Clinch

Free template · 16 questions

Content writer client questionnaire

For blog posts and long-form content on a recurring basis: settle topics, voice and the editorial process once, then just write.

When to send it: At the start of a content retainer.

Strategy

  1. 1.Who reads your content, and what do you want them to do after reading?
  2. 2.Topics or keywords you want to rank for.
  3. 3.Competitor blogs you admire or want to beat.
  4. 4.How many pieces per month, and what length?

Voice and rules

  1. 5.Style guide, or three articles that sound like you.
  2. 6.UK or US English? First person or brand voice?
  3. 7.Should posts be bylined to you or to someone on your team?
  4. 8.Internal pages or products each post should link to.

Workflow

  1. 9.Will you send briefs per article, or should I propose topics?
  2. 10.Who approves, and how fast do you usually turn around feedback?
  3. 11.Do you need images, meta descriptions or CMS upload?

Budget, timing and decisions

  1. 12.What budget range have you set aside for this?
  2. 13.Is there a hard deadline, and what happens if it moves?
  3. 14.Who else needs to approve the work or the contract?
  4. 15.How would you prefer we communicate (email, calls, messaging), and how often?
  5. 16.How did you hear about me?

Send it, and get the answers back

Stop copying answers out of email threads. With Clinch the questionnaire goes out with your proposal or contract, your client fills it in from their phone, and the deposit is paid when they sign.

Send this questionnaire free

Questions about client questionnaires

When should a content writer send a client questionnaire?

At the start of a content retainer.

Can I edit these questions?

Yes. Copy them, remove what does not apply and add your own. Shorter questionnaires get answered faster: keep only the questions whose answers change your price, your plan or your contract.

Should the questionnaire come before or after the contract?

Questions that affect price and scope belong before the proposal; the detailed ones (names, timelines, access) work best right after signing, when the client is committed and expects them.

How do I send it with Clinch?

Create a free Clinch account, paste the questions, and send them with your proposal or contract. Your client answers from their phone without an account, and the answers are saved on the client's record.