Finding quality remote content creators can sometimes feel like a challenge. You want someone who can deliver the goods without needing constant supervision but finding a writer who fits the bill is another story. Whether you’re running a travel blog, selling products, or need someone to handle marketing content, hiring a great writer is key to getting your message across clearly. If you’re wondering how to go about it, here are a few steps to help you lock down the right remote content creator.
1. Understand Your Needs First
Before you start hunting for a writer, take a step back and clarify exactly what you need. Ask yourself: Do you want a blog writer? Someone to manage your SEO content? Or maybe a technical writer? The clearer you are about your needs, the easier it will be to find the right fit.
Some companies make the mistake of hiring a generalist when what they really need is someone with a niche skill set. For example, if you’re a travel company, you want someone familiar with travel news, international jobs, and maybe even immigration laws.
Clearly stating your requirements will help you avoid the frustration of sifting through irrelevant applications. Be specific about the kind of content you need, and you’ll already have eliminated a lot of unnecessary noise from your search.
2. Use the Right Platforms
Now that you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to find your candidate. Fortunately, the digital age gives you plenty of options. Here are some great places to search for remote content creators:
- Freelance Marketplaces: Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer allow you to post job listings, browse portfolios, and review past client feedback. These sites are designed to connect employers with freelancers, and you can find content writers for any budget.
- Job Boards: Websites like We Work Remotely or Remote.co are specifically for remote jobs. Posting here means your listing will be seen by remote workers who are used to working independently and communicating virtually.
- LinkedIn: LinkedIn’s job board allows you to find more seasoned professionals. It’s also a great way to find writers who specialize in your industry by browsing their posts and articles.
By using these platforms strategically, you can focus on candidates who already know the ropes of remote work and are experienced in the kind of writing you need.
3. Evaluate Their Portfolio and Style
A writer’s portfolio tells you a lot about their abilities. It’s not just about whether they can string a few sentences together—it’s about how they write, the tone they use, and whether they match your brand voice. When reviewing portfolios, consider the following:
- Style Variety: Can they switch between different styles of writing? You might need a writer who can write friendly blog posts but also churn out more formal white papers.
- SEO Skills: SEO is non-negotiable for any content creator today. Make sure they know how to optimize for search engines—this could mean using the right keywords or structuring articles for easy readability.
- Industry Expertise: Are they familiar with your industry? A writer for a travel company should know the ins and outs of travel writing, from SEO strategies to immigration law updates.
Don’t be afraid to ask for a sample. Writers often have pieces in their portfolio that don’t match your exact needs, so a tailored writing sample can help you decide if they can meet your specific requirements.
4. Test Communication and Deadlines
Remote work requires strong communication skills, especially since you won’t be physically present to check on progress. A good writer should be responsive, clear, and punctual. Set expectations early on about how often you expect to hear from them, and make sure they’re comfortable with the tools you use (like Slack, Zoom, or Trello).
Equally important is their ability to meet deadlines. To avoid any future frustration, it’s a good idea to set a small initial project with a firm deadline. This way, you can gauge their reliability and time management without risking too much if things go wrong.
5. Long-Term Fit Matters
Finally, think about the long-term. Sure, you might just need someone for a one-off project right now, but if you find a great writer, it’s worth building a long-term relationship. Many companies save time and money by retaining their best freelancers for future work. A writer who knows your brand and can keep churning out consistent, high-quality content is a valuable asset.
Additionally, freelance writers often have access to networks of other creatives. They can recommend other experts like graphic designers or SEO specialists, saving you the hassle of doing a new search every time a project pops up.
Wrapping It Up
Finding remote content creators doesn’t have to be a headache. If you start by clearly defining your needs, searching in the right places, and evaluating candidates thoroughly, you’ll end up with a writer who can deliver the content your business needs to grow. The best part? Once you’ve found that person, you’ll have a trusted partner you can rely on for the long haul.
There are many more tips we could dive into, such as contract terms, setting pay expectations, and even understanding cultural differences when hiring remote workers from other countries. But those can be topics for another blog!
