5 tips for hiring freelance SaaS writers

In this article, I will share five tips for hiring freelance SaaS writers. From defining your requirements to assessing their portfolio and expertise, I will guide you through the process of finding the perfect writer who can deliver outstanding results for your business. Let’s dive in and discover how you can secure top-notch content for your SaaS’ marketing site and take your business to new heights.

Avoiding common pitfalls when hiring freelance SaaS writers #

When it comes to hiring freelance SaaS writers, there are some common pitfalls that you should avoid. One of the biggest mistakes is hiring solely based on price. While you should stay within your budget, compromising on quality can have long-term consequences for your business. Instead, focus on finding a writer who has a deep understanding of your SaaS’ industry and can produce high-quality content that resonates with your (future) customers.

Another pitfall to avoid is not having a clear understanding of your own requirements. Before you start searching for a freelance SaaS writer, take the time to define your content needs and goals. Are you looking for blog posts, white-papers, or case studies? What topics do you want to cover? Have a clear vision of what you need and you’ll find a writer that can meet your expectations.

Also don’t overlook the importance of communication. Clear and effective communication is key to a successful working relationship with any freelancer, no less for a freelance writer. Make sure to establish regular check-ins, provide feedback, and address any concerns or questions that may arise. This will ensure that both parties are on the same page and working towards the same goals.

Why hire freelance SaaS writers? #

Before we dive into the tips for hiring freelance SaaS writers, let’s take a moment to understand why it’s beneficial to hire them in the first place. Freelance SaaS writers bring a unique set of skills and expertise to the table. They will take work away from your already busy schedule, so you can focus on other parts of the company. Additionally, they are experienced in creating content that is not only informative but also optimised for search engines, helping to drive organic traffic to your website.

Furthermore, hiring freelance SaaS writers allows you to tap into a pool of talent from around the world. You are not limited to hiring writers in your local area, but can instead choose from a global talent pool. This opens up opportunities to work with writers who have specific knowledge or experience in your target market or niche.

Pro-tip: SaaS Writer Hub is a side-project from Spinal, with freelance SaaS writers from around the world.

Tips for finding freelance SaaS writers #

Let’s explore some tips for finding the right ones for your business. The first step is to start with a thorough search. There are various platforms (cough SaaS Writer Hub cough) and job boards where you can find freelance SaaS writers. Take the time to review their profiles, portfolios, and feedback from previous clients. Look for writers who have experience in your industry and a track record of delivering high-quality work.

Next, consider reaching out to your network for recommendations. Ask for referrals from colleagues, industry professionals, or fellow SaaS founders Personal recommendations can often lead to finding hidden gems that may not be easily discoverable through online platforms.

Once you have a shortlist of potential writers, it’s important to assess their skills and expertise. Look for writers who have a strong command of your preferred language, excellent research skills, and the ability to write in a tone you are looking for. Additionally, pay attention to their understanding of SEO and their ability to optimise content for search engines. This will ensure that the content they produce not only engages existing readers but also will be found by new readers (and future customers).

Evaluating the skills and experience of freelance SaaS writers #

When evaluating the skills and experience of freelance SaaS writers, there are a few key factors to consider. First, review their portfolio to get a sense of their writing style and the types of projects they have worked on in the past. Look for diversity in their portfolio, as this indicates their ability to adapt to different topics and industries.

Then assess their knowledge of your SaaS’ industry. Look for writers who have a deep understanding of your audience, specific tech, tools and goals. They should be able to demonstrate their expertise through well-researched and insightful content.

It’s also important to assess their ability to meet deadlines and work within your project requirements. Look for writers who have a track record of delivering projects on time and who are responsive to feedback and revisions. Good communication skills are essential for a successful working relationship.

Consider conducting a test assignment or requesting writing samples specific to your industry or niche. This will give you a firsthand look at their writing skills and their ability to produce content that aligns with your brand voice and target audience. Make sure to pay for any test assignment they are doing!

Setting clear expectations and communication with freelance SaaS writers #

Once you have found a freelance SaaS writer who meets your requirements, it’s important to set clear expectations and establish effective communication channels. Clearly define the scope of work, project timelines, and any specific guidelines or requirements. This will ensure that both parties are aligned and working towards the same goals.

Establishing a communication plan is crucial for a successful working relationship. Determine the preferred method of communication, whether it’s email, video calls, or using the collaboration features of Spinal. Provide clear feedback, and address any questions or concerns. Open and transparent communication will help to build trust and ensure that the writer understands your expectations.

Ensuring quality and consistency in freelance SaaS writing #

Quality and consistency are key for a solid content marketing plan. To ensure that the content produced by your freelance writer meets your standards, it’s important to establish a quality control process. This can include reviewing each piece of content before it is published, and providing detailed feedback. Tip: you can use the workflow feature of Spinal for this.

Consider creating a style guide or brand guidelines that outline your preferred writing style, tone, and formatting. This will help to maintain consistency across all your content and ensure that it aligns with your brand identity. Another tip: you can add those in Spinal!

Pricing and budget considerations when hiring freelance SaaS writers #

When it comes to pricing and budget considerations, it’s important to strike a balance between quality and cost. While it may be tempting to opt for the lowest-priced writer, keep in mind that you often get what you pay for. Investing in high-quality content will yield better results in the long run.

When discussing pricing with freelance SaaS writers, consider factors such as the complexity of the project, the writer’s level of expertise, and the time required to complete the work. Be upfront about your budget and negotiate a fair rate that reflects the value you expect to receive.

Building a long-term relationship with freelance SaaS writers #

Building a long-term relationship with freelance SaaS writers can be mutually beneficial for both parties. By nurturing these relationships, you can create a reliable and consistent source of high-quality content for your SaaS company. Consider offering steady work, providing regular feedback and recognition, and showing appreciation for their contribution to your business. This will help to foster loyalty and encourage the writer to go above and beyond to deliver outstanding results.

Final thoughts #

Hiring freelance SaaS writers can be a game-changer for your SaaS company. By following these five tips, you can find the perfect writer who understands your industry, produces high-quality content, and delivers outstanding results. Remember to avoid common pitfalls, define your requirements, assess skills and experience, establish clear expectations, ensure quality and consistency, consider pricing and budget, and build long-term relationships. With the right freelance SaaS writer on your side, you can take your business to new heights and establish your brand as a thought leader in your SaaS’ industry.

SaaS Writer Hub is a side project built at Spinal.

Written by July Forand

Published: 20 July 2023