Content Writing: Agency VS Freelancer, Compared (2024)

THE QUICK ANSWER: Freelancers for niche needs and low budgets. Agencies for volume, expertise, and hands-off support.

Choosing between a content writing agency and a freelancer for your needs can be tricky, as both offer distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Our guide makes it simpler.

When to choose which (Content Writing)

1. Agency

• You need a large volume of content consistently.
• You require diverse expertise for different writing styles, SEO optimization, and editing.
• You have a high budget and prefer a hands-off approach.

2. Freelancer

• You have a smaller project with a tight budget.
• You need specific niche skills not readily available in an agency.
• You value personal collaboration and direct communication with the writer.
• You need more flexibility to adapt to changing project requirements.

Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

Differences: Agency vs Freelancer (Content Writing)

Feature	Content Writing Agency	Freelancer
Cost	$$$	$
Expertise	Broad range of skills and specializations	Niche expertise, may require finding the right fit
Scalability	Can handle large projects with high volume	May struggle with large projects or tight deadlines
Personalization	Less personal touch, communication through intermediaries	Direct communication and collaboration with the writer
Flexibility	Less flexible due to established processes	More adaptable to specific needs and changes
Project Management	Agency takes care of logistics	You handle communication, logistics, and quality control

Let’s go in-depth on this.

1. Structure → Team

• Agency: A team of writers, editors, designers, and strategists working together under one roof. Offers a full-service package, handling research, writing, editing, publishing, and SEO.
• Freelancer: Solo individual offering writing services. May collaborate with freelancers for other aspects like editing or design, but project management falls on you.

2. Expertise

• Agency: Access to a wider range of skills and expertise covering diverse writing styles and industry niches. Can manage complex projects requiring multiple specialists.
• Freelancer: May have specialized skills in a specific niche but might lack broader expertise. Finding freelancers for different aspects of your project requires more effort.

3. Cost

• Agency: Higher fees due to overhead costs. Offers scalability as they can handle growing content needs by adding team members.
• Freelancer: Usually more affordable for smaller projects, but rates can vary depending on experience. Scaling requires finding and onboarding additional freelancers, which can be time-consuming.

4. Communication & Control

• Agency: Less direct communication with the writer as you interact with a project manager. May follow stricter internal processes and guidelines.
• Freelancer: Direct communication with the writer allows for a more personalized approach and greater control over the project.

Advantages & Disadvantages (For Each)

1. Agency

Advantages:

• Full-service solution: Agencies handle everything from strategy and ideation to writing, editing, and publishing. You don’t need to manage the project yourself.
• Scalability: They can handle large projects and ongoing content needs seamlessly, growing their team to match your requirements.
• Broad expertise: Access to a diverse range of writers with skills in various writing styles and industry niches.
• Streamlined process: Standardized processes and workflows ensure consistent quality and delivery.
• Project management: Dedicated project managers ensure deadlines are met and communication is smooth.

Disadvantages:

• Cost: Typically more expensive than freelancers due to overhead and team costs.
• Less personal touch: Direct communication with the writer might be limited, making it harder to personalize your content.
• Less flexibility: May have set packages or minimum project requirements, offering less customization.
• Potential lack of understanding of your brand: It might take more effort to onboard them on your specific brand voice and tone.

2. Freelancer

Advantages:

• Cost-effective: Often charged by the project or hour, making them a more affordable option for smaller budgets.
• Personal touch: Direct communication with the writer allows for greater control over the project and easier personalization.
• Flexibility: Easier to find freelancers with specific skills or experience relevant to your niche.
• Potential deeper understanding of your brand: Freelancers can immerse themselves in your brand and tailor content accordingly.

Disadvantages:

• Limited resources: May lack access to editors, designers, or SEO experts, requiring you to find these services separately.
• Project management: You’ll be responsible for managing the project, including finding the right freelancer, setting deadlines, and providing feedback.
• Scalability: Finding and onboarding multiple freelancers for large projects can be time-consuming and challenging.
• Quality consistency: Depending on the freelancer, the quality and style of content might vary.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities.

For smaller projects, tight budgets, and a need for personalized content, a freelancer might be ideal.

For larger projects, ongoing content needs, and wanting a hands-off approach, an agency could be the better fit.

Tips: Finding & Hiring the right agency/freelancer

You’ll find the greatest freelancers on UpWork or Fiverr, while the best agencies are always found on AgencyReviews.io, a platform dedicated to honest feedback for agencies of all types.

How to find the best agency or freelancer:

• Get recommendations: Ask friends, colleagues, or other businesses for recommendations.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials to get a sense of the writer’s or agency’s reputation.
• Look for experience: Make sure the writer or agency has experience working with businesses in your industry.
• Get a proposal: Ask for a proposal that outlines the scope of work, fees, and timeline.
• Communicate clearly: Be clear about your expectations and goals from the outset.

By following these tips, you can be sure to find the perfect partner to help you create high-quality content that will achieve your business goals.