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Good content converts web visitors into customers and deepens their engagement with your brand. By combining market research, SEO, and persuasive techniques, content writers expand your message and drive increased sales. Therefore, hiring talented content writers can significantly increase lead generation and help grow your business.
This guide covers everything from finding the right writer to managing them effectively, ensuring you get the most value for your investment.
Growing need for content writers
The demand for skilled content writers has surged in recent years, with an annual growth of 5% in content writing jobs. This is because 53% of shoppers research online before deciding. Hence, companies hire writers to target new customers and retain old ones.
AI tools also reshape content creation, especially in increasing productivity and quickly generating web content. Tools like Jasper and Copy.ai have become valuable in content writers' toolkits to speed up writing and Perplexity in finding valuable insights. As a result, marketers who use AI in content creation see a 70% increase in their ROI.
Several industries have seen a sharp rise in demand for content writers. For example, SaaS and tech companies need technical writers to create product guides and educational materials. E-commerce businesses depend on product descriptions, buyer guides, and blogs to drive sales and improve customer experience. Healthcare and wellness organizations require accurate content to educate patients, promote services, and build authority in their field.
Why hiring the right content writer matters
Good content attracts customers, builds brand trust, and beats the competition. However, writing articles without professional help leads to diverted focus, inability to scale, and creative block.
Content writers know how to write engaging stories, simplify complex topics, and bring personality to your content. Businesses need writers who can adapt their style across formats and maintain brand voice, from blog posts and long articles to marketing materials like brochures, product descriptions, and social media posts.
While AI can assist in brainstorming and speed up the writing process, writers add the elements of personality and authority to their content. This results in better visibility, customer trust, and industry influence.
Types of content writers you can hire
There are several types of content writers, each specializing in different forms of writing to meet specific business needs. Below is a breakdown of the most common content-writing services.
Blog and article writers
Blog writers are ideal for businesses needing SEO-friendly content, product reviews, thought leadership pieces, or educational resources for their audience.
Website content writers
Website content writers handle homepages, product descriptions, and landing page content, focusing on user experience (UX) to help convert visitors into customers. Companies typically hire them when building new sites, rebranding, or updating their web presence.
SEO writers
SEO (search engine optimization) writers know keyword research, on-page SEO practices, and how to write headlines and meta descriptions that appeal to search engines.
Social media writers
Social media writers craft short, engaging, and shareable content for platforms like Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. They tailor content for each platform to engage its unique audience while ensuring it remains consistent with the brand's voice.
Technical writers
Technical writers are experts in writing product manuals, white papers, and technical blog posts about complex topics. Software companies and businesses need technical writing services to explain technical information clearly to customers or employees.
Email and sales copywriters
Email copywriters understand sales psychology and know how to guide readers through the buying process. Companies in e-commerce, software, and other industries that rely on email marketing often hire these writers.
Ghostwriters
Ghostwriters are skilled at matching the voice and tone of the person or brand they’re writing for. Thought leaders, executives, and businesses hire ghostwriters when they need compelling content but prefer to attribute it to themselves.
Key steps to finding and hiring the best content writer
Finding the right content writer requires a clear process to ensure they meet your business needs. The following steps will help you structure your hiring process and increase your chances of finding a high-quality writer.
Step 1: Identify your requirements
Before hiring, know exactly what kind of content you need. Decide if you want a versatile writer or someone specialized in SEO or email writing. Additionally, decide whether you need a freelance writer for a short-term project or a full-time content strategist.
Step 2: Write a clear job description
A strong job description is necessary to find writers that align with your company's values. List the tasks, skills, and experience required. Include any specific knowledge needed, such as expertise with a content management system (CMS) or industry. Request writing samples or a portfolio to guide applicants on what to submit.
Step 3: Find content writers
After writing the job description, post it on popular platforms like Arc, Upwork, or LinkedIn. Use a clear title to attract the right candidates and improve your chances of finding a good match.
Step 4: Screen candidates' portfolios and writing samples
As applications come in, closely examine each candidate’s portfolio and samples. This shows their writing style, flexibility, and quality. Check if their work is engaging, well-researched, and error-free. Ensure their writing aligns with your brand’s tone and business needs.
Step 5: Interview candidates to assess their fit
Once you’ve shortlisted candidates, interview them. Assess their writing skills and ask about their content creation process and marketing strategy. Have them explain their workflow from research to final editing. Ask about their experience with SEO, CMS tools, and other relevant skills.
Step 6: Finalize the contract and onboard new hire
When you find the right candidate, discuss payment and finalize the terms. Decide whether they’ll work on a project basis or as a regular employee. Set clear expectations for tasks, deadlines, and communication. Ensure both sides agree on all details before hiring them.
Key skills and qualifications to look for when hiring a content writer
Good writers possess a mix of technical and soft skills to deliver the best results. Below are the key skills to look for when hiring a content writer.
Technical skills
SEO knowledge: Writers should understand SEO best practices, including keyword research, on-page optimization, and link-building. They need to use keywords naturally so the content reads smoothly and increases search rankings.
Adaptability across formats: A good writer can adjust their style to fit different formats like blog posts, website copy, social media updates, and emails. They should feel comfortable writing for different platforms and audiences.
Research and fact-checking: Strong research skills are essential. Writers should check facts from reliable sources and verify any data or claims they include to provide valuable insights into their content.
Consistent brand voice: Writers must match a company’s voice and message. Their writing should reflect the brand’s tone, values, and audience, maintaining a consistent image.
Familiarity with AI tools: Writers should know how to use AI tools for content ideas, optimization, and grammar checks while adding a human touch.
Editing and proofreading: Writers need strong editing and proofreading skills to fix errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style, ensuring the content is polished.
Industry experience: Depending on your field, hiring a writer with relevant experience, such as a wellness writer for health-related content, can be a big advantage. They’ll understand your audience, trends, and language, making their content more credible and engaging.
Soft skills
Communication: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential. Writers should express ideas clearly, ask questions when needed, and make changes based on feedback.
Time management: Writers must manage their time well to meet deadlines. Planning and delivering high-quality work on schedule is critical.
Attention to detail: A sharp eye for detail ensures accuracy in facts, formatting, and overall consistency throughout their writing.
Creativity: Skilled writers produce fresh ideas and engaging content that captures attention while adhering to guidelines and best practices.
Collaboration: Writers often collaborate with others, like designers or subject matter experts. They need to communicate well and incorporate feedback to improve their work.
Adaptability: The content marketing landscape changes frequently. Writers should be open to learning new techniques, tools, and strategies to stay effective.
How to write a content writer job description that attracts top talent
A clear job post helps you filter out unqualified candidates and find writers who match your needs. The following guidelines will help you write a job description that draws in top talent and sets clear expectations.
Guidelines for writing a content writer job description
To attract the best candidates, a job description for a content writer should be clear and appealing. Follow these steps:
Be specific about the role: Clearly define the type of content writer you need, whether an SEO, website copywriter, or social media writer. This helps attract candidates with the right expertise.
Outline key responsibilities: List the main tasks the writer will perform, like creating blog posts, product descriptions, or social media content. This gives candidates a clear idea of their daily responsibilities.
Highlight required skills: Mention the essential skills, such as strong writing and editing abilities, SEO knowledge, research skills, and experience with tools like CMS.
Mention preferred experience: Specify the level of expertise required, whether entry-level or more advanced. If industry-specific knowledge is important, be sure to include that.
Describe the company culture: Share your company’s mission, values, and work environment. This helps candidates determine if they’re a good fit.
Outline the application process: Clearly explain how candidates should apply and what materials to submit, such as a cover letter, writing samples, or portfolio.
Offer competitive compensation: While you don’t need to include an exact salary, mention that compensation will be based on skills and experience.
Example content writer job post
Content writer - [Company Name]
We are looking for a skilled content writer with a proven track record of writing web content to join our marketing team. You’ll be responsible for creating engaging and SEO-friendly content in various formats, including blog posts, website copy, product descriptions, and social media posts.
Responsibilities:
- Develop content ideas and create content calendar that aligns with our brand voice and resonates with our audience
- Write clear, concise, and structured content that follows SEO best practices
- Collaborate with the marketing team to ensure content supports the overall content strategy
- Edit, proofread, and optimize content for accuracy, grammar, and consistency
- Edit existing content for increased organic traffic and readability
- Stay informed on industry trends, best practices, and content marketing strategies
Requirements:
- 3+ years of experience as a content writer or in a similar role
- Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
- Deep understanding of SEO writing and content optimization
- Ability to adapt writing style for different formats and audiences
- Familiarity with content management systems and Microsoft Word
- Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field
- Strong research and fact-checking skills
- Strong time management and organizational skills
Preferred qualifications:
- Experience in [specific industry or niche]
- Experience in maintaining and distributing marketing materials
- Knowledge of [relevant tools or software]
- Understanding of content marketing strategies and analytics
If you're a talented content writer excited to join a dynamic team, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your resume, cover letter, and writing samples to [email address] or apply through our website at [website link].
We offer competitive pay and benefits, along with opportunities for professional growth. [Company Name] is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Questions to ask when interviewing a content writer
Asking the right questions will help you assess a writer’s technical skills, adaptability, and ability to manage content challenges. Below are the most important questions to ask when interviewing content writers.
1. What is your process for creating engaging content? Can you explain how you organize an article or blog post?
This question shows how the writer structures their work. A good candidate will describe a clear process that includes planning, research, drafting, and editing. They should explain how they write engaging content, especially when simplifying complex topics.
2. How do you measure the success of the content you create? What tools or metrics do you use to track performance?
This question reveals if the writer is results-oriented and understands how content impacts business goals. Top candidates will mention tools like Google Analytics, Ahrefs, or SEMrush and metrics like page views, bounce rates, or time on page.
3. How do you adjust your writing style to match a company’s brand voice and tone? How do you maintain consistency across multiple clients?
This question tests adaptability and attention to detail. Strong candidates will explain how they analyze a brand’s tone and target audience and keep the style consistent across projects. They may mention using style guides or notes to ensure their writing aligns with the brand's voice.
4. How have AI tools impacted your SEO research and content creation approach? Can you give examples of how you’ve used AI in your workflow while maintaining high-quality, SEO-friendly content?
This question gauges the writer’s ability to balance technology with authentic writing. A good candidate will explain how they use AI tools like ChatGPT or Jasper to improve efficiency while ensuring their content remains unique, well-researched, and SEO-friendly.
5. How do you handle deadlines when working on multiple content pieces?
This question tests time management skills. Look for candidates who use tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Calendar to stay organized. A solid answer will show they prioritize tasks effectively and handle tight deadlines, demonstrating they’re reliable and efficient.
Best platforms and websites to hire content writers
There are several platforms to help you find skilled content writers, each with its strengths. Here’s a breakdown of the best places to hire content writers.
Arc
Arc connects businesses with freelance content writers worldwide. Its advanced vetting process ensures the quality and expertise of freelance content writers. The platform’s HireAI tool speeds up the hiring process, making it possible to hire freelance content writers within moments. Arc also offers clear pricing and easy collaboration tools, making it suitable for businesses of any size.
Upwork
Upwork is a popular freelancing platform with many professional freelance writers. You can filter candidates by skills and experience, but review portfolios and feedback carefully. The bidding system can help you find competitive rates, but thorough evaluation is essential to ensure quality work.
Fiverr
Fiverr provides a large pool of freelance content writers offering various content writing services at low prices, making it a good choice for businesses on a budget. However, the quality of work can vary, so it’s important to read reviews and vet writers carefully to ensure you get the content you need.
LinkedIn is a professional networking site where you can find content writers. You can post job listings or contact writers directly based on the writing services you need. While LinkedIn provides access to experienced professionals, the hiring process can take longer than that of freelance platforms.
ProBlogger job board
ProBlogger is a niche platform for hiring blog writers. However, the candidate pool is smaller than that of larger freelancing sites, and careful review of applicants is required to ensure they meet your needs.
Specialized content writing agencies
Agencies offer reliable, high-quality content but are more expensive. You may also have less control over the writing process than hiring freelancers. Research agencies to find one that fits your budget and project goals.
How much does it cost to hire a content writer?
Cost of hiring a content writer can range from affordable options for basic blog posts to higher fees for specialized content. Here’s a breakdown of typical pricing for different content-writing services.
Blog and article writing
For standard blog posts (500-800 words), beginner writers may charge $0.05-$0.10 per word, while experienced writers charge $0.10-$0.20 per word. Long-form articles (over 1,500 words) with in-depth research can cost $0.15-$0.30 per word from seasoned writers. Specialized technical content on complex topics may range from $0.20-$0.50 per word.
Website copywriting
Landing page copywriting typically costs $200-$500 per page from an experienced writer. Depending on complexity, E-commerce product descriptions range from $50-$200 per product. Professional homepage or about page copy can cost $500-$2,000.
SEO content writing
For SEO-optimized blog posts, rates start around $0.08-$0.15 per word from freelance writers. Advanced SEO writing may cost $0.15-$0.30 per word from specialists.
Newsletter writing
Freelance writers typically charge $100-$500 per email newsletter. For email sequences or drip campaigns, costs can range from $1,000-$5,000 for professionally written content.
Freelance vs. full-time writers
Freelance content writers charge per project or by the hour ($30-$100+ per hour). In-house writers earn average salaries of $40,000-$70,000 annually, plus benefits. Agencies may charge $1,000-$5,000+ per month for consistent, high-quality content.
Common mistakes to avoid when hiring a content writer
Avoiding mistakes when hiring content writers can significantly improve your marketing success and business revenue. Here are the critical mistakes to avoid to increase your chances of hiring a skilled writer.
Focusing only on the cost
While staying within budget is important, choosing the cheapest option can cost more in the long run. Inexperienced or low-cost writers may deliver poor-quality content that doesn't engage your audience or achieve your marketing goals. This wastes time, money, and effort. Focus on the value a writer brings by reviewing their portfolio, expertise, and ability to create high-quality content.
Lack of clarity in the job description
A vague job description can attract the wrong candidates, making hiring a content writer more difficult. Clearly define the role, required skills, and expected deliverables so applicants understand what's needed. A clear job description helps filter out unqualified candidates and draws in writers who are a better fit.
Skipping the portfolio review
A writer’s portfolio reveals their skill, style, and range. If you don’t review their samples, you might hire someone whose work doesn't align with your brand or audience. Carefully review portfolios to ensure the writer produces engaging, well-researched, and error-free content that suits your needs.
Overlooking industry experience
Although many writers can adapt to different industries, hiring one with experience in your field can save time. Writers familiar with your industry’s terms, trends, and audience needs can create relevant content faster, reducing the need for revisions or extensive instructions.
Neglecting cultural fit
Content writers help shape your brand’s voice and values. If a writer doesn’t align with your company’s culture, their content may not match your brand’s personality or mission. During the interview, assess their technical skills and how well they align with your brand’s goals and target audience.
Final tips for successfully hiring and managing content writers
Hiring a content writer begins with setting clear expectations and sharing detailed brand and style guides so they understand your tone, voice, and formatting preferences. Work with your writer to establish realistic deadlines that allow for quality work. Provide constructive feedback, pointing out strengths and areas for improvement to help them meet your standards.
Use platforms like Arc to hire content writers while avoiding common hiring mistakes and creating a smooth onboarding process to ensure the success of your new hire. With the right tools, open communication, and clear expectations, you’ll hire a content writer who understands your business and works toward its goals.
