A Lawn Care Service/Landscape Writer’s Attempt at Transparency Part 1

Yesterday, I read an interesting blog post called “The Purple Cow that’s Right Underneath Your Business’ Nose,” by Marcus Sheridan of the Sales Lion (http://www.thesaleslion.com/purple-cow-business-nose/).

I appreciated Sheridan’s take on individual businesses standing out in the crowd by being transparent. So, I’m dedicating my next three blog posts to transparency by sharing the good and the bad of my industry; I’ll try answering FAQs about hiring writers; and how my writing services stand out from my competitors.

Today’s blog focuses on content market writers’ strengths and weaknesses:

1. Strength: There are outstanding writers out there who charge a fair price and give you an exceptional product.
2. Strength: Good content writers understand the need to write original content in the year of Google’s Hummingbird platform.
3. Strength: Good content writers want to establish good relationships with their clients for the long-term.
4. Strength: Good content writers write for you to succeed in the ever-changing Google landscape.
5. Strength: Good content writers seek to understand your business and your industry. They don’t promise something that they can’t deliver, but will do their darndest to provide you with exceptional copy (writer-speak for the written piece) on time, every time.
6. Strength: Good content writers will ask questions when they’re not sure if they’ve gotten a term or concept down correctly.
7. Weakness: Every industry has hacks. Just because XYZ writer from one of those content mills can write blogs for $5 a piece doesn’t mean that you’re getting top-quality copy.
8. Weakness: Some writers think they can write for every industry. And while that may be true for some, specialist writers can deliver a more targeted copy that’ll resonate with your readers.
9. Weakness: Not all writers are well-versed in Google’s changing algorithms.
10. Weakness: Not all writers understand the concept of good business writing skills. They’re unable to walk in your shoes, much less walk in your prospect’s shoes. And they won’t write copy that’ll bring readers to your blog.

As a landscape or lawn care service provider, you know that some of your competitors make big promises, but can’t or won’t fulfill them. When you decide to outsource your writing jobs to a professional, make sure that you take the time to talk with her, read her other works, and contact others who’ve used her services in the past. That way, you can be sure that you get the best bang for your buck.

What have been your experiences with a content marketing writer? Please share in the comments section.