How Do I Hire a Ghostwriter?
Deciding to hire a ghostwriter to assist you in writing your first or next book is a smart move! When you want to get your work done more efficiently, hiring an expert with more experience and knowledge than you have in a specific niche is a great way to move towards your goals faster and more efficiently. However, going through the process of hiring a ghostwriter may take weeks to months to find the ghostwriter that is a great fit for you and your writing goals.
You’ll want to consider many elements, including personality, work ethic, transparency, contracts, book coaching, book editing, and other services the ghostwriter can or may provide in your writing and publishing journey.
Here are some tips on how to hire a ghostwriter and what to look for when hiring a ghostwriter. Take time to consider all of these aspects when you’re looking for a ghostwriter to work with when publishing your book.
Hiring a ghostwriter is a little more tricky than you might think. But with the right attitude, and these helpful tips, you’ll find one in no time!
Not All Writers are Ghostwriters
Surprisingly enough, many writers don’t like to ghostwrite! Many writers find ghostwriting to be very energy-intensive and difficult work. However, ghostwriting is the best service to offer as it plays into all my skill sets. While I also offer other content marketing, ghostwriting is at the top of my list with my services.
While you may have a writer you know or have worked with before, they may not offer ghostwriting as one of their services. Also, don’t assume that every writer offers to ghostwrite - they may only offer blog or newsletter services, exclusively offer book editing, or they may only offer grant writing or press releases.
It’s important to note that each writer, like many other verticals, offers a select niche of writing services. Beware of writers that offer a wide variety of services that do not connect, such as ghostwriting and press releases. These are two very different services that require a different skill set. While some writers have a broader skill set, you’ll want to find a ghostwriter whose primary service is ghostwriting.
Write Down a List of Services You Would Like Your Ghostwriter to Perform
Start by writing down a list of services you seek, then look around for ghostwriters to work with on your project. A ghostwriter may offer services: writing your book, book editing, cover design, book formatting, and book marketing. While all ghostwriters will offer book writing, not all ghostwriters offer book editing. If your ghostwriter must be a one-stop shop for most or all of your checklist, then ask them about what they offer and their experience behind the ghostwriting services they offer.
Next, jot down a group of values or preferences that are non-negotiables for your ghostwriter. For example, you may prefer working with a female journalist or writer with a background in a specialty such as health and wellness. Write down your list on paper or on an electronic document. I suggest getting a notebook to write in and keeping track of your thoughts, questions, and ideas for hiring a ghostwriter. You’ll also want to take notes when interviewing ghostwriters and jot them down in your notebook.
In addition to keeping track of your thoughts, writing is a process for your brain to move forward. Scrawling your words on paper creates a great landing pad for ideas and documenting information. A simple notebook works perfectly fine, or, if you like, purchase a leather-bound journal from a local store or artist if you want a more artistic touch to your process.
Where Do I Find a Ghostwriter?
Valuable places to look for ghostwriters are LinkedIn, online writer’s groups, and online platforms that specialize in or have ghostwriters available so you can find ghostwriters who offer services you have on your list. I would suggest starting with LinkedIn and looking under the hashtag ghostwriter. You will find a myriad of ghostwriters available to interview on LinkedIn.
Here is a lost of some popular places online where you can find a ghostwriter:
Next, narrow down your list of ghostwriters you want to interview. Depending on the ghostwriter's services, you can eliminate some ghostwriters from your potential writing list. Ghostwriters provide different services depending on their expertise level and skill set. Find out what skills a ghostwriter offers and start interviewing ghostwriters.
Why You Should Interview Your Ghostwriter
When you’re looking for a ghostwriter, you’ll want to have a discovery call with them. Many ghostwriters offer a 15-minute video chat or call to find out how you ‘click’ with the person on the other side of the camera. Spending 15 minutes or more on a video chat is an investment well worth your time, as you will be working extensively with your ghostwriter for the next few weeks, months, or even up to a year or more. Hire a ghostwriter you like to spend time with because you don’t want to hire a ghostwriter only to have friction because your personalities clash.
During your interview, make sure to discuss the details of the work you want to be completed. Be as specific as possible for the ghostwriter to give you an accurate price on their proposal. Topics and items you wish to talk about with your ghostwriter in the interview can include:
Any background research which the ghostwriter must complete
Time limits, deadlines, and goals for the project
What information can you provide for the ghostwriter - outline, video content, or blog content?
For ghostwriting a book, what length would you like your book to be? A typical book is about 150 pages long.
Do you want to co-author with your ghost, give them a byline, or is your writing a true ghost (you are the author, and the ghostwriter does not have credit for the content written)
Write down your questions beforehand to be prepared and make the most out of your session. Popular ghostwriters will charge for their sessions, so be ready to pay for a consultation with a ghostwriter. Also, ask any other questions which come to mind when you are in your session and get a feel for the ghostwriter and if you think you click with this writer.
Do you need assistance getting started on your new book or picking up where you left off on writing your book? Have you finished your book, and you're looking for an editor who can complete your book edits quickly? Are you looking for an experienced author, book coach, and ghostwriter to work with you as a team to write and publish your new book?
Find out how Write For You can work with you to create book content that tells your story. Book your complimentary discovery call today to find out how you can work together with Write For You to achieve your goals and sign up for my complimentary online course coming out soon: How to Write Your Book in 100 days or less.