F.A.Q.
I need a copywriter. Why Sealy Communications?
Three words: Storytelling, Precision, Deadlines. First and foremost, I’m a storyteller. Today’s reader is bombarded with text — emails, text messages, status updates, news, advertisements, logos, billboards, flyers — and to cut through the deluge of content you really need to capture the reader’s attention with something interesting they can relate to.
Secondly, I write with the fine-tuned precision of an expert sharpshooter. I haven’t forgotten the lost art of spelling, and I can spot the dangling modifier or the unclear antecedent among a sea of dependent clauses. Also, I’ve worked with enough graphic designers to appreciate how text gets laid out. You won’t find extraneous characters or bizarre formatting in my text. Everything I turn in is clean and ready for layout.
Finally, I started copywriting for a newspaper, where deadlines are non-negotiable. If you hire me for a job, I will turn that job in on time and within budget.
I’m interested in your services. How do we get started?
Great! The next step would be to contact me with the details of your project. What do you need done? When is your deadline? Do you have background materials, such as testimonials or previous ads or brochures, or will I be doing the background research?
Based on this information, I can provide you a rate. I do have a fee schedule with ballpark estimates, and once I learn the specifics of your job I can send you a formal quote and letter of agreement. Then it’s time to get started!
What is your process?
Good customer service starts with good communication, so I start by listening to your thoughts about the project. Who is your audience? What are you trying to accomplish? How does this fit within your larger strategy? I’ll gather the background materials and take some time to educate myself about your business and your customer.
Depending on the job, I might send over some spec copy early on — usually just a headline and a paragraph or two — to give you an idea of where I’m going. Doing so ensures we’re on the same page, and can save some revision efforts down the line.
By deadline, I’ll deliver clean, proofread copy for your review. In my project fee, I include two revisions free of charge, provided the requests come within 30 days. Additionally, I can look over the copy once it’s placed on the page for one last proofread and to check for copy that may have dropped off during the design process.
How much does it cost?
I usually charge a flat fee per project, though I will work hourly for certain projects, such as proofreading or copy editing. For select long-term clients, I am available to work hourly or on a retainer basis. If you contact me with the details of your project, I can offer you a quote or send you my fee schedule. In accordance with industry norms, I do request payment of 50% up front for larger projects, and upon delivery I’ll send an invoice of net 30 days.
How long will the writing take?
My standard turnaround is two weeks after I receive a letter of agreement. I can usually turn around short editing jobs in a couple of days. Lengthier projects may take longer than two weeks, but all deadlines will be written into the contract, and I never miss a deadline. Occasionally, I will accept a rush turnaround for an additional fee, but I won’t take on a project if I don’t feel I can deliver top-notch, polished prose by your deadline.
Do you also do graphic design? Web design?
No. While I have some experience with both, my expertise is in writing. I’m happy to work with your designer so that the copy and the design work seamlessly toward the same end. If you’re looking for the complete package, I can recommend some excellent designers, or I can subcontract out the design work for an additional fee.
What’s the next step?
Simply contact me with the details of your project, and I can deliver a no-cost estimate.
