Constant Content

I was happy to see that non-profit article request for natural disasters, since I already had an article in my portfolio. I wanted to start a discussion on how authors speak with customers. I had to go into the public request and select the option to attach an existing article. I noticed the buyer is new here, so I began with a simple welcome to C-C. I explained this article was already in my portfolio and I thought it might fit his needs. I explain this so he doesn't think I am somehow an instantaneous writer.

I touched on my credentials (very briefly, one sentence, didn't give him my resume lol). I then offered to double check his public request and see if I had any ideas to write other articles, but that if he likes the article I attached, I am happy to work with a Private Request to write other titles his organization can use.

Finally, I wished him the best of luck in finding content for his site, and that the authors here are very helpful. I closed with a simple thank you for bringing his business to C-C and signed my Always Smiling, EAW

I don't know if the buyer will use my article or not, or if he will contact me through C-C private request for additional work. I do know my formula of professional correspondence does get polite responses from buyers, even when they don't select my article. In general, our writing here speaks for itself. But I would suggest, if you have a situation where you need to speak with a customer through C-C's message system, you keep the message professional, kind, and give as much customer service as you can. After all, we all benefit when buyers become repeat customers, and I know there are a number of new writers here on the forums. Any other experienced writers have some tips on communicating with customers? **Stepping off soapbox**

I sent something similar a few weeks ago to another requester, accompnaied by one of my showcased articles. I got a lovely reply , praising the article and my writing style, although he 'wasn't quite ready to purchase, but will definitely be buying it'. He hasn't yet so perhaps he won't, but it is heartwarming to have a good response like that. I do find a total lack of responses very dispiriting and I daresay others do too. I have to keep reminding myself just how busy our customers must be, rather than thinking I'm a busy person too, but I always try to find time to be civil.

Anyway, I do think it's always worthwhile sending a concise and polite message to customers, whether or not they respond.

Just so people know, a nice, well written note can also get the customer to visit your page. I contacted a writer with an article I thought was appropriate for her request. She didn't by the article I suggested, but did purchase another about a different topic shortly after. I don't think she would have found my article if I hadn't corresponded with her respectfully and professionally about the first. I'm not suggesting anyone start soliciting random strangers, but just remember that every correspondence is part of a business dealing and you need to be professional and respectful.