Q: What if I already have the copy for a project, and I just need someone to go over it to make sure it isn’t going to embarrass me? Do you do that?

A: Sure. People often ask me to "massage" existing copy. Sometimes it needs nothing more than a quick edit. Sometimes it needs a little more help, and I’ll suggest what needs to be done and how much it would cost for me to do it. One way or another, it’s smart (and very cost-effective) to have a professional writer go over text that has been written by a nonprofessional before it "goes to market." You don’t want poorly written copy to hurt your image.

 Q: I know I need to produce a brochure (or Web site, manual, or any other written piece), but I’m not sure what it needs to say. Can you help?

 A: Yes. The dilemma you’re in is a common one. Chances are, you’re too close to the situation to be able to take a fresh, objective look at it and sort out your ideas. As an outsider, I can stand in the shoes of the target audience and ask, "What do these people need to know? What do they want to hear? What should be said? What doesn’t need to be included? What’s the best way to do the job this piece is intended to do?" By starting at the ground level and building a brochure, Web site, ad, manual, or other written piece from the concept up, you typically get a much better finished product. I can help you do this.

Q: What is your background?

A: I began writing professionally in high school and have been a full-time professional freelance writer since 1982. Working with great clients and talented graphic designers, I have been fortunate enough to win numerous awards for writing for various types and sizes of businesses. For more information, please go to the "A Little About Me" page.

Q: How can we work together if we don’t live in the same city, state, or even country?

A: It’s easy – virtually as easy as working with someone just down the block. In fact, many of my clients live so far away I’ve never seen them. Thanks to e-mail and other technology, it really doesn’t matter how close or far away I am from my clients. Working long distance is just as efficient these days, and rarely involves additional expense.

Q: How much do you charge?

A: My clients tell me that my rates are very reasonable. (In fact, most of my long-term clients don’t even ask me for bids anymore.) However, I like to start a project with a bid to avoid any surprises. I generally charge by the project rather than by the hour. For a more detailed look at my fees, please see the "What I Charge" page.

Q: Do you do graphic design and production as well as writing?

A: No – not beyond formatting fairly simple books and manuals. (Web sites are an exception. I can design them, as I did this one.) If you don’t already have a graphic designer in mind, I can refer you to several top designers with whom I work regularly. Whether you choose one of these or have your own, I can work closely with the graphics and production people from start to finish to ensure close integration of copy and graphics. Rates and fees in my neck of the woods (Salt Lake City) might be lower than where you live.