Any questions?
Here are some of the basics. Get in touch if I can further explain any part of my process that's not covered below.
How do we begin?
Contact me so we can talk for a bit, and I can learn about your project. If you are unsure of where to start or of what you need, I can help determine that,
whether it's a brand or campaign identity, website content, marketing collateral, or building a social media following... (This initial conversation is complimentary, of course!) I can outline a plan and assist in determining your deliverables — whether or not you ultimately end up working with me.
After we discuss your project a little, including some logistics — such as whether I will need to interview sources, contribute to conference call(s), or visit you on site — I will devise a quote for you which will include a timeline that will let you know when you'll have a draft in your inbox.
Do I sign a contract?
If you decide we're a go, I will email my standard agreement (it’s not that scary, I promise), tailored to your individual needs.
Note that some clients have asked me to sign their written agreements as well — such as non-disclosures or non-competes — and I am happy to honor such requests.
What happens next?
Once we've both signed the agreement, I am available to have more in-depth phone or email discussion(s) at your convenience. You will present any relevant background materials, and we'll discuss concepts like messaging (e.g., what tone you're going for). And I'll ask you to send me over some samples of things that you like so I can get a better sense of your desired style.
From there, I will begin working, and I am always available to collaborate and answer any questions you have throughout the project timeline. I will complete your project according to the deadline we set.
What do you charge?
I usually devise a flat project fee based on the type of work required and an estimated timeline. This fee is not an estimate — It's what you'll pay, in full, for the project. If, for whatever reason, you are more comfortable working together on an hourly basis, that's fine, too. My hourly rates for editing/writing begin at $95/hour. Again, our work agreement will be tailored to the specific details of your project, and will clearly outline the scope of work, deliverables, timeline, and fees (including maximums/limits, etc.).
Usually, for first-time clients, I require a percentage of the project fee up front, with the balance due upon project completion. (And you should know that I tend to offer discounted project fees for trusted clients.)
How long do you take?
Unfortunately, I cannot possibly answer this question blind. It would be irresponsible for me to state otherwise.
Please reach out so I can learn about your project, and I can help determine your deliverables. Upon our first discussion, I will help craft a timeline which takes into account your level of urgency. I will let you know up front about my availability, and if I cannot take something on, I will always offer quality referrals. If we do work together, know that as a former managing editor, I am a taskmaster and a stickler for deadlines. I will meet yours.
What if I don't like what you send?
While I really do not believe that that will happen (heh?), I always allow for revisions! Generally, I like to give at least one round of complimentary adjustments to any project, and additional rounds will be billed at an hourly rate, unless otherwise agreed to.
How do I pay you?
Payments can be made via check or online payment methods, such as PayPal. I also charge 1.5% interest after 30 days of an unpaid invoice unless otherwise noted in your written agreement.