Comments on: Do You Need A Contract For A Quick Copywriting Job?

By: Heather Lloyd-Martin

Heather Lloyd-Martin — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 20:11:58 +0000

Cathy, thanks so much for your comment! Something to consider – some companies use ebooks as lead generation. So, they wouldn’t be selling the books…but they would benefit from prospects downloading the information (and eventually signing up for services/buying something.) It’s all about selling the value… :)

Have a fantastic day!

By: Cathy Goodwin

Cathy Goodwin — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 19:05:30 +0000

I’d like to know more about the copywriter who ghostwrites ebooks – I’ve got a ton of my own ebooks and could do this. I wonder how she charges, as clients need to sell many copies to earn back her fees!

By: Heather Lloyd-Martin

Heather Lloyd-Martin — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 20:53:23 +0000

In reply to Kevin Carlton.

Exactly. Your terms are YOUR terms. Clients don’t get to dictate that – and if they try, it’s time to run fast and never return…

By: Kevin Carlton

Kevin Carlton — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 17:48:56 +0000

Heather,
I’m currently moving towards written agreements with all of my clients. So your post is great reassurance to me that I’m doing the right thing.
I’ve noticed that certain clients, who’ve never had a contract with me, have tended to think that it is they who wholly and exclusively dictate my terms of service.
This is not a situation I’d like to be in again, whatever the size of the job.

By: Heather Lloyd-Martin

Heather Lloyd-Martin — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 22:13:44 +0000

In reply to Brandon N.

@Brandon, EXCELLENT point! If you don’t stick to your contract, you’re sending the message that the contract is “no big deal” and not enforceable. I’ve talked to a few copywriters who have “bent the rules” for folks, only to get burned in the end.

Thanks for that super-smart reminder!

By: Brandon N

Brandon N — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 14:36:29 +0000

Thanks, Heather, for this very important post. I would add that on a first-encounter, it will be a much smoother process to have itemized and solidified your services, then work with a contract based on those services. This way, you can tailor any specifics to that job while still feeling confident that you have everything in there you need. And it’s definitely a good idea to work the agreement over with your attorney to make sure you’ve covered your bases.

Oh, and the other important thing: your contract means nothing if you don’t stick by it! So, don’t be afraid to (politely) refer to it if necessary when on a project.