Overview
This article explains the importance of briefs in working with freelancers, what managing editors look for in briefs, and who should review them before assignment.
Information
Briefs serve as informal contracts between you and your freelancers, so it's important to get them right.
Circulating briefs for review before they're assigned can streamline the review process and may help you head off potentially costly and time-consuming revisions down the line.
Depending on your service arrangement with Contently and other factors, there may be opportunities to have a Contently managing editor review briefs before they're assigned.
What do managing editors look for in briefs?
Managing editors review briefs to make sure:
- Briefs contain sufficient direction and context for freelancers
- Freelancer fees are aligned with the project's requirements and scope
- The brief furthers your content strategy
- The brief contains all the information recommended
If you don't have a managing editor, be sure to cross-check briefs with the points above. Contently recommends making yourself available to freelancers via phone, email, or Contently's messaging tool to answer questions while work is underway.
Who should review my briefs?
Successful Contently users often have colleagues inside their organization review briefs before they're assigned. Reviewers are often the same people who review content once it's in draft form. Common points of review include:
- Brand teams
- Legal teams
- Compliance teams
- Creative teams
- Social teams
Questions about briefs? Contact your Customer Success lead.
Summary
This article highlights the importance of creating effective briefs for freelancers, the role of managing editors in reviewing briefs, and the internal teams that should review briefs before assignment. Ensuring briefs are well-prepared can prevent costly revisions and align with your content strategy.