|
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Why do I need a professional to do my business
writing? Can’t I do it myself?
A: There’s more to good writing than
getting the spelling and punctuation right (ask any publisher!).
And even if you can do your own writing, doesn’t
your business deserve the expert attention you could be paying
to its central mission?
Q: Do you really think anyone notices a few typos?
A: They definitely will notice—probably the hard way—if
the typo is in your contact information, seminar dates, or
any other information they need to act on! Even if a typo
is so insignificant that only one person notices it, do you
really want anyone doubting you do a thorough job
in everything?
Q: What if I can’t afford to hire a writer?
A: Spread the Word prides itself on reasonable rates (see
below). In any case, good writing is an investment, not a
luxury. One way or another, you’ll be spending money
to get your name before the public; isn’t it worth a
few hundred dollars to ensure people associate your name with
professionally written, interesting materials?
Q: How long does it take to complete a project?
A: Work times vary from one week for a press release, to several
months for a corporate history or other book-length project.
When working on a longer project, we will update you every
week or two.
Q: Why should a one-page press release take a
whole week?
A: Writing is only the first step; the release needs thorough
editing for maximum effectiveness. We try to allow a week,
or five work days, for the piece to “cool” so
the writer/editor can look at it with fresh eyes.
Q: What if I really need a piece finished by
tomorrow?
A: If we can squeeze you in, we will—but a “rush
job” fee may be added for fewer than three work days.
And we can’t guarantee the results will be as high-quality
as with a job that waits for thorough editing.
Q: What are your rates for an ordinary job?
A: Generally $1/word for writing or heavy editing. Proofreading
and light editing cost 25 to 50 percent less; however, we
reserve the right to ask for the higher rate, or refuse the
job altogether, if the client asks for light editing on a
piece that really needs a heavy edit. (This happens more frequently
than you might think; few people are good judges of their
own writing.)
Charitable projects or those done for nonprofits may cost
less, depending on their applicability as volunteer or tax-deductible
time.
If multiple edits or meetings are required before a piece
reaches final form, the rate may be adjusted to allow for
extra labor. Ten to 50 percent down payment may be required
up front.
Q: What if I’m not satisfied with the results?
A: We don’t guarantee results in the sense of “this
advertisement will bring you x new customers or your
money back.” We do guarantee readable, typo-free
writing, and will correct errors and make small adjustments
at no charge. We will also give fair hearing to any expression
of dissatisfaction. However, we reserve the right to decline
or charge extra for major rewrites, especially any due to
last-minute changes of mind on the client's part.
Q: Do you do graphic design and printing as well?
A: Spread the Word handles basic design matters—fonts
and typefaces, columns, colors, clip art. If you need anything
more complicated—such as a new logo for your company—or
if you want the materials printed as well as written, we can
recommend other professionals to carry on where we leave off.
Any other questions? Go to the Contact
Us page.
|
