Freelance Writer Portfolios: How to Spot the Pros
Hiring a freelance writer can feel like a leap of faith, especially if you’re trying to move fast and don’t have time to train someone. The right writing samples can help you spot a pro who’s strategic, reliable, and ready to deliver.
Here’s what to look for when evaluating a portfolio.
Start With Real-World Experience
You’re not just looking for style; you’re looking for signs this writer can adapt to your business needs. Strong portfolios show:
Real client work. Samples created for paying clients show the writer knows how to reflect brand voice, tone, and subject matter in the real world.
Range and relevance. Even if the work comes from an agency role, it still shows the writer’s ability to handle multiple clients, deadlines, and content types. Ask yourself if this person’s range shows that they could support your industry, audience, and marketing goals.
Process variety. Great freelancers work from a variety of starting points: interviews, product messaging, creative briefs, or independent research. That versatility can be a big advantage when you’re short on time or SMEs.
Evaluate the Work
You don’t need to be a writing expert. As a reader, focus on:
Clarity: Is the writing easy to follow?
Voice: Could you imagine this tone working for your audience?
Usefulness: Does the piece speak to a real business challenge or opportunity?
How Writers Share Their Work (And What That Tells You)
Some writers have portfolio websites. Others may send links or PDFs. The format matters less than what the samples show:
Can the writer meet a deadline?
Can they reflect a brand voice?
Can they turn strategy into clear, confident writing?
What My Portfolio Shows
In my own portfolio, you’ll find:
Case studies based on SME interviews.
Blog posts created in partnership with in-house experts.
Ebooks and emails shaped by content strategy and business goals.
I bring 15+ years of B2B writing experience and a strategic approach that helps you get more from every piece of content.
Next Step: Let’s Talk
Want to see if my writing style and approach are a good fit for your next campaign or project?
Contact me to talk through your goals.
