How much does a copywriter cost? 5 factors to consider when getting a copywriting quote

‘How much do you charge for copywriting?’

It’s one of the most common questions a freelance copywriter gets asked. Well… after what does a copywriter do?

The reality is that, just like other professional services, there are a lot of factors to consider when we give you a quote for your project.
​
So, let’s discuss copywriting costs and what the pricing involves.

---

Prefer to listen, rather than read? Here's the Podcast summary!

---

Creating engaging content for your audience is now a non-negotiable staple in your brand’s marketing efforts. Your customers are demanding it, and your business has to meet their needs, otherwise your competitors will.
​
But not every team has the resources, time or skillset to keep up.

This is where a copywriter can help you get things done

A quality freelance copywriter offers your business a lot of value through experience and expertise while saving you time. But before you even discuss cost, do you need a copywriter?

Sure – everyone can write.

But a professional copywriter specialises in adapting words to communicate messages effectively to get results in a variety of diverse ways. We can really help your business across your whole suite of content.

However, business is business and budgets are budgets. In the end, it comes down to the bottom line, and ROI (Return On Investment) is a very important consideration for any service.

How does a copywriter fit into this? 

Using the services of a copywriter costs precious dollars, and there are many options out there for your business to select from. There are expensive copywriters, there are cheaper alternatives, and there are ones in the middle.

It’s up to you to decide who best suits your needs, however here are a few considerations that a copywriter will take into account when providing you with a quote for copywriting work.

How much does a copywriter cost? 

Well, it all depends on a few factors:

(1) The project scope

Obviously, writing copy for a website is a very different job to an EDM, an advert or a blog. The cost will reflect this difference too. So keep in mind how wide your job is and the amount of time required to complete it.

(2) The nature of your project

If you know what type of marketing copywriting you need, the next factor that impacts a copywriter’s cost is the extent of service you require. 

For example, does your project need the copywriter to undertake a lot of research? Have you provided a draft, or is this content completely from scratch?

The quote will vary depending on what’s involved in completing it.

(3) Who the copywriter is

Your copywriter’s background also determines what level of price they charge too. There is a wide range of freelance copywriters around and each has a different background, level of experience, style and approach.

If you’re looking for a quick and inexpensive job, then you’ll probably want to steer towards a more junior writer. However, if you need a full-service copywriter to lean on for professional marketing direction and consulting throughout your project, then opt for someone with more experience who has years of relevant knowledge. But just like any service, you will pay for this.

(4) The time frame on delivery

Today’s businesses work at a million kilometres an hour, and this frequently means needing copy back very quickly. A freelance copywriter works on many projects for many clients at once and so, they’re always scheduling in time throughout the week and month to write.

If your project is urgent, this forces a copywriter to have to push things aside or work long hours to accommodate, and you will have to pay for this convenience.

(5) How many rounds of changes 

Generally, a copywriter will offer you one or a maximum of two tweaks to the draft before the project is finalised. This allows for slight adjustments to get it right, without the copy ending in up in endless rounds of edits.

However, if you have a project that is going to require multiple rounds of reviews, like in a medical, legal or highly regulated industry, then this needs to be accommodated for too.

(6) The value on offer

In business, it’s always better to focus on value over a simple commodity cost.

A quality copywriter will usually charge based on the value they’re offering your business as opposed to a per hour price. This is because per hour makes it transactional, and doesn’t factor in your overall goals of the project.

If you and your copywriter are looking at your project based on the overall benefits and outcome that a new website, brochure or strategic document will provide for your business, then you are both aligned in your commitment to a successful outcome. 

When you’re asking a freelance copywriter for their costs, just remember the above factors all come into play.

How to discuss copywriting costs

As with any professional service you are looking for, it’s always best to discuss costs and expectations upfront – and if either party doesn’t feel like it aligns with their goals, then it’s totally fine to not proceed.

It’s nothing personal. It’s just business.

I always suggest having an initial chat. It can be 5 minutes or so, to just run through the basics of what you need. During this time, a quality copywriter will ask you questions about your project and then send you a briefing document that you can fill in.

Once this is done, your copywriter can quote you on the work and you can either accept or reject it.

Just don’t be afraid to ask! 

So many businesses that need a copywriter to help them begin by doing research, then assume that it will be too expensive, and just give up without even asking. If you were to make an enquiry, you’ll probably find that professional copywriting is quite affordable, especially when you think about the value you’re getting back.
​
But as you would know, going for the cheapest quote usually doesn’t get you the best result – because you get what you pay for.

Why can’t a copywriter give me a generic cost?

You may have asked a copywriter in the past, only to get the response: can I know more about your project?

We understand that this can be frustrating; but a copywriter doesn’t do this to ‘suck you in’ or keep you hooked. The reality is: every single client and every single project is different.

So it’s impossible to give you a price based on a question as generic as: “how much do you charge for a website?”

Even writing a blog for one company can be completely different from another, based on what they need. So, most copywriters can’t provide you with a generic cost for a job, because this introduces the risk of guessing a price without knowing what will be involved.

If anything, a copywriter may provide you with an estimated price range. Then when you discuss your requirements in depth, they can provide you with a more accurate quote.

How to approach a copywriter for a quote

Here are some tips to help you get the right quote from a copywriter.

1. Research their website and determine if the copywriter is a good match
2. Take the time to understand the scope of your own project fully
3. Be specific with all of the details, such as what, when, how and why.
4. Communicate time frames and deadlines upfront
5. Be prepared to both ask and answer questions
6. Get everything in writing so there are no misunderstandings
7. Read the terms and conditions of the copywriting quote before you agree
8. Focus on long-term relationships with your copywriter
   
9. Pay your invoices on time! 

How Can Melotti Media Copywriting Help You?

To engage your customer and achieve ongoing business success today, you need quality copywriting and consistent content. However, we understand that this is easier said than done.

You’re time poor and spread thin, and writing isn’t your expertise. So, focus on what really matters, while we take care of all of your copywriting and content marketing needs!

For more information or to speak to a quality copywriter to get the results your business deserves, contact me now at chris@melottimedia.com.au.

I can sharpen your words to achieve your goals, today!

Christopher Melotti

Melotti Media Copywriting and Marketing Solutions
www.melottimedia.com.au
 
Click here to view the FAQ page for all you need to know ​