How to Hire a Freelance Writer You’ll Actually Want to Work With

You know you need a freelance writer. The brief is half-written, the deadline is creeping, and you’re tired of staring at a blinking cursor.

But here’s the thing: not all writers are the same. And hiring the wrong one for you can mean missed deadlines, misaligned tone, and the kind of revisions that make everyone lose steam. So how do you hire a writer you’ll actually want to work with, the kind who just gets it, writes well, and makes your job easier, not harder?

Here's what to look for:

1. They ask smart questions up front.

A good freelance writer doesn’t just nod and take notes, smiling mysteriously. They ask about your audience, goals, tone, format, and distribution. They want to understand what success looks like before they start typing. If someone says, “Yep, got it!” without digging deeper - 🚩.

2. Their portfolio shows range and voice.

Can they write sharp copy and thoughtful longform? Can they sound like themselves and like you? Look for a portfolio that shows flexibility. Bonus points if their site or blog makes you think, “I like how this person thinks.”

3. They know how to take feedback - and what to do with it!

Every project needs revision. The better writers ask clarifying questions, adapt quickly, and know how to defend (or revise) a line with grace. No one wants too much ego.

4. They’re as clear in communication as they are in writing.

Can they meet deadlines? Respond to emails in a clear way? Set boundaries without ghosting? These things matter just as much as good writing. You’re hiring a professional, not a creative bohemian.

5. You actually like talking to them.

Trust your gut here. You don’t have to be best friends, but if the energy is weird, strained, or confusing, it’s unlikely to dramatically improve. Working with a writer should feel easy, not exhausting.

TL; DR?

The right freelance writer will listen well, think clearly, write smart, and make your ideas sharper. They’ll leave your content better than they found it - and make you look good in the process!

Need a writer like that? Let’s talk.