November 1, 2010

Efficiency Tip: Templates

I have found that many of the project types I work on follow a similar structure. A "How-To" article follows a certain pattern and even a Press Release  is written in a specific way with common elements. Even though the content is different in each project, the structure is constant. Look for these constants and set up a template in your word processor for each type of project you write to streamline your efforts.

Label each section of the template and leave yourself a note about the specific information required for that section. Don't forget a section for links to supporting information, and even affiliate links that are appropriate for the project. Organizing your work in this way allows you to concentrate on the content and still have good structure. Remember, the less you have to think about, the faster you will become.

Another thing benefit to this occurs when you are interviewing a client for their project. You will have a handy reminder of what specific information you need to have to complete the project with minimum edits. When you consistently complete projects accurately and on time your customer base will grow and you will always have plenty of work.