Writing Services
Ardis Berghoff, Chicago Freelance Writer
A set of core writing skills adjusted to the audience and medium drives solid writing for marketing, PR and employee communications. I love the long forms because there’s room to delve deeply into complex subjects. A nose for what’s relevant informs research and interviews. A clear voice (and maybe a clever metaphor) launches the piece, while well-organized ideas move the reader forward, rhythm rocks sentences, and headlines, subheads, decks and sidebars spark curiosity.
A Happy Client
I've worked with Ardis on a number of projects. She knows how to efficiently manage complex documentation projects and how to question subject matter experts. Most of all, Ardis knows how to write simply, clearly, concisely and effectively so that readers understand. I've recommended her to others and look forward to working with her again.
I love the short forms, too, because they are word puzzles. Pack the message, brand and a call to action into a rotating, three-panel digital ad, five words per panel. Get readers to click from an e-blast to a registration form using a provocative subject line that indicates what’s in it for them. Or show the news value of a program launch in a press release that quotes folks from four organizations and juggles industry lingo.
I can help you with:
Feature Articles and White Papers – Your leaders, partners and company positioned as authorities in their industry via clearly written, informative copy. I step back from complex subjects to find the thread that will make a lengthy piece vibrant from start to finish. Voice, tone and language are appropriate to the topic. I can develop the piece from scratch; heavily edit first drafts originating in-house; or do a final edit and proof.
Marketing Collateral – Corporate image pieces, brochures, customer magazines, case studies and one-sheets that support your strategy for selling services, products and brand. I write in a variety of styles. Carefully constructed headers and paragraphs hit the hot points and complement graphic design.
Websites and Digital Content – Website and intranet copy, emails and ads developed for skimmers and deep divers and written to fit the screen.
News Releases and Fact Sheets – I’ve written hundreds of these to launch products, services and programs. I play up what’s newsworthy (or make it so) and incorporate your PR department’s style.
Employee Communications – From one article to entire publications, I write material for intranets and newsletters that motivates employees and informs them about company news and programs.
Project Management – Clients often have me manage approvals, photography, design, printing, mailing or posting online.
There’s More – Advertorials, ad copy, catalogs, signage, event programs, conference itineraries and more…developed to support single projects or larger campaigns.
My Background
I graduated with honors and a degree in English from Vassar College (Poughkeepsie, NY). Then I worked for Fortune 500 companies, a major non-profit and two PR firms. In the process, I managed international publicity campaigns, publications and community relations programs. I became an independent corporate writer in 1995 (under the shingle Clerestory Communications) and have freelanced full time ever since.