Setting the Right Price for Writing on a Company Blog

If you're considering writing on a company blog, it's important to determine the appropriate price for your services. This not only ensures you're compensated fairly but also helps build a sustainable and collaborative relationship with the company. Here are key considerations to help you set your rate.

Understanding the Importance of Rate Setting

When discussing your freelance writing rate, it's vital to consider the company's potential revenue and the nature of the project. You should aim to negotiate a fair rate that reflects your expertise and the time you will invest in the project. Starting with a slightly higher rate and providing a range can help set the stage for a flexible and fair negotiation.

Standard Rate and Pro Rates

The standard rate for freelance writing, particularly for fiction, is often around $0.06 per word. This rate, however, includes several key factors:

Authorship Rights: Writers often retain the rights to their work and can potentially resell or publish elsewhere. This is a crucial aspect of freelance writing that can significantly impact the rate. Work for Hire: If your work is done on a "work for hire" basis and you surrender all rights, the rate will need to be substantially higher. This can include a fixed salary that compensates you for future earnings or drastically increased per-word rates. Competence and Experience: As you gain more experience, your writing speed and quality will improve. It's fair to charge more for your improved skills and efficiency.

Project-Specific Pricing

The amount you charge for blog writing should also consider the specific project requirements. Here are some general guidelines:

Short Blog Posts (10-50 words): For simpler, less-research-intensive content, rates can be lower. Consider a rate such as $2 to $5 per post. Medium-Length Blog Posts (500-1,000 words): If the content requires more research and substantial writing, you might charge $5 to $10 per word. Longer and More Research-Intensive Posts (5,000 words): For more in-depth articles, you should push for rates like $10 to $20 per word or more.

Factors Influencing the Rate

Several factors can influence the rate you charge for writing on a company blog:

Time and Effort: Longer and more research-intensive projects will naturally command higher rates. Competitive Landscape: Keep an eye on the industry standard rates to ensure your rates are competitive. Company Goals: Consider the company's branding and marketing goals. Higher-profile projects may justify higher rates. Client Relationship: Establishing a good working relationship can lead to recurring projects and the potential for long-term contracts.

Building a Sustainable Pricing Model

To ensure a sustainable and supportive relationship with the company, it's important to:

Propose a Range: Suggest a range for your rates rather than a fixed amount to allow for flexibility and negotiation. Protect Your Rights: Ensure you retain the rights to your work if possible, or negotiate a rate that reflects the loss of future earnings. Offer Value-Added Services: Provide additional value such as research, editing, and promotion to justify a higher rate. Set Clear Expectations: Explain your value proposition to the company to help them understand the benefits of their investment.

In conclusion, setting the right price for writing on a company blog involves a combination of experience, research, and negotiation. By considering factors such as the project's requirements, your expertise, and the company's goals, you can ensure both parties benefit from a fair and mutually agreeable arrangement.