These tips are based on my 30+ years as a freelancer for everything from the local paper to Playboy. I hope the information helps you hold on to great talent.

For more tips, visit www.thewordfactory.com.

You'll get more targeted work faster if you clearly define the scope, purpose and audience of the project before assigning it. In a bureaucratic situation, this may require pre-approval by higher-ups, but that's much easier (and less painful) to do upfront. Eliminating guesswork and unnecessary revisions is key to holding on to prized freelancers.

Download a handy worksheet to guide you in scoping: bit.ly/UseTheCPA.

Great freelancers understand you want work as quickly as possible, and we aim to deliver. Experienced writers know how to get the most using time and resources available, but unreasonable deadlines almost always yield less-than-optimal outcomes. Work with writers to develop a deadline that works. Otherwise, busy freelancers may cut you off in favor of clients who are more realistic.

You get what you pay for. Talented writers deliver high-quality, effective content fast and without hassle. That's worth their fees.

Fair rates keep freelancers loyal. If you constantly low-ball the top writers in your area, not only do we stop taking your gigs, but we'll warn others to steer clear.

Nobody likes feeling ignored. And great clients make it a point to be prompt in responding to freelancers' queries.

Being unresponsive is more than just bad manners. It slows down project velocity because we can't get the resources we need to move forward or make smart decisions. A quick heads up and deadline adjustment go a long way in building and maintaining strong relationships with freelancers.

We know you've got other priorities. We know how meetings can drag on. Finding time to turn around reviews and approvals keeps the project on schedule and shows you care.

We're in this together, so your train and ours have to run on time. Plus, few things say "I don't respect you" like making someone rush while you take your time.

Great clients give constructive and actionable feedback that makes the writing better. Yet too many clients give comments that don't make sense ("it needs more crispin") or aren't actionable.

When possible, provide an example of what you want. It's also helpful to tell us what's good, what would make it better and what's missing.

Get more tips for giving actionable feedback: bit.ly/o9dNRy.

You know how cranky you get when your paycheck's late? Yeah. Us, too.

Freelancers remain loyal to clients who pay on time. That also makes us more likely to work with you when you do need longer to pay. Slow payment is one of the easiest ways to lose a great writer.

All things being equal, we always choose to work with people who are nice, easy to get along with. This is especially important when the stakes are high and/or time is tight. Great clients know it's a two-way street. They possess a team mentality, and are easy to work with. So do top freelancers.

Get more advice on working with freelancers and creating effective content at www.thewordfactory.com.