165: How Do I Write for Clients?

Before you write for clients, you have to learn first the steps you need to take to start the work. Here are some tips from Janine!

Key points in this episode:

• Importance of setting up a discovery call
• Things you need from the clients after the discovery call and before you write for clients
• What is a brand guide or style guide?
• Importance of having a brand guide
• Elements of a brand guide
• Janine is sharing a handy questionnaire for your new clients to help you visualize your client’s brand
• Determining your client’s target audience and direct competitors

What is a style guide?

When you first talk to your client, you’re going to want to ask for a brand guide and a style guide.

A style guide is like a policy but if your clients don’t have one they need a questionnaire.

When you receive the brand guide look at it.

But if they don’t have one, let’s help them create one by sending over a questionnaire. This is a template you might want to keep handy because this won’t be the last time you need it. Ask them questions like:

• What are some words to stay away from?
• If your customer was in front of you, what would they look like and how would they act? This will help you visualize the audience
• Who are your direct competitors?

Why do we want to know their direct competitors? Because, as a writer, you don’t want to cite direct competitors in your work.

Also, take time to look at your client’s past work. Check out the language, the tense, etc. This will help you write directly for that client.

If you want more information and want to start your biz – check out my free download Savvy nurse writer 3questions

Do you have a hard time starting your own freelance writing business because you aren’t sure if it is right for you? Starting on June 12, sign-ups for the upcoming webinar on June 22 at 8 pm EST will be open! I am inviting you to join me on my FREE webinar, 4 Misconceptions About Freelance Writing Businesses Nurses Need to Know by registering on this link: bit.ly/junewebinar2022.