The misconception that content writing services is an “easy” job is certainly one of the most misplaced in modern times. Accomplished wordsmith or not, anyone who’s attempted even the shortest of writing tasks will tell you that a substantial effort is required in order to produce something worth reading. Apart from the obvious time investment, writers typically pour into their work all of their passion and creative effort. Writers dedicate much of their waking thoughts to their current project and worry themselves sick over the quality of what they have written. Before a text is handed over for approval, it will first have to be deemed fit by the harshest critic of all – the writer him/herself.
Content writers, in particular, have a hard bone to chew. Writers of content do not have the luxury of writing about any subject that strikes their fancy. Instead, they have to produce informed, descriptive and beguiling texts about topics they sometimes know nothing about. Hence, while their writing does remain artistic, it is much more tailored and specific.
However long you’ve been writing, if you’ve just lately branched into content, there’s no guarantee you’re going to get it right the first time you present a text for approval. Luckily, though, a content writer’s text is rarely rejected outright. What many companies believe in, instead, is providing writers with valuable, specific feedback. This presents writers with the opportunity to improve their work.
Here’s why we think receiving feedback can only ever be a good thing:
1. Positive feedback, not negative
Many writers baulk about receiving feedback, not wanting their work to be criticised. What they tend to forget, though, is that feedback is always positive. Any serious content writing services who values its writers will be very careful about delivering critique on a writer’s texts. It knows that a “well done” is just as – if not more – important than a “please edit.” Moreover, feedback pointing out what a writer can improve is carefully worded. Instructions should be clear and succinct, delivered in a pleasant manner and easy to follow. At Topcontent, we have a lot of faith in our writers and want to help them improve in every possible way. That’s why we make it a point to only give constructive criticism.
2. Work appreciation
Imagine you’ve slaved over a particular project for days. You have conducted some impeccable research, found fantastically relevant images and finally turned in a gem of a text. The text follows instructions to a tee and, most importantly, fulfils its objective. Imagine, then, that after all the time you put in and the mind-wracking and the obsessive double-and-triple checking of instructions, you are met only with an echoing silence. Not even an acknowledgement of the receipt of your work is given.
Receiving feedback does much to raise a worker’s morale, even if it is just a short sentence to thank them for their hard work.
3. Patterns become clearer
While many content writers are freelance, chances are, if you consistently turn in good-quality content, you’ll be getting plenty of work from the same company. When this happens, feedback given can be even more effective than it would have been on a single task.
If you are given feedback for each and every task you turn in, in a consistent manner, you will not only be given the opportunity to edit your work; you will also be able to have a look at what you produce in a more holistic manner. This way, it will be more possible to see patterns emerging in your texts. Perhaps you tend to use the same phrases. For example that you tend to stick to the same style or tone of voice. Or maybe you’ve used that filler word one time too many. This will enable you to become more aware of your writing style, your weak and strong points and adjust accordingly.
4. Multiple reviews
You may be your own worst critic, but having an extra pair of eyes – or even two – can surely never go amiss. Receiving regular, instructive feedback gives you the chance to go over your work multiple times. You will also be able to work collaboratively with the company that has hired you. In addition, you will improve your teamwork skills and hopefully result in a better end product.
5. Learn the tricks of the trade
Embarking on a writing career is exciting stuff, and, like any other job, also comes with a learning curve. No matter how talented you are, there is always something new to learn, especially when it comes to content. If you’ve started out without the slightest idea of what a meta description is, or what a gaming review should look like, here’s your opportunity to find out – and learn how to write them.
6. Produce more targeted texts
Anyone who’s good with a pen will probably attempt storytelling as their first forage into the world of writing. But – while we value stories and even sometimes use them in our own content – writing with a purpose is an altogether different kettle of fish. Which means you will have to train yourself to produce more specific, tailored texts targeted at a specific audience. Writing regularly will help train you to produce even more meaningly, effective content as time goes by. This is especially true with the help of getting the right feedback.
7. Practice makes perfect
It’s certainly no secret that, the more you write, the quicker you become at it – and receiving useful feedback will do much to help you on your way. As you become better and more proficient at your job, you will find yourself needing to correct and review texts less, saving you valuable time and potentially earning you more money – as you can then focus on doing what you do best – producing fantastic content!
8. Advance your career
Once you’ve received enough feedback (we’re just kidding – you can never receive enough feedback) – you’ll be able to add to your not inconsiderable skills. As an accomplished writer, you may advance enough to be able to guide and instruct newer writers, or have a shot at proofreading and/or editorial work. Have a chat with your employer to see where you can put your newfound skills to use!
