For nearly two decades, I’ve been working with corporates as a business copywriter and content specialist. Over the years I’ve seen the many ways businesses choose to work with freelancers or contractors — sometimes brilliantly, sometimes not so much.
It’s not really my place to hand out “rules,” but I do feel strongly that as copywriters we need to protect ourselves and set clear boundaries. At the same time, companies need to understand how to get the most out of the relationship if they want lasting results.
With that in mind, here are my top tips to help you work successfully with a copywriter in 2025:
1. Involve Your Business Copywriter Early
A copywriter adds the most value when they’re part of the strategy from the start. Share details about your target audience, personas, and USPs so they can align the copy with your goals. Don’t rope them in once the content has already been created.
2. Use Their Expertise, Not Just Their Editing Skills
A business copywriter brings strategy, creativity, and years of experience. Let them shape the message rather than simply clean up AI drafts or internally written versions.
3. Be Clear on the Role You Need
Editing, content writing, and copywriting are different services. Define what you need at the start so expectations match.
4. Agree on Payment Terms Upfront
Secure the partnership with a deposit before work begins. The balance can then be paid on completion, giving clarity and confidence to both sides. Most copywriters have terms and conditions listed on their website or in an email signature. If not, ask them about their terms.
5. Communicate Changes Openly
If budgets shift towards AI tools or you’re planning to move copywriting in-house, be transparent. Honesty builds trust and protects the working relationship.
6. Work With Respect
A business copywriter is also a professional running their own business, with families and financial commitments. Treating them with respect leads to better collaboration and stronger outcomes.
7. Make Use of Their Wider Skills
Many copywriters also have SEO knowledge, basic design abilities, or other useful skills. These extras can add real value to your team.
8. Respect Agreements and Timelines
Once a copywriter accepts a brief, the work has officially started. Always check their terms and conditions and acknowledge when work is delivered, even if full feedback will follow later.
9. Build the Relationship for the Long Term
Good copywriters often go the extra mile to deliver quality work on time. Nurture the relationship by keeping communication open, clear, and professional.
10. Prioritise Timely Payment
Discuss invoicing procedures at the start and ensure payments are made on time. Prompt payment shows respect and helps maintain trust.
The Value of Working with a Business Copywriter
A business copywriter is not just someone who writes words for your website or brochure. The right copywriter can help your business sharpen its message, attract the right audience, and turn interest into action.
In a world where AI-generated content is everywhere, what stands out is clarity, credibility, and personality — and that’s exactly what a skilled copywriter brings. By working with a business copywriter, you get more than copy. You gain a partner who understands your brand, your goals, and your audience, and who can translate that into results.
Keen to have an informal chat about what I can do for you as business copywriter?