’m also a firm believer that you shouldn’t have to pay for a copywriter on retainer. Some months may require more heavy pen lifting than others. I’m a small business too, and completely understand the need to be fiscally responsible. That being said, copywriters need to eat, and we do charge for our services!
A red flag to be aware of
🚩 “I Can Write Anything!”
This sounds confident, but it should be a red flag. No one is amazing at writing everything for everyone in every industry. A strong writer knows their wheelhouse and knows people to refer to when it’s not the right fit. Here are a few specific examples of specialized writing:
Grant writing
Technical writing
Ghost writing (books)
Public Relations (PR)
Final thought:
A good copywriter doesn’t just fill space on a page. They tell your story, clarify your value, and help your brand connect with the people you most want to reach. So take your time, ask questions, and don’t fall for the “I do it all” pitch. You deserve someone who gets you and your audience.
I’d love to hear what you’re working on and see how I can help. 💬 Let’s connect!
Want to learn more about my writing services? Click HERE.
Maybe you’re more of a “No thanks, I want to write it myself!” kinda person. Perfect! Check out this blog to learn how to turn one shiny moment into multiple pieces of content, and give me a shout if you’d like a final set of eyes on it before you press send!
