If you’re working with a copywriter for the first time, or after a while, here is a set of basic FAQs to equip, inform and empower you.

Why do copywriters charge such a wide range of rates?

Copywriters tend to charge fees that reflect the value they offer.

More expensive copywriters typically have more experience, a history of successful projects or skills that set them apart. Rates may also reflect a copywriter’s level of demand or the specialised nature of their work.

What factors influence the cost of copywriting services?

Several factors play a role, including:

• The experience and expertise of the copywriter
• Project complexity and length
• Research requirements
• Meeting and consultation time
• Revision and editing requirements
• Turnaround time and deadlines
• Auxiliary tasks or unusual working methods

What is project pricing?

A copywriter who uses project pricing quotes a flat fee to cover all elements of a copywriting job, taking into account a wide range of factors (see below).

The copywriter and the client agree to revisit the fee if the work turns out to be different from the agreed scope.

Most copywriters ask for 50% of the project fee upfront, particularly when dealing with a new client.

What are the considerations involved in project pricing?

• The copywriter may need to help the client to develop the brief before starting.
• Planning and strategy may be required before writing begins.
• The copywriter may need to conduct interviews, undertake research or review collateral/media to gather source material.
• The copywriter may need to meet with or engage with the client on multiple occasions.
• The copywriter may need to collaborate with third parties: designers, web developers, PR agencies, social media managers, etc.
• Multiple rounds of revisions or amendments may be expected.
• Significant time may be needed for developing creative ideas, for creating an advertising slogan or for coming up with a product name.
• If a subject is highly technical, it may require additional effort.
• The client may indicate that the project’s importance to their business warrants more (or less) input from the copywriter.
• Website projects may include keyword research, SEO writing and/or developing meta data and micro-copy, in addition to standard web copywriting.
• Some parts of a project may need more attention because they will receive more visibility, like a website’s home page.
• The project may involve auxiliary tasks outside of writing, like image selection or uploading content.
• For large projects or recurring assignments, the copywriter may offer a discount.
• The copywriter may be required to work in atypical ways, like editing text in page layouts.

Can a copywriter help to develop a content strategy?

Yes. Many copywriters offer content strategy services, including planning, research, and structuring content to align with business goals.

What’s the difference between content and copy?

Content aims to inform, educate, entertain or engage the audience, helping to build relationships by providing value over time. Examples include blog posts, articles, e-books, videos, infographics and social media posts.

Content is often longer and more detailed and its primary objective is to build trust and authority rather than drive sales.

Copy is designed to persuade the audience to take a specific action, like making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter or clicking a link. It is sales-focused and supports direct sales efforts. Examples include digital or print advertisements, commercials, sales letters, billboards and website landing pages.

Copy is typically shorter and more concise, with a direct and persuasive tone that aims to convert the audience into customers.

How long does it take to complete a writing project?

Timelines depend on project scope and complexity. For example, a blog post may take a few days, while a full website re-write could take several weeks.

What if I need copy or content on an urgent basis?

Many copywriters offer expedited services for a premium. Discuss your timeline needs with the copywriter to see if they can accommodate urgent requests.

How do I ensure that I’m working with the right copywriter for my project?

Consider the following when choosing a copywriter:

• Experience and client history
• Specialisation and expertise
• Testimonials and reviews
• “Weight” (for example, senior or heavyweight copywriters are best suited to high-stakes projects that require advanced skills, specialist strengths, strategic insight and a mix of creativity and technical skills)
• Responsiveness and service

Can I work with the same copywriter on a regular/retainer basis?

Yes. Many copywriters offer retainer agreements, which provide a set number of hours or deliverables each month for a fixed fee. Retainers also give clients “front of the line” access to the copywriter and their services. This arrangement can ensure consistent support and be more cost-effective for ongoing needs.

What information should I include in a copywriting brief?

A brief should cover (but, of course, not be limited to):

• Project objectives and goals
• Target audience/s
• Key messages
• Primary call to action
• Tone and style preferences
• Specific requirements and deliverables
• Deadline
• Optional: Budget

Do copywriters offer revisions or changes to their copy?

Yes. Most copywriters include a set number of revisions in their quotes. Clarify the copywriter’s revision policy upfront to avoid misunderstandings.

How can a copywriter who’s not in my field write for me?

Professional copywriters excel at research. They dive deep into your industry, studying market trends, competitors and audience behaviour in order to write informed and relevant copy and content.

Copywriters will ask you detailed questions to help them understand your unique business needs, goals and target audience. As the process unfolds, they’ll share early drafts with you for review and feedback. This helps to ensure that the copy aligns with your expectations and accurately reflects industry specifics.

Copywriters can collaborate with subject matter experts (SMEs) to ensure accuracy and depth. They may interview SMEs to gather insights, before translating technical information into engaging copy or content.

Many copywriters have experience in fields related to yours or skills that transfer effectively into your environment. Their previous work can yield valuable insights and approaches that can be adapted to and used in your space.

At the same time, copywriters from outside your industry can offer a fresh perspective – bringing new ideas to differentiate your copy from your competitors’.

Copywriters prioritise understanding the audience’s needs and pain points. By focusing on what matters to your target audience, they seek to create messaging that resonates, regardless of the industry.

When working with a copywriter, how can I be sure that they are honouring my confidentiality?

Most professional copywriters include confidentiality clauses in their contracts or have stand-alone non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that they will sign – and ask you to counter-sign – to protect your business information and proprietary content.

And that’s it for this piece. Hopefully you now feel more informed about working with a copywriter. Drop us a line at any time if you’d like to discuss a piece of work, project or consultation requirement.