The Ultimate Framework for Finding, Evaluating, and Hiring the Perfect Blog Writers
Hiring skilled and reliable writers for your blog can be challenging, but Benji Hyam, blog manager at Grow & Convert, has developed a proven framework through trial and error. This step-by-step process ensures you find the right writers who understand your vision and deliver quality content consistently.
Step 1: Posting Your Job Offer
Start by posting your job listing on platforms that are proven to attract talented writers:
- ProBlogger: A go-to platform for freelance writers specializing in blogs.
- AngelList: Ideal for startups looking for content creators.
- LinkedIn: A great place to connect with professionals across industries.
Step 2: Provide Candidates With a Comprehensive Overview
Once candidates apply, send them a document outlining everything they need to know about your blog. Include:
- Your Business Model: Help them understand the bigger picture.
- Target Market: Who you’re speaking to and why.
- The Story Behind Your Brand: Share why the company was founded and what drives its mission.
- Products/Services: Detail what you offer and how it benefits customers.
- Vision for Your Blog: Explain where you see the blog going and its role in the business.
- Intended Readers: Define your audience.
- Content Style: Types of content you’re looking for, such as how-to guides, thought leadership, or case studies.
- Blog Goals: Are you aiming to drive traffic, generate leads, or build authority?
- Examples of Writing You Admire: Share links to writing samples that capture the tone, style, or quality you want.
- Tone and Length: Specify the desired tone (e.g., conversational, professional) and typical post length.
This transparency ensures that candidates understand your expectations and helps weed out those who don’t align with your vision.
Step 3: Test Their Initiative and Creativity
For those still interested, test their ability to work independently:
- Assignment: Ask them to pitch three story headlines along with a one-sentence description for each.
- This tests whether they can come up with ideas that align with your brand and audience without heavy direction.
Step 4: Test Their Writing Skills
If their headline pitches resonate, take the next step:
- Pick one headline and ask them to write a test post.
- Offer the following conditions:
- If you don’t like the post, they are free to use it elsewhere.
- If you like it, pay them $150–$250 for the post.
This approach ensures both parties are invested while giving candidates a fair opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Step 5: Establish Expectations for Publishing
Writers who pass the writing test become contributors. Here’s how to set clear expectations:
- Flexible Posting Frequency: Writers can post as often or as little as they want, but they should provide an estimated timeline for each post.
- Pay Per Post: Avoid hourly rates; pay $150–$250 per post based on quality and length.
Step 6: Cultivate Ownership Through Transparency
Share metrics related to their posts, such as:
- Views, shares, and engagement.
- How the post contributed to blog goals (e.g., traffic spikes, lead generation).
This fosters a sense of ownership and pride, encouraging writers to deliver their best work consistently.
Why This Framework Works
- Transparency Builds Trust:
- Clear communication about expectations and goals ensures candidates know what they’re signing up for.
- Quality Over Quantity:
- A meticulous screening process ensures you hire skilled, reliable writers who align with your vision.
- Fostering Independence:
- Testing for initiative and creativity helps you identify writers who can deliver great ideas without micromanagement.
- Fair Compensation:
- Paying writers per post ensures they’re motivated to produce quality work, while sharing metrics helps build a sense of collaboration.
Conclusion
Finding perfect-fit writers doesn’t have to be daunting. By following this structured framework, you can attract top talent, evaluate their skills effectively, and build a team of writers who are as invested in your blog’s success as you are.
Ready to take your blog to the next level? Start with this proven approach today!