Lesson Three Homework: Research, Research, Research

This homework is all about research. For this homework, you’ll be conducting research, so keep in mind that you’ll need to be flexible and work around the schedules of people you’re reaching out to. Some may prefer to talk on the phone versus replying via email—so give your interviewees options. You’ll want to take detailed notes of the responses you get. From your notes, you’ll be able to pick out patterns and common themes in the feedback you gather. 

Part One: Fellow Freelancers

Put together a list of email addresses for 15-20 freelance writers you admire that do what you do (or what you’d like to do.) Then, reach out to them with a brief email explaining that you’re conducting research interviews, and see if they’re willing to answer a few of your questions. 

Sample email:  

Hey (firstname),

Hope all is well. I'm conducting some research interviews as part of my learning process on the path to becoming a better freelance writer. I'd love to ask you a few questions (three, to be exact) about your copywriting journey (and your success!)

I know you are super busy, so if you don't have time, I totally get it. That's why I wanted to ask first before launching questions your way.

If you're open to it, let me know and I'll send my (3) questions over for you to answer  whenever it's convenient.  

Thank you, 
Yourname
(Website address or Twitter handle)

Your key questions are as follows:

Part Two: Ideal Clients  

Next, put together a list of 15-20 companies or brands you’d like to work for and find contacts for the person who’d hire a freelance writer (which means look for titles like ‘Editor’ and ‘Content Manager’ at these companies.) Then, reach out to them with a brief email explaining that you’re conducting research interviews, and see if they’re willing to answer a few of your questions. 

Sample email: 

Hey (firstname), 

I'm currently enrolled in a coaching course, and one of my assignments is to conduct research interviews with content managers that hire freelance writers. That's you!

Could I shoot you over a few questions to answer whenever you have time?  

I promise this is not a sales pitching interview...it's purely to learn what motivates people to hire freelancer writers. Four questions—no more.

Let me know if you wouldn't mind me sending over those questions. I wanted to ask before shoving a bunch of questions into your inbox! 

Thanks in advance, 
Yourname
(Website address or Twitter handle) 

Your key questions are as follows: