Don’t be an editor. Be a correspondent.

MarketSmiths Content Strategist Eric J. Francis offers a candid look into the copy revision process—and why clients should put down the red pen.

In the copywriting revision process, it's more valuable for you to be a correspondent than an editor.

“No passion in the world is equal to the passion to alter someone else’s draft.” – attributed to H.G. Wells

It’s not something we like to talk about, but sometimes we create copy for you that’s… only almost perfect. 

The tone could be off. Perhaps a certain viewpoint is missing. Or maybe it’s just that the copy speaks, but doesn’t sing.

At that moment you may be tempted to pull up the keyboard and make the changes yourself. That would be simple, expedient… and the wrong move. 

Here’s a secret of our craft: It’s not edits that improve copy, it’s information. And by providing us with written feedback, you are giving us the information we need to improve what we write for you — both now and in the future. 

The long-term partnerships we develop with our clients become better as we get to know you, your business, and your offerings. When you send us a note about what’s missing and why it’s important, you’re providing us with critical context about your business, your offerings, and your thoughts. 

As copy strategists, we’ll take that information and learn from it. We can see exactly what needs to happen for the copy to accomplish your goals, whether that means adding a sentence and or restructuring an entire document. We’ll produce a better final product because of the comments you share.

Creating great copy is an interactive process. The better we get to know each other, the more efficient that process becomes. And the best way to help us accomplish that is to think like a correspondent.

Ready for a copywriting partner that grows with you? Get in touch.

The Editorial Team

The Editorial Team

Made up of seasoned strategists and copywriters, the MarketSmiths Editorial Team is a collective voice that champions sharp thinking, smart writing, and battling the bland with every word.

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