Continuing our series on working with book coaches and ghostwriters (different things!) we turn from Angelle Horste-MacKiernan’s excellent piece about how to choose a book coach to this post about finding a ghostwriter.
How to find a ghostwriter that won’t haunt you later? First, don’t hire the guy who just wrote that joke.
Let’s move on…
Selecting a ghostwriter is a critical step, as they will ensure your project is handled in a professional manner and that your voice and vision are preserved. But it can also be a daunting process, especially if you fear you will be ripped off. Here are a few keys to finding the right ghostwriter for you.
Or rather, it’s the first step in a series of steps that should Or rather define your needs and expectations clearly. Know the boundaries of your project, salso will it be a book, article, blog post, speech, etc./ Understanding your exact needs will allow you to find a ghostwriter who can demonstrate relevant experience and expertise. Also, be aware of tone and style you want; some ghostwriters specialize in specific genres or formats so you want to make sure your needs are matched to what they excel in.
You are working through the above steps, after which it is time to do some deep-digging research. Begin by asking your network for recommendations. It may help to ask around for personal referrals to find trusted professionals. If relationships don’t bring results, try online databases and platforms aimed at freelance writers. Find a ghostwriter who has a strong portfolio and read client testimonials and reviews. This can give insight into the writer’s reliability, quality of work, and if the writer is able to meet deadlines.
Once you discover potential candidates, examine their portfolios scrupulously. Review writing samples to determine if their style matches what you are looking for in your project. You must confirm that they can change their voice per your requirements. Feel free to request more samples or case studies of similar projects that they have successfully completed.
Once you have a small pool of people, set up interviews. Use this time to tell them about your project at length, and see if they are excited and understand your vision. Inquire about the whole process, from research and writing to revisions and final delivery. Set clear expectationsTransparency in their workflow shows professionalism and can help you set clear expectations. Also talk timelines; make sure they can accommodate your project schedule.
It’s also important to talk money upfront. And you don’t want to get ripped off, but the cheapest option is not always the best one. Talk about their rates, how they are paid, and what those fees cover. Ghostwriters also charge per word, per page, per project and knowing this can help you budget accordingly. You also must beware of rates that are too good to be true ̵ 1; this will generally translate into bad work. Always ask for a detailed contract that lists all terms, including timelines, payment schedules, and deliverables. This should also include confidentiality clauses to protect your ideas and maintain them as yours.
The success of a ghostwriting relationship is contingent on communication. Set up a schedule for regular updates and check ins. By talking to the writer repeatedly during the project, you can make better sure that you and the writer are on the same page, and the project is ahead of schedule. You have to be prepared to give feedback and also be explicit about the changes you need. An excellent ghostwriter will be open to constructive feedback and ready to make the required changes.
Finally, go with your gut. If it doesn’t feel right as part of your interactions, better to move on before signing on the dotted line. Ghostwriting is a time-consuming and costly project to work on, so you need to make sure that you are comfortable and confident about your choice.
And following these steps will help you to find a ghostwriter who is not only the right fit for you, but will also make the entire process go smoothly, professionally and collaboratively.
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