I've never worked with a writer before. Can you explain to me what the process is?
Once we've pinned down the job specifications, I'll email you my Discovery Questionnaire. This comprehensive questionnaire is designed to uncover just about everything I need to know to write the best copy possible for your business, and I request that you fill it out as completely as possible and return it to me. I'll also read and study any background material you provide. Such materials might include brochures, web content, spec sheets, case studies, market research, and company information. Often, I'll interview you and any other key individuals. Only when I have done all this homework will I begin the actual writing. Fueled by Diet Pepsi and Hershey Bars, I will labor diligently with focused concentration at my keyboard for hours on end, driven by the desire to provide you with brilliant copy that will leave your competitors in the dust.

What about revisions?
Up to two rounds of revisions are usually included in your fee. Once you've reviewed the first draft, I ask that revisions be assigned within 14 days. Expect that your project will need revisions. Writing is a subjective thing. Until technology provides a way for us to perform the Vulcan mind meld, it's simply impossible for me to know with absolute certainty what you envision. A candid, ongoing dialogue is imperative in order to achieve the result you want.

When you write web copy, do you also do the web design and post it on the web?
No. Rather than dilute my focus, I prefer to concentrate on being the best copywriter possible. I leave the technical stuff to the technical experts. I can refer you to several excellent providers. In the case of direct response web copy, I will most likely have web design suggestions for your web designer.

Do you offer graphic design or layout?
No. I can, however, recommend qualified design professionals. Keep in mind, though, that because the right design is often crucial in support of the written word, I may want to consult with your chosen designer or send design suggestions along with the copy.

Do you charge for meetings?
Except in rare cases, I don't do meetings. I find that in most cases, a teleconference works equally well, and less time is wasted. However, if essential, a specific number of meetings are worked into the job estimate; more than that will be billed at an hourly rate.

Do you require a contract?
No, but I do require a letter of agreement. Once we discuss the work, I will email, send or fax you a letter outlining the job specifications. You simply need to sign it and send it back.

Do you require a purchase order?
No.

Do you require a deposit?
Yes. Most projects require a 50% deposit, with the balance invoiced upon completion and due within 14 days. Larger projects may be broken down into more payments. In order to qualify for volume discounts, full payment in advance may be required. Stamps, vegetables from your garden, and chickens are not acceptable forms of payment.

How do you charge? By the hour or by the project?
In most cases, I charge by the project. When I charge by the project, you can be confident that there will be no surprises when you receive your bill. If the project takes me longer than I expected it to, you are not penalized. If I get the project done in record time, I am not penalized for my incredible literary prowess.

On rare occasions, because some projects are open-ended or difficult to estimate, an hourly rate may be more suitable.

What does your fee include?
The fee includes consultation, concepting, research, a specified number of meetings, telephone interviews, writing, and up to two rounds of revisions. The fee does not include out-of-pocket expenses, out-of-area-travel, courier or expedited delivery fees, or a free toaster with every purchase.

What if I change my mind about the direction of a project midway?
If the project changes substantially in concept, scope, or direction, a revised cost estimate will be issued.

How do you deliver my copy to me?
Typically, I deliver copy electronically by an email (MS Word) attachment.

Do I own all rights to the work?
Once full payment has been made, you own the rights to all work created for you, with the exception of portfolio rights. This means you can do anything you want with it and reuse it any way you see fit -- as web copy, in printed materials, in press releases, or as lining for the birdcage. I reserve the right to use your project in hard copy and electronic form (on my web site) in my portfolio. If you have confidentiality concerns, portfolio rights are negotiable.

What's the best way to reach you?
Phone, email, fax, or carrier pigeon. My fax number will be provided to you once we decide to work together.

What's your favorite kind of chocolate?
A plain milk chocolate Hershey Bar, with dark chocolate covered nuts a close second.