You've probably learned this by now...
even though writing copy seems easy on first glance, if you try to do it yourself, it tends to...
well, not get such stunning results.
So you've decided, in order to get those amazing results and conversions you've heard of for your sales-letters...
you need to hire a copywriter, right? But...
There are some very important things to take into consideration first.
1) Not all copywriters can write sales-letters!! (and you probably can't tell if they can!) In fact...
copywriters have specialties, much like doctors.
Before hiring your copywriter, see that you make sure he's got extensive work particularly with salesletters.
But then again, if you do the hiring right, you would know that the right copywriter for you is picky anyway.
He won't take up just any job.
He will try to find out if your job is one he can excel at.
2) This is why copywriters specialize in terms of markets (and is it your market?) I mean sure...
There are some copywriters who are really good at writing on just about any subject.
But try to find a copywriter who's at least in your general area of service.
For example, if you sell weight-loss products, you'd prefer a copywriter with experience in weight-loss marketing.
But, then again, that's not always realistic.
So at least try to see if he's in the general area of life.
For example, its fine if he's marketed books on success or making money and now he can do a letter on weigh-loss.
However, its not good if most of his work is in technical areas, such as selling machines, technical widgets and such.
3) Don't hire based on price (its a fool's way to lose money!) Hire based on return-on-investment! If you do your hiring right, you should have found copywriters who guarantee concrete and specific numbers for what they will deliver.
So do the math.
Find out how much extra profit the extra conversions will bring you, and then multiply by 3-5 months.
This about the right return on investment.
You should be able to recover you investment in no more than 3-5 months.
You can be optimistic that you'll find the great copywriter in making, while he's still cheap and yes does great quality.
But odds are you won't.
So take out the calculator, and do the math.
Besides, it doesn't matter what the price is if you've made the deal right (he either delivers the results or doesn't get paid) 4) Ask questions, or risk having to answer why you failed If he's any good, he should be drilling you to find out all he can about your business and your goals.
If he's only interested in what you will pay, when and how...
Dump him, immediately! And don't be afraid to be quick about it.
Remember this process of finding the right person will take some time, and your time is precious, so work quick.
5) Be sure what the rules of his work are (or he will, and you don't want that) How much of what does he promise, and what is the guarantee (should be unconditional).
And when will he deliver it, and how much will he deliver.
All of these should be set in written form, agreed by both of you.
Set the rules right from the start.