Should a freelance copywriter work on spec?
Our policy about working on spec
From time to time clients may ask us to produce an article, brochure, or website page for free (on spec).
They argue this will enable them to see what we’re capable of and whether we can really supply them with what they need. Companies may offer to provide a title (and sometimes the keywords) requesting that we write the initial page as a test before starting the full project. This, they say, will give them the ability to fully appraise our working methods and technical competence before signing off.
We always refuse.
Often the client will even admit he’s asked several different writers to write a selection of pages for his new website, all on spec! This means he gets a considerable amount of top quality copywriting without paying a penny to the writers. We believe this should not be required, and is an unethical way to do business.
Many examples of our work are already published on our website, giving a good indication of the breadth of topics we cover, and the standards to which we adhere. If necessary we can point clients in the direction of websites written by us live online, although we’re careful to protect clients' anonymity if necessary.
If clients are still unsure of whether we’d be able to write to the standard they need, or in the tone of voice they require, the best way to proceed is to request a test page which will be costed as per our usual rates. We always present clients with an initial first draft, giving them an opportunity to make changes or request edits. We don’t finish writing until the client is completely satisfied. We believe that using this method is fair to all parties, while at the same time giving clients the ability to assess whether they feel we’re the correct writers for the job.
Our message is simple: don’t try to get free work out of freelancers because it’s unethical, unfair, and simply unnecessary. However, bear in mind that a request for tender is different to a request for samples, and that providing an outline of cost, timeframes, tone of voice, target audience etc is not the same as producing a finished piece of work. We answer all tender requests in full and for free.