Trying to get started on a new writing project? Wishing you could finish that document you've been struggling with for a while? Maybe the solution is to let a specialist help you. Consider these questions first:

• Will potential or existing clients, new colleagues, or important decision-makers read the document?
• Is your professional image important to you?
• Is your time consumed with important tasks that only you can do?
• Do you have a professional copyeditor available to proofread everything before it is printed and sent out? (Even professional editors have someone else proofread their material.)

If it makes sense to get help with your documents, gather your information and think about your goals before you call a writer. For example, these are some common issues:

• Who will read it? What background knowledge or qualities do they share?
• What do you want the reader to do or understand after reading it?
• What is the main point you want to make?
• How much detail does your reader need?
• Do you have all the information together, or do you want the writer to finish the research?
• When do you need the finished document?
• What do you want it to look like? Black and white or color? Will it have graphics? Does it need a fancy cover or glossy paper?
• If you want illustrations, do you have the artwork?
• How will you print it? Do you need to find a printer, or will you print it in-house? How many copies do you need?

Of course, there may be other issues, too, but these questions will get you started thinking about what you need to accomplish and how you can do it. If you'd like more information about hiring an editor to help you polish your own work, look over "Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Freelance Editing" for some good tips.

For a free consultation or bid on your project, please contact Four Cedars Communications.