Communications strategy
Effective communication is crucial for any organisation’s success. A well-defined communications strategy ensures your message reaches the right audience at the right time, strengthening your brand, building relationships, and ultimately achieving your business objectives. Whether you're launching a new product, managing a crisis, or simply aiming to enhance your brand presence, a skilled communications strategist can provide the expertise and guidance you need.
What to look for in a freelance communications strategist
Finding the right freelance communications strategist requires careful consideration. Look for individuals with a proven track record of developing and implementing successful communication strategies across various platforms. Essential qualities include strong analytical skills, excellent writing and verbal communication, a deep understanding of target audiences, and experience in media relations, content creation, and digital marketing.
Key skills and experience:
- Strategic thinking and planning
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Audience analysis and segmentation
- Media relations and outreach
- Content creation and curation
- Digital marketing expertise
- Crisis communication management
- Project management skills
Main expertise areas
Communications strategy encompasses a range of specialisms. When hiring, consider your specific needs and look for freelancers with expertise in areas such as:
- Brand building: Crafting a compelling brand narrative and ensuring consistent messaging across all channels.
- Public relations: Managing media relationships, securing positive coverage, and handling reputation management.
- Content marketing: Developing and distributing valuable content to attract and engage target audiences.
- Social media management: Creating and implementing social media strategies to build community and drive engagement.
- Crisis communications: Developing and executing plans to manage and mitigate reputational damage during crises.
- Internal communications: Facilitating effective communication within organisations to improve employee engagement and morale.
Relevant interview questions
Prepare insightful questions to assess a freelancer’s suitability. Here are some examples:
- Describe your approach to developing a communications strategy.
- Share an example of a successful communications campaign you've managed.
- How do you measure the effectiveness of your communication efforts?
- How do you stay up-to-date with the latest communication trends and technologies?
- Tell me about a time you had to manage a communications crisis.
- What are your preferred communication channels and why?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
- Review portfolios and case studies to assess the quality of their previous work.
- Look for demonstrable results and a clear understanding of strategic communication principles.
- Check testimonials and references to gauge their professionalism and reliability.
Potential red flags
Be wary of freelancers who:
- Lack a clear understanding of your industry or target audience.
- Overpromise or guarantee unrealistic results.
- Have a portfolio with inconsistent quality or a lack of relevant examples.
- Are unable to articulate their communication strategies effectively.
Typical complementary skills
Communications strategists often possess complementary skills that enhance their effectiveness. These can include:
- SEO/SEM
- Copywriting
- Graphic design
- Video production
- Event planning
Benefits of hiring a freelance communications strategist
A skilled freelance communications strategist can bring numerous benefits to your organisation, including:
- Enhanced brand awareness and reputation: A clear and consistent communication strategy helps build a strong brand identity and fosters positive relationships with stakeholders.
- Improved audience engagement: Targeted messaging and effective content creation resonate with your audience, driving engagement and fostering loyalty.
- Increased business growth: Strategic communication can support sales and marketing efforts, ultimately contributing to business growth.
- Effective crisis management: A proactive communications plan helps mitigate reputational damage and maintain stakeholder trust during challenging times.
- Cost-effectiveness: Hiring a freelancer provides access to specialist expertise without the overhead costs associated with permanent employees.
By carefully considering these factors, you can find the perfect freelance communications strategist to help you achieve your communication goals and drive your business forward.
