Joe Roy
3,997 followers
http://clear-writing-with-mr-clarity.blogspot.com/
Freelance writer: Web content, email ads, brochures, articles, white papers, and speeches. Corporate and agency experience. http://www.joeroy.com
Listorious Interview
During my career, I’ve written more than 100 white papers. Here are ten things I like about writing a white paper:
1. It’s an opportunity to research more deeply than I would for an article.
2. The research often introduces me to new experts.
3. My interviewing techniques often help the client company strengthen its messaging.
4. A white paper is a showcase for my deep experience. Shallowly experienced writers tend to fail conspicuously on white papers.
5. Every white paper is a chance to keep polishing my skills.
6. When a white paper is complete, I get a feeling of accomplishment.
7. I enjoy helping the client’s salespeople. Sales reps love white papers. White papers are the intellectual artillery that supports them on the front lines.
8. I also enjoy knowing that the client will gain real value. A white paper offers a high return on investment (ROI). It can add thousands or millions in gross profit, by overcoming sales resistance and shortening sales cycles.
9. White papers are occasionally used by reporters who are researching a company or its products. This is residual value.
10. A white paper also delivers other kinds of residual value. For example, clients often mine the interview transcripts for ideas, sound bites, and PowerPoint bullets.
In short, writing a white paper produces financial and intellectual gain, both for the client and for the writer.
