Working with a copywriter helps you to ensure that you get the quality copy that you need when you need it.

If that copywriter works remotely, however, you need to find ways to effectively communicate back and forth. You may even use multiple types of communication over the course of a project, as each has its own benefits and drawbacks.

To help ensure that you and your copywriter stay on the same page, here are some suggestions for how to keep the lines of communication open:

• Email: The old standby for virtual discussion, email is great for sending documents and general correspondence that doesn’t need an immediate response. If you’re sending order details, clarifications about a job or other details with a large amount of information, email is your best bet.
  
  Not only can you send an email at any time of the day or night, but your copywriter can also check back on specific details at any time without you having to resend it. The problem with email is that you aren’t guaranteed an immediate response, which can be troublesome if you need to update things right away. 

• Texting: Despite how long it’s been around, text messaging still hasn’t seen as wide of an adoption in professional circles as email. Text messaging helps to make up for some of the drawbacks of email, as a text is more likely to be checked quickly.
  
  Messages are usually shorter, though, and non-photo attachments aren’t nearly as common with texting. You also need to have a good relationship with your copywriter before you can start texting, as you’ll have to get the writer’s cell number. 

• Skype: For instant communication, Skype and other video VOIP services are the way to go. You can place calls directly from your computer, getting both audio and video so you can talk to your copywriter in real time. You can also send files and text over the Skype service, allowing you to send notes or necessary data even as you talk. Your copywriter has to be at the computer (or a mobile device with Skype installed) for this to be effective, however. 

• IM/Chat: You might think that chat rooms and instant messaging software went out with the 2000’s, but they’re still fairly common methods of communication. Facebook Messenger is one of the most popular IM/chat services in the world, and your copywriter may suggest others as well. Skype can even be used as a basic text-only IM program if you don’t make a call. Messages can usually be sent at any time, though chat does require that both of you have the same software installed. 

• Phone: If you really want to get in touch with your copywriter and aren’t at the computer, you can always go back to the way things were done before the Internet took over: Pick up the phone and call. It may seem like an old-fashioned way of doing things, but so long as you have your copywriter’s phone number and they’re around to answer it can be incredibly effective. You may need to send a follow-up email to attach any files or supplementary information, however. 
• Talk About Communication: When starting work with a new copywriter, one of your first conversations should be about how you’ll communicate during the project. Find out what your copywriter prefers and share your own preferences, then work toward a middle ground.
  
  You should also set rules about when it’s appropriate to call or send message requests and when it’s not, and whether any types of communication aren’t allowed. It may seem weird to talk about how you’re going to talk, but a good conversation about communication at the beginning will help eliminate trouble down the line.