About us
Write for Business was set up by Helen Coulman in 2004. The company provides services in editing and proofreading, copywriting, and translation from Dutch to English. It specialises in general business texts, financial texts and web texts.

Credentials
Helen was born and bred in England but has lived and worked in the Netherlands since 2000.  She has a diploma in copywriting as well as a Cambridge certificate to teach English as a foreign language, but her background is actually in finance.  She worked for many years as a chartered certified accountant and senior manager for various (inter)national companies in England and the Netherlands.

"Some people find it strange that I have gone from crunching numbers to composing texts.  Yet many of the skills that I acquired as an accountant help me as an editor, translator and copywriter. 

As an accountant, I had to convey complex, financial information to a non-financial audience which meant avoiding jargon and using clear and concise language.  Communication with business partners such as banks, suppliers and clients required clarity and an awareness of the audience, and reports had to be cohesive, persuasive and logical.

Of course, like all accountants, I recognize the importance of accuracy and detail!' 

Her work as a finance manager also helps her appreciate the many issues which businesses face on a day-to-day basis.

"When you write a website, translate a brochure or edit a director’s report, it’s essential to understand the content. You also need to know who the reader is and what the style and tone should be. 

Since I have worked with many disciplines over the years – from engineering and manufacturing to sales and HR –I’m fully aware of the customs and standards that exist throughout an organisation.  That knowledge helps create the right text for the client."

Philosophy
Write for Business believes it's not enough to simply correct an English business letter, translate a report or write a brochure.  It's vital to understand the message behind the words, appreciate who the reader is and, above all, know the aim.  That is why a close working relationship with clients is valued, and requirements are met - wherever possible - with flexibility and professionalism. 

Location
We are located in the Netherlands, near the university town of Leiden, but no matter where you are in the world, we are happy to help you.  Visits to client's premises can be arranged for those based in the Netherlands.