Hiring exceptional writers is crucial for the success of any content-driven operation. While good writers may require extensive research and adapt to various tones, great writers not only meet these standards but also consistently deliver on time, follow instructions meticulously, and enhance operational efficiency. The impact of a poor freelance hire can be significant, leading to delays and added stress. To find great writers, it is essential to implement a thorough hiring process that includes rigorous testing. A key component of this process is the "hiring funnel," a method used by leading content production companies to ensure a steady influx of high-quality writers. One of the most effective strategies for improving this funnel is to assess candidates' ability to follow instructions at every stage of the hiring process. The first step in this approach begins with the job advertisement. Given the volume of applications, it is impractical to test every candidate. Therefore, a strategic filtering method can be employed. By incorporating two specific instructions in the job ad, a significant number of applicants can be eliminated right away. The first instruction is to ask applicants not to use AI in their responses. This is particularly relevant on platforms like Upwork, where a large percentage of applications may be generated by AI. While this method is not foolproof, it helps identify candidates who pay attention to details. The second instruction involves requesting something specific from the applicants, such as a brief description of their favorite pet in a set word count. This not only filters out generic responses but also provides insight into the applicant's writing ability. By implementing these instructions, it is expected that around 90% of applicants will overlook one or both, allowing for a quick elimination of those who are not a good fit. The remaining candidates can then be evaluated based on the quality of their responses, further streamlining the selection process. This method has proven to be a time-saver, allowing for a more efficient hiring process. For those looking for a comprehensive guide on hiring great writers, including templates and detailed steps, resources such as eBooks and standard operating procedures are available to assist in building effective content operations.