Can't Write? How To Work With A Ghostwriter

1. Referrals. Was the ghostwriter referred to you by a colleague?
2. Experience. Has the ghostwriter worked on projects like yours? How long have they been in business?
3. References. Check references and ask detailed questions.
4. Get samples. Ask for samples of work that is similar to your project.
5. Language. Do they speak and write fluently in the language you will be using?
6. Costs. Find out how the ghostwriter charges. By the word, page or entire project?

1. Decide on the specifics of your ghostwriting project. Decide on a topic, a deadline, how many drafts and edits you expect to be included in the fee.

2. Determine your target audience by age, gender, occupation, etc. and be specific.

3. Create an outline of what you want covered in your ghostwriting project. If you are clear upfront your ghostwriter will deliver his or her best work.

4. Once you've chosen a ghostwriter negotiate payment and contract terms first. Many ghostwriters charge a deposit or in-advance payment on projects that they accept as a standard for doing business.

5. Remember that your ghostwriter is not your employee. Freelance writers offer their services on a contractual basis and they will have other clients to service and other deadlines to meet.

6. Have reasonable expectations about the delivery date of your project. All work takes time. Try to offer new projects far enough in advance that your ghostwriter has time to produce his/her best work for you.

7. Allow your ghostwriter to offer their opinions and suggestions about your project. They have experience with writing that you may not have so be wise and listen.

8. Be reasonable. If you receive a draft that does not please you don't reject it out right. When offering specific editing requests try to explain why you are making your request. This can help your ghostwriter learn your particular preferences.

9. Offer praise and a testimonial for work well done. Offer specific feedback throughout the scope of the project and when it is finished.

10. When you find a ghostwriter you like offer additional assignments. One of the best ways to guarantee that a professional is always enthusiastic about writing for you is to offer projects on a regular basis.

11. Be generous about recommending your ghostwriter to other professionals. Ghostwriters need clients to stay in business and you can help assure that your ghostwriter stays in business by recommending them.

Some of the information you will need to complete a ghostwriter contract includes:

1. The working title of your project.
2. Length and description of the project.
3. How many drafts and edits included in the project.
4. Deadline for drafts and final versions..
5. Deposits, fees and payment terms.
6. Any expenses associated with the project and who will pay them.
7. Copyright, Trademarks, and Other Proprietary Rights.
8. Confidentiality clause.
9. A termination clause.

Consider using an attorney to review ghostwriting contracts if the project is complicated and time consuming.