Erin Codazzi: Freelance writer with a marketing twist

Before I begin any writing project, I like to know if my clients have done their homework. In a perfect world, they have:

•Nailed the 4Ps: product, pricing, position, promotion
•Completed a SWOT analysis: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats
•Identified objectives and metrics
•Drafted a value proposition and target messaging
•Hired a designer, graphic or web

But I’m a realist. I don’t expect them to have completed everything in the list above. Or anything, really. Some of those acronyms make me shudder too. If there are holes, I can help plug them. We’ll have a better piece in the end.

Whether you need help with a one-off project or want me to join your communications team on a contract basis, I’m flexible. I’m used to lots of ambiguity and impossible deadlines. I confess: I’m skilled at PowerPoint, too.

Copywriting

I like to write the way your audience speaks, using their words. I read everything I write out loud to make sure it’s conversational and approachable. Sometimes that means writing what would make my college writing professor cringe. I’m also a fan of collaborating with other creatives upfront. When design and copy come together, it’s a beautiful thing.

Examples of what I’ve written and can write for you include: ads (print/online), brochures, case studies, direct mail, email, interactive scripts, magazine articles, marketing plans, newsletters, presentations, press material, sales training material, signage, sweepstakes promotions, taglines, technical documentation, value propositions, website copy (SEO) and white papers.

Proofreading + Editing

I proofread all my own work according to my clients’ preferred style guides: Chicago, AP, in-house, etc. I proofread and edit my clients’ work too. In truth, I’m a bit obsessive about punctuation and style. It feeds my left brain and my left hand.

Project Management

I’ve been told I’m a spreadsheet freak. I suppose it’s true. Being self-employed means I have to juggle many competing priorities. The spreadsheets help me keep it all in line. My management tenure in corporate America and at ad agencies taught me a thing or two, too—about managing budgets, organizing information, working with stakeholders, coordinating vendors and meeting schedules.

“Erin is a talented writer and a creative and dependable resource. I have hired Erin on several occasions, and each time the quality of her work and the project management has been top-notch. I look to Erin anytime I need quality copy and a friendly, professional partnership.”

Kevin Craine
Craine Communications