Today, we're diving into something crucial—knowing when to step back from a potential partnership with a conversion copywriter. 

Just like any relationship, the fit has to be just right, especially when your business’s voice and revenue are at stake.

Just in case you aren’t sure what that would look like, here’s an illustration for you…

Meet Sarah -  A dedicated health and fitness coach, wife, and mom, who decided it was time to take her growing business to the next level by investing in high-converting copy for her website and sales pages. Sarah had a new group coaching program that she was ready to launch, which would provide income for her family for the next six months.

She met a copywriter, Jennifer, who promised quick results and had a flashy portfolio. But soon, Sarah noticed some worrying signs. Jennifer rarely asked questions about her clients or business and pushed a one-size-fits-all strategy. Despite her gut feeling, Sarah went ahead, only to find that the copy didn't resonate with her target audience. Sadly, the sales page for her new program didn’t convert into the sales she had hoped. She only brought in a third of the revenue she needed.

This story isn't just disappointing; it's a teachable moment about the importance of choosing the right copywriter. 

Let’s walk through some major red flags that could signal a mismatch, making sure you team up with someone who truly amplifies your business.

YOUR CHECKLIST OF RED FLAGS WHEN PARTNERING WITH A CONVERSION COPYWRITER

1. Lack of Detailed Questions: If a copywriter doesn’t ask detailed questions about your business, goals, and audience, it’s a red flag. Without a deep understanding of your business and customers, the copy will likely fall flat, as high-converting copy is built on knowledge and research, not assumptions.

2. No Mention of Client or Customer Interviews: A copywriter who doesn’t intend to speak with your customers or clients might not fully understand the needs, desires, and pain points of your target audience. Skipping this step could result in copy that fails to speak the language of your ideal client and compel them to buy.

3. Generic Portfolio Samples: If their work looks generic and could apply to any business, be cautious. You need custom solutions, not cookie-cutter copy. Your business deserves content that stands out and addresses your specific audience's needs.

4. Quick Turnaround Promises: Promises of lightning-fast delivery should give you cause for concern. Quality copywriting requires research, drafting, and revisions. 

5. No Strategy Discussion: If there’s little to no discussion of how the copy fits into your overall marketing strategy, it’s a warning sign. Copywriting should be strategically aligned with your marketing goals and overall messaging.

6. Ethical Concerns: Be wary if the copywriter suggests using manipulative or unethical tactics. Ethical sales strategies build trust and credibility, while manipulative tactics can damage your reputation and diminish the trust your customers have in you.

7. Inflexibility in Adapting to Feedback: A copywriter who is resistant to feedback or reluctant to make changes based on your insights and desires may not be a good fit. Copywriting is often a collaborative process, and she needs to accurately align her work with your brand’s voice and goals.

8. Vague or Non-Existent Communication: Poor communication or slow responses can lead to misunderstandings and missed deadlines. Effective communication is crucial for any successful collaboration, so a copywriter who doesn’t communicate well is a red flag. Note: Make sure that dates, deadlines, and delivery expectations are set forth in the contract, as well as the method of communication and how often you will communicate!

9. Overpromising: Be cautious if a copywriter guarantees specific results, like doubling your sales overnight. While experienced copywriters can significantly improve your results, marketing guarantees can be unrealistic due to a variety of factors.

10. Unwillingness to Provide References: If a copywriter hesitates or refuses to provide references, it could indicate that she has unsatisfied clients. References help verify a copywriter's reliability and work ethic.

Choosing the right conversion copywriter is like picking a business partner. 

They should not only be skilled in their craft but also a perfect fit for your business’s unique needs and goals. Watch for red flags that might indicate a copywriter is not up to the task, and prioritize those who demonstrate a deep commitment to understanding your business and audience.

If you want to avoid these red flags, read the next post that will give you a list of questions to ask a copywriter to determine if she is the right fit for your business.

Are you ready to partner with a copywriter for your next launch, website copy revamp, or email sequence?

If the answer is YES, Let's chat! I'll show you how conversion copywriting can transform your business and take it to the next level.

I offer a 30-minute Complimentary Copy Consultation!  Don’t hesitate to reach out, schedule a time to chat, and discuss whether or not you’re ready to invest in high-converting copy for your business.

To Your Success,

Gina, your “Go-to” Expert Conversion Copywriter