7 Things to Look For in a Website Content Writing Service
You don’t have to be a good content writer to have a standout website. If you partner with the right website content writing service, most of the hard work will be done for you.
However, not all website content writing services are equal. A good outward appearance doesn’t make a provider capable of producing content that converts. If you want quality web content writing done right the first time, these seven indicators can be all the proof you need:
#1 – Good website content writing services don’t come cheap.
The age-old saying “You get what you pay for” isn’t an empty statement to justify prices. Quality content takes time, research, and a certain finesse to create copy that not only reads well, but works.
It’s in your best interest to check prices of other website content writing services to ensure you’re not getting a bottom barrel deal. (Just for frame of reference, most website content writing services charge between $0.06-$0.25 per word. Companies who charge less than that might sacrifice quality for cost.)
#2 – They ask questions to customize your website content.
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all content strategy. Your business and audience are unique, and your content should be created with these key points in mind.
If the website content writing service provider asks questions to understand your company, readers, and content goals, there’s a good chance the final product will be better aligned with your expectations. Bonus points if they contact you more than once with follow-up questions!
#3 – They know when to pull the “expert” card.
Some companies hinge themselves on providing the customer with precisely what they ask for. However, many customers who use website content writing services don’t always know the right questions to ask or may not understand their content’s potential.
Whether it’s suggesting a different keyword for SEO purposes or noting ways to improve your own ideas, good website content writing services go above and beyond writing copy. They understand that text is only part of the process and will search for ways to make the copy work with other elements to deliver the best possible results.
Remember, your service provider is the content expert. If they make suggestions to tweak your strategy, it’s usually because they have your best interests in mind, not just their own. If your website content writing service doesn’t make additional recommendations, they might not be fully invested in your success.
#4 – They understand do’s and don’ts of SEO.
Search engine optimization is chock full of rules, some of which can harm your score if you don’t follow them. While you don’t have to be an SEO expert, it’s a good idea for you to know the basic do’s and don’ts of SEO. This way, you’re able to determine if your website content writing service understands and plays by those rules to keep your website out of trouble.
Don’t hesitate to ask for samples of their previous work. Reputable companies will be more than willing to showcase their talents. Here are a few clues to look for:
- Leverages keywords throughout the copy and in the title and headers
- Uses internal and external links
- Link to other reputable or authoritative websites
- Includes H2s
- Adds or suggests images
- Offers a meta description
- Uses formatting techniques, such as bullet points and small text blocks
#5 – Real customers recommend them.
Although a company’s testimonials on their website may be cherry-picked, it doesn’t mean they’re invalid. It says a great deal about a writing service provider who is able to receive testimonials worthy enough to share on their website.
However, if you’re concerned about the validity of testimonials, see if there are any Google reviews or Facebook ratings on the company. People tend to be more forthcoming on external websites like these, which can give you an idea of what real customers think about a company.
You can go a step further and ask the website content writing service if they can share any references for you to check. Give these references a call and ask them if they would recommend the service provider.
#6 – Website content writing services should make your link strategy a top priority.
One of the biggest ways to get your content to rank higher is via backlinks, and good website content writing services know this.
Google and other search engines display results based on complex algorithms. The number of backlinks to a particular website or article signal to these algorithms that the content being linked to is legitimate, which will make the content appear more favorable to search engines.
When comparing website content writing services, ask about their strategy to help you build valuable backlinks. If they prioritize helping you establish quality links, you’ve found a company that’s worth its salt.
#7 – They guarantee your satisfaction.
Perhaps more important than any of the above telltale signs, good content services will make sure you are satisfied. Some companies charge for edits, even small ones, while others impose a short, strict deadline for you to request edits.
That’s not to say you can expect to publish your website content, then request a major rehaul three months later for free. However, most good content services will be happy to work with you to fine tune your content once they complete it until you’re satisfied, even if it takes a few tries to get it right.
One Final Thought on Website Content Writing Services
Choosing the right website content writing service for your company can be the best investment you make. After all, your content is what will drive users to your site, and without that web traffic, your business might not survive.
It’s important to work with a good content service provider, even if it means spending a little more to get better quality. Cheap content will never be better than content that works.
