One of the benefits of working with freelance writers (or freelancers in general) is that everything can be done online.

Whether you’re from the US or are residing in one of the many cities here in the Philippines, it’s easy to find a reliable and trustworthy freelancer for a writing project for your business.

And because everything can be done online, there are plenty of tools to use that are ideal for someone who values productivity and efficiency. And as the client, you can use these tools to save time and get tasks done quickly.

As a freelance writer, I know and use a range of web and desktop apps that can make tasks such as sending and sharing files, holding meetings, and viewing submissions time-efficient and easy for you. Here are seven that I recommend:

1. File sharing tools

For sharing documents, PDFs, and all kinds of files needed for the project. Some file sharing apps provide a shareable shortlink to for easy and quick sharing. With these tools, you don’t have to attach your files to email and send bulks to your freelance writer.

Stef’s top choices:

• Dropbox
• Let’s Crate
• CloudApp

2. Online word processors

For viewing or creating documents, such as guides and instructional materials, for your project. You can also use these tools to view submissions of articles if sent as a .doc or .pdf file.

Stef’s top choices:

• Google Docs
• Office Web Apps

3. Proofreading/plagiarism checking tools

For checking articles, blog posts, and content submitted for plagiarism, spelling and grammatical errors. Normally, you’d hire a freelance writer who has a great command of the language. But it’s always best to check the work first before using these submissions for your business.

Stef’s top choices:

• After the Deadline
• Copyscape (premium version at $0.05 per search)
• The Plagiarism Checker (premium version at $8/month)

4. Project management tools

A team of freelance writers is more challenging than monitoring a single freelancer, so use a project management tool to designate tasks and track the progress of your freelance writing project.

Stef’s top choices:

• Asana (free)
• Wunderkit (free)
• TeamGantt (starts at $10/month)
• Basecamp (starts at $20/month)

5. Communication tools

A vital component of a freelance project is communication between client and freelancer. You’ll need communication tools that can facilitate meetings and that can help you contact your freelancer/s as needed.

Stef’s top choices:

• Skype
• Google Chat or Google+ Hangouts, if you use Google+
• GoToMeeting (starts at $49/month)

I hope these five tools will help you in all of your freelance writing projects. Till next time!