Saturday, June 15, 2024

Kudos Matter  


I collect kudos, do you?  

It doesn't have to be a full-blown testimonial to count, although those are impressive when posted on LinkedIn. Small compliments received in an email, spoken in words of thanks, and provided as feedback comments shape who you are, and how you are perceived by others.

Such informal kudos don't need to be hidden from view. Asking "May I quote you?" often grants permission to post someone's praise, lending credibility to your website or other promotional materials. If you can't use their name or mention their company, a generic reference will work, such as Project Manager, Major Oil and Gas Company. The same goes for including customer quotes in case studies, white papers, newsletters, etc.

Sample list

Here's an example of my collected kudos:

"Perfect article!"
"I'm smiling out loud."
"We appreciate your help."
"Thank you for the edits."
"Yes, this works."
"Looks great, Thank you for your handle on this as always!"
"I can't believe that literally a week later I've got exactly what I want, and it's even better than I dreamt."
"It looks beyond fantastic. You did a great job with the layout and fonts, etc."
"Fabulous."

A measure of success

When put to use, kudos help build your reputation. While it may seem low-tech in an era of big data analytics, it's another way of measuring success one soundbite at a time. Sometimes, it's just one word that epitomizes your brand. So, don't toss away even the smallest thumbs-up. Add it to your kudos list. Consider working it into your vision statement. Whether or not you share this information with anyone else, glance at it occasionally to affirm how you're doing. Positivity breeds positivity.

Work with me to tell your positive story via blogs, whitepapers, case studies, and editorial articles. 




Sunday, March 31, 2024

CASE STUDIES FOR FREE, WELL ALMOST

The next best thing is case study preparation at a fixed fee. With no surprises! 

We've all seen large Resource libraries on corporate websites containing case studies on every imaginable topic. Hiring skilled writing talent to build those libraries is not always an option for small and mid-sized companies; thus, limiting their ability to compete in keyword searches. You might argue that AI is up to the task, but I maintain the human touch is still needed to tell a human interest story.

I'm committed to making sure everyone can afford to produce as many case studies as they need to boost their SEO, while simultaneously telling a compelling story that increases the credibility of a product or service. If what you did made a difference to someone, somewhere, it begs to be told. 

So I've figured out a way to offer high-quality case study writing at an affordable, set price. You can leverage my experience and efficiency to get results without worrying about the mounting costs of an hourly rate scenario. I personally handle each project from start to finish, including interviews with your SME and the end client, two written drafts and review cycles, and final polished content complete with images and testimonials, ready to put into your existing case study template. 

All for a predictable, flat charge. 

If needed, I can also provide a basic layout at a nominal fee.

Contact me directly to see how this Writing as a Service arrangement could work for you.

Deborah Long, MA
Award-Winning Writer

Email: eye4content@gmail.com
Text: 832-868-6100
Website: www.eye4content.com


Tuesday, January 30, 2024

GHOSTWRITING IS ALIVE AND WELL

Do you have a book inside of you dying to get out? Consider hiring a ghostwriter for a pain-free experience and quicker outcome.  

How it Works

A good ghostwriter will get to know you well enough to essentially tell your story for you. It typically involves a series of brief phone interviews and research on the topic to gather facts. In the process, a single voice emerges and the passion of the storyteller comes through. The ghostwriter is the necessary vehicle, the muse if you will, who inspires the project and guides it to completion--without which your ideas could languish on the shelf for years. 

Year of the Book

While the past few years were dominated by writing blogs and short-form social posts, 2024 looks like it might be the Year of the Book. Whether it's a downloadable e-book or a full-scale, printed book, what better way to share your knowledge and impress your clients? I have clear evidence of this trend in my own work, as existing clients are asking me to ghostwrite their books. For some, it is a first-time venture into the world of publishing, for others it is the next novel, memoir, or textbook they are authoring.

Impact

Books, or booklets, can be made available for sale when presenting at a professional conference or private speaking engagement. You can even hold a book signing event to promote the release, perhaps at a venue that relates to the topic. Printouts of white papers serve the same purpose but lack the impact of an actual bound book.

Benefits

Publishing a book in your area of expertise lends credibility, builds your reputation, and provides another income stream. The electronic age may offer quick, convenient access to downloadable information. However, many people still enjoy the feel of a tangible book they can hold in their hands and read at night after turning off all blue light devices for optimum sleep.

Trending

Being published is no longer limited to academia, where professors must 'publish or perish.'  It is now a common personal goal of people in business or just about anyone who has a story to tell. And with book templates in Microsoft Word and self-publishing through amazon.com, it has never been easier. All you need to do is put the words on paper, as they say.

DIY vs. Ghostwriting

If you have the time to do it yourself, that's great. If not, I am here to offer my writing acumen so you can keep doing what you do best. You still own the content and get to have your name as the author. This is one instance when I am perfectly happy being invisible.

Let's write together...