by 
Content is one of those tasks that always feels important, but rarely feels urgent – until it suddenly is.
You know it matters. You know it helps people find you, trust you, and choose you. But when your to-do list is already packed with client work, admin, and everything else… writing blog posts or updating your website can quickly fall to the bottom of the pile.
If you’re stuck between trying to keep up with content yourself or wondering if it’s time to hire a content manager, this post is for you.
We’ll look at the benefits and limitations of DIY content, the signs it’s time to get help, and what actually happens when you hire a content manager to take this off your plate.
What a content manager actually does
When people hear “content manager,” they often assume it means someone who just writes blog posts. But the role is usually far more strategic – and valuable – than that.
A freelance content manager can help you with a variety of tasks, depending on their skills. Here are the kinds of things I help my clients with:
- Content strategy advice
- Content calendars and planning
- Blog and article writing
- Ghost writing magazine articles
- Keyword research
- SEO website copywriting
- Photography
- Case study writing
- Ebook and white paper creation
- Email content and newsletters
- Social media support
- Content editing and rewriting
- Proofreading
- Sales tools and documents
- Canva graphics.
Think of it like having someone in your corner who not only writes, but also helps shape your voice, clarify your message, and keep your content machine ticking over.
When DIY content makes sense
There’s absolutely a time and place for writing your own content – especially when you’re just starting out, you know your subject inside out, or your budget is tight.
DIY can work well when:
-
You enjoy writing and are reasonably good at it.
- You have time and mental space to do it properly.
-
You’ve already got a clear plan and just need to implement it.
-
You don’t need to publish consistently.
- You’re getting good results from the content you produce.
If that’s you – great. But for many service business owners, DIY content only works for so long before it becomes a bottleneck.
Signs that it is time to stop DIYing and hire help
You might be ready to hire a content manager if:
-
You’re constantly behind on content tasks.
-
Your website has not been updated in months.
-
Writing takes you ages – or you dread it.
-
You have no content plan and no time to create one.
-
Your content feels inconsistent or half-finished.
-
You are not getting found in search results.
- Your website isn’t generating sales or leads.
-
You keep saying “we should write about that”… but never do.
- You struggle to assert your status as an expert in your industry.
If any of these feel uncomfortably familiar, it is worth exploring what a content manager could take off your plate.
What you gain when you hire a content manager
Hiring a content manager is not just about delegation – it is about creating space, consistency, and momentum in your business.
Here is what you get:
-
More time back to focus on your core work.
-
Consistent, high-quality content that builds trust.
-
A clearer brand voice and message.
-
Improved SEO and search visibility.
-
Less stress and decision fatigue.
-
Someone who is proactively moving things forward.
It is about having a trusted partner who can take ideas, half-finished drafts, and good intentions – and turn them into finished, published content that works.
What it looks like to work with a freelance content manager
At Words By Cornelia, I offer a flexible monthly service called Words On Tap – a set number of hours each month that you can use however you need.
Some months that might mean website tweaks and a blog post. Other times, it might be a case study and email content. The hours are yours to use how you need.
There is no need to hire someone in-house, and no ongoing commitment. You simply pre-pay to secure your place in my schedule, and we work together based on your goals and priorities.
FAQs: Frequently asked questions about hiring a content manager
What does a content manager do?
A content manager plans, creates, edits, and oversees marketing content such as blog posts, website copy, case studies, and emails. They ensure your content is strategic, consistent, and aligned with your goals.
When should I hire a content manager?
It is time to hire a content manager when you are struggling to keep up with content, not seeing results from your efforts, or need help creating consistent, strategic messaging that builds trust.
How do I hire a content manager?
Start by identifying your content needs, then look for someone with both writing and strategy experience. Many business owners hire a freelance content manager on a monthly retainer for flexible, ongoing support.
Is hiring a content manager worth it?
Yes – if you are spending hours writing content that does not convert, or avoiding content altogether, hiring a content manager can save you time, reduce stress, and help your business grow.
Conclusion: Is it time to outsource?
If you are keeping up with your content and it feels easy – fantastic.
But if it is starting to feel like a chore, a stress point, or a missed opportunity, it might be time to consider getting support.
Hiring a content manager does not mean giving up control. It means gaining the time, structure, and clarity to keep your content consistent – without it taking over your brain.
📧 Curious if this could work for you? I offer free Zoom chats to explore what kind of support you might need and tailor a plan to suit your business. Simply fill in the form below to get the conversation started.
