It can happen you know. Despite everyone’s best efforts and the work that was done to ensure the best end result, the final content is not what you want.
Perhaps the tone is wrong or it doesn’t seem to really make sense; regardless, there’s no way you are going to distribute or post this blog or newsletter.
What should you do?
Here are a few steps that can help you to avoid this most unfortunate situation or at the very least correct what has already transpired:
Take enough time to prep the writer and explain what you want
Content developers aren’t mind readers and will have difficulty communicating what you want and how you want it to be communicated without some sort of strategy session. This “meeting of the minds” can take as little as ten minutes but will go a long way to eliminating missteps.
Always ask your writer to include one round of revisions in their contract
Even if a major re-write isn’t required there are often some minor tweaks that must be made. Make certain that this step is included in the agreement and there is full understanding as to what comprises one round of revisions. Miscommunication here can result in major disappointment.
Explain why you don’t like the article and how you would like it to be changed
Telling your writer that you don’t like the article without any further explanation may result in a revision that is also unacceptable. The more detailed your input and instructions the more you are certain to get what you want.
Remember that it is important to select your writer with care. You can more easily avoid this situation if you take the time to discuss your needs in advance of hiring your writer. Remember too that your content developer doesn’t want to disappoint you. If you both proceed with care you can be more confident of a successful outcome and long-term relationship.