The Free Ghostwriter Interview: 13 Simple Questions to Eliminate The Worst and Find The Best
You’ve finally decided it’s time to write your book! Congratulations! You have embarked on a journey towards getting your message out there to the world. This is a dream come true for most people, and it’s something that often ends up on their bucket list without ever getting started.
Writing a book is a challenging endeavor, requiring time, effort, perseverance, strong writing skills, and a multitude of other qualities. Sure, it may sound easy at first, but if it were truly effortless, everyone would be writing their own book. However, fear not! There are steps you can take to ensure your book is written quickly and efficiently. One effective approach is finding the perfect ghostwriter for your book.
A ghostwriter can be your invaluable partner in bringing your vision to life. They possess the skills and expertise to transform your ideas into a compelling narrative. But how do you go about finding the ideal ghostwriter who aligns with your creative vision? Conducting a thorough ghostwriter interview is key.
During the ghostwriter interview process, you can delve into their experience, writing style, and understanding of your subject matter. Ask about their previous projects, their approach to collaboration, and their ability to meet deadlines. By finding the perfect ghostwriter for your book, you’ll have a trusted ally to help you achieve your writing goals efficiently and effectively.
Remember, writing a book is an exciting and fulfilling endeavor, and with the right ghostwriter by your side, you can bring your story to life in a way that captivates readers and leaves a lasting impact. So, don’t hesitate to embark on this journey with the help of a skilled and compatible ghostwriter who understands your unique vision.
What is a Ghostwriter?
Let’s begin by defining the term ‘ghostwriter‘. What does that mean?
This is a good definition:
A person who writes one or numerous speeches, books, articles, etc., for another person who is named as or presumed to be the author. – Dictionary.Com
That sounds simple enough. You’re hiring a professional writer to create your book for you. Your name appears as the author.
Let’s go into a bit more detail.
A ghostwriter is a competent writer who will help you get the ideas and concepts out of your mind into book (or other) form. They will effectively communicate with you, listen to your needs, manage the project, and ensure everything gets done with the highest quality. They are experienced contractors or consultants specializing in writing books. When hiring a ghostwriter for a book, you gain ownership of the finished product as a ‘work for hire’ project, unless stated otherwise in the contract.
Is hiring a ghostwriter for a book common? Well, according to Derek Lewis, a skilled ghostwriter in his own right, some famous ghostwritten books include:
- Casino Royale (James Bond) by Ian Fleming
- The Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy
- Invisible by James Patterson
- An American Life by Ronald Reagan
- Living History by Hillary Clinton
- Going Rogue by Sarah Palin
- The Autobiography of Ulysses S. Grant
- 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R Covey
You’d be surprised how many books have been written by ghostwriters and not the person named on the cover.
Ghostwriting a book goes beyond just writing. It requires project management skills, effective client communication, interviewing and research abilities, and the capacity to meet deadlines and budgets. Some ghostwriters may lack proficiency in these areas, leading to project delays and potential client dissatisfaction.
In my career as a ghostwriter, I’ve written over 48 books for clients and published more than 60 books of my own, including several under different pen names. Most ghostwriters work diligently to deliver high-quality writing for their clients, ensuring a successful collaboration when hiring a ghostwriter for a book.”
How do you Interview a ghostwriter?
However, like any profession, it’s essential to understand some key aspects before committing your money or signing contracts.
Reputable ghostwriters offer a complimentary ghostwriter interview, typically lasting for an hour, to discuss your project and outline their process. Similar to a job interview, the questions you pose during this session can help you make an informed decision and steer clear of potential issues. Don’t hesitate to ask these important questions. After all, it’s your book, and you deserve the best.
Please note that the ghostwriter interview can be conducted through various means such as Zoom, Skype, phone, or even in-person. Here are a few relevant questions to ask during the ghostwriter interview.
So, sit back, have these questions ready, and your interview with a ghostwriter will go fine.
1. Has the Ghostwriter Published Anything?
Did you know that many books written by ghostwriters never see the light of day?
I know it may sound surprising. One would expect professional writers to complete books that eventually get published.
After all, the ultimate goal of writing a book is to get it published, right?
While some clients approach ghostwriters with the intention of self-publishing, rather than pursuing traditional publishers, a significant number of books never reach the stage of being self-published. This is not the fault of the ghostwriter, as the responsibility for publishing typically lies with the client.
A book is not truly finished until it is published and made available to the public. Published books can be found in bookstores, libraries, and online platforms where they can be purchased and enjoyed by readers. Moreover, published books often undergo professional editing and proofreading, ensuring a polished final product. On the other hand, unpublished books remain stored on a computer, serving no purpose or benefit to anyone.
Due to non-disclosure agreements, ghostwriters often face limitations in providing samples of their work. Additionally, they are typically not responsible for editing, proofreading, cover creation, publication, and promotion. As self-publishing requires these additional steps to be handled by the client or other hired professionals, many books penned by ghostwriters remain unpublished and fail to reach a wider audience. It’s important to note that these factors are beyond the control of the ghostwriter.
To address this concern, during the ghostwriter interview, consider asking prospective ghostwriters about the number of their works, both ghostwritten and self-authored, that have been published either traditionally or through self-publishing.
If a ghostwriter has written books but none have made it to print, it may indicate a failure to fulfill the final and vital step of the book-writing process: making the work available to the public. While this shouldn’t automatically disqualify a ghostwriter, it is a factor worth considering alongside other variables when selecting a suitable ghostwriter for your project.
On the other hand, if a ghostwriter has successfully written and published their own books, it demonstrates their confidence in their writing abilities and their experience in bringing works to the public eye. Additionally, they can provide samples of their own published works, offering insights into their writing style.
Remember, evaluating a ghostwriter’s track record and ability to deliver a published book can help you make an informed decision during the ghostwriter interview process.
2. Does the Ghostwriter Like Your Idea?
To ensure a smooth collaboration and a high-quality end product, it’s important to find a ghostwriter who aligns with your subject matter and shares your perspective. Many ghostwriters may accept projects despite disagreeing with the subject matter, which can lead to conflicts and compromised work. For instance, a ghostwriter who strongly supports gun rights might struggle to write an objective book about gun control. While they may accept the project for personal reasons, their ethical concerns can impact the quality of their work.
Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize honesty and open communication with your ghostwriter. Encourage them to share their opinions and engage in constructive discussions, even if there are differences of opinion. By fostering an environment where differing viewpoints can be respectfully debated, you can ensure a more authentic and engaging book.
Remember, it’s not advisable to work with a ghostwriter who simply follows your instructions without question. Such an approach often results in subpar outcomes. Instead, seek a ghostwriter who is willing to engage in logical and rational discussions about the subject matter and any ethical concerns that may arise.
By finding a ghostwriter who is genuinely interested and aligned with your topic, you’ll increase the chances of producing a compelling and well-crafted book.
3. How Difficult Is Ghostwriting?
Writing a book, whether it’s a brochure or an epic fantasy saga, is no simple feat. When engaging with a ghostwriter, it’s essential to ensure they possess the necessary skills and expertise. While they may talk a good game, it’s crucial to question them thoroughly to gauge their honesty and capabilities. Walking the walk is just as important as talking the talk.
Writing a book involves various specialized tasks beyond the act of writing itself. A successful ghostwriting project requires effective project management, meeting deadlines, and setting clear goals, among other responsibilities.
Consider the essential steps involved in writing your book:
- Conducting interviews, either in person or online,
- Performing thorough research,
- Compiling and interpreting gathered information to incorporate intelligently into the writing,
- Ensuring proper citation of all sources,
- Maintaining consistent and high-quality formatting throughout the manuscript,
- Completing revisions, editing, proofreading, and preparing the book for publication.
During the ghostwriter interview, ask pertinent questions to assess their understanding of the comprehensive scope of the work. Are they skilled communicators? Do they ask insightful questions and take detailed notes? Are they actively engaged in conversation or merely going along with everything you say? Do they display genuine interest in your subject matter, or do they seem disinterested?
Furthermore, request a sample of their past work, even if it’s just a few pages, to evaluate their writing style and quality.
For instance, inquire about the ghostwriter’s approach to manuscript formatting. Will they utilize consistent and standardized styles within programs like Microsoft Word or Google Docs? Proper formatting using styles streamlines the self-publishing process, while inconsistent formatting can lead to significant headaches. Personally, one of my nightmares is formatting a book that lacks any styles whatsoever. Utilizing styles simplifies this task tremendously.
By asking the right questions and scrutinizing their past work, you can ensure that the ghostwriter you choose is well-equipped to handle the complexities of your book project.
4. Is the Writing Going to be Outsourced?
Sometimes, ghostwriters opt to outsource their work to other writers to save time and meet deadlines. This practice, known as outsourcing, can be acceptable as long as it is transparent, agreed upon, and the subcontractor produces high-quality written content.
However, it’s crucial to be aware of certain instances where ghostwriters may lack writing proficiency. These individuals may accept clients’ payments but rely on other writers who might not possess fluency in the book’s language or possess adequate writing skills. Surprisingly, there are even training courses that encourage this approach to handle more projects and increase income.
In the case of ghostwriting firms or agencies, the person you initially communicate with may not be the actual writer assigned to your book. It is essential to interview and approve the writer before finalizing the contract, ensuring that their name is specified in the agreement. While circumstances may change (such as a writer quitting), you should always retain the right to interview and approve any writer assigned to your project.
While many ghostwriters are independent freelancers who personally handle the writing process, there is still a possibility of inconsistent quality. Conversely, if you are working with an agency, remain vigilant about potential writer switches. There are valid reasons for such changes, like a writer quitting, passing away, or being reassigned to other projects. However, it’s important to note that a writer switch can result in a noticeable change in writing style. It’s not uncommon to come across books that have undergone multiple writer transitions, which can create a disjointed reading experience.
Nevertheless, it is worth mentioning that there are specific situations where it is appropriate for a ghostwriter to outsource certain tasks. Apart from writing, other aspects of the project, such as proofreading, editing, cover art, illustration, indexing, and research (depending on the subject), can be outsourced.
When engaging in the initial conversation with your ghostwriter, don’t hesitate to inquire if they will personally handle the writing or if they plan to outsource. Seek to understand their rationale and ensure that you are comfortable with their approach.
5. Will Your Ghostwriter Maintain Confidentiality?
Given the nature of the profession, the utmost secrecy is maintained unless you explicitly grant permission to disclose the arrangement. The primary advantage of hiring a ghostwriter is that they handle the writing while you receive the credit, recognition, and any associated royalties for the final product.
When finalizing your contract with the ghostwriter, ensure it includes a well-defined nondisclosure clause or consider having a separate agreement specifically addressing confidentiality, which both you and the ghostwriter should sign.
Furthermore, it is crucial to extend the requirement for confidentiality to any subcontractors involved in the project, including individuals being interviewed, editors, proofreaders, and others. Request that they also sign non-disclosure agreements to protect the confidentiality of your work.
However, there are exceptions when a ghostwriter is acknowledged as a contributor to the book. This acknowledgment can take various forms, such as mentioning them on the cover, in an acknowledgement page, or on the copyright page.
It is not uncommon for ghostwriters to request permission to include a few paragraphs or even a page or two from your manuscript in their portfolio. This request should be made explicitly, and your consent should be obtained before any material is shared. Creating a compelling portfolio is a common challenge for ghostwriters, primarily due to the strict confidentiality in ghostwriting projects. Most ghostwriters work under nondisclosure agreements, which prohibit them from revealing their role as the actual author of your book.
Remember, any breach of confidentiality by a ghostwriter without your explicit permission is considered unprofessional. During the ghostwriter interview process, they should refrain from disclosing details about other clients. If they do, exercise caution before proceeding with their services, unless they have obtained explicit permission from those clients.
That being said, it is acceptable for a ghostwriter to discuss their work in general terms. For example, they can mention writing a book on retirement planning, dentistry, or computer safety without revealing specific book titles or author names.
6. Does the Ghostwriter Understand the Legalities of Writing?
When it comes to writing a book, it is crucial to consider the legal implications, especially based on the subject matter and the approach taken.
Nonfiction books require factual accuracy, proper citations, and strict avoidance of plagiarism. On the other hand, works of fiction can run into legal issues if they defame recognizable individuals or excessively use trademarks, both of which can lead to potential lawsuits.
Inexperienced or low-end ghostwriters often lack awareness of the legal complexities involved in publishing a book. I recall an incident where a ghostwriter accepted a contract to write a book for an individual who aimed to expose the people involved in his incarceration. Unfortunately, the book ended up slandering individuals by revealing their negative qualities without altering their identities. As a result, the author faced numerous lawsuits for defamation, highlighting the legal liabilities introduced by the book’s publication.
Experienced ghostwriters, who charge higher rates for their services, typically have a comprehensive understanding of the legal aspects associated with publishing a book. However, to ensure compliance and stay out of legal trouble, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer specialized in this area. Seeking legal advice will provide you with valuable insights on what can and cannot be written, protecting you from potential legal consequences.
Remember, legal guidance is crucial to navigate the intricate landscape of book publishing, safeguarding your interests and ensuring a smooth and trouble-free journey as an author.
Please note that seeking professional legal advice is essential for accurate and personalized guidance in dealing with the legal aspects of publishing a book.
7. Does Your Ghostwriter Understand the Subject?
In the process of hiring a ghostwriter, it’s important to consider their familiarity with the subject matter of your book. While a ghostwriter may not possess an extensive understanding of your specific topic, their ability to conduct thorough research and interviews is crucial. By conducting a comprehensive ghostwriter interview, you can gauge their research skills and ensure they are equipped to handle your project effectively.
During the interview, inquire about their experience in researching and writing on similar subjects. A skilled ghostwriter will be transparent about their expertise and willingness to delve into the necessary research to deliver accurate and compelling content. By asking specific questions about their approach to research and their ability to capture your unique perspective, you can assess their suitability for your project.
Remember, the goal is to collaborate with a ghostwriter who can grasp the essence of your ideas and effectively translate them into a well-crafted book. While their initial knowledge may be limited, their research skills and dedication to understanding your subject matter will play a vital role in creating a successful outcome.
Choosing a ghostwriter who is committed to conducting thorough research and interviews ensures that your book will be a true reflection of your expertise and resonate with your target audience. So, don’t hesitate to dive deep into the ghostwriter interview process to find the perfect match for your project.
Please note that while a ghostwriter may not possess in-depth subject knowledge initially, their research and interview skills enable them to gather the necessary information to write effectively on various topics. The focus should be on their ability to adapt and learn rather than their initial familiarity with your subject matter.
8. Does the Ghostwriter Have a Contract and is it Well Written and Comprehensive?
Never enter into a ghostwriting relationship without a clearly written, understandable, and balanced ghostwriter interview agreement.
Ghostwriters are not lawyers, and in many cases, they don’t make enough money to engage the services of an attorney. Ghostwriting contracts are often pieced together from examples and templates found all over the Internet. Because of this, sometimes they tend to be a hodgepodge of unrelated clauses protecting the ghostwriter. This is especially true of inexperienced ghostwriters.
That’s assuming the ghostwriter even gives you a contract to sign. Amateurs tend to work without a contract. That’s a sign that you should steer clear of them.
I’ve seen some very poor contracts throughout my career. The worst simply stated the cost and payment terms – that kind of agreement doesn’t help very much.
Treat ghostwriting jobs just like you would any other type of business relationship. Would you hire a contractor to remodel your house without a clearly written, understandable ghostwriter interview agreement?
Demanding a well-written, equitable ghostwriter interview agreement doesn’t mean that you don’t trust your ghostwriter. A written agreement clarifies how the relationship is to operate, what is expected from each party, and what happens in the event the project is abandoned before the end.
If you get into a ghostwriting contract without a written agreement, both you and the ghostwriter are asking for trouble. Negotiate fair ghostwriter interview agreements regardless of the pressure to get started.
9. Will Your Ghostwriter Negotiate?
It’s important to find a skilled professional who can bring your ideas to life. Ghostwriters, like any businessperson, need to earn a fair income from their work. When negotiating rates with a ghostwriter, keep in mind the importance of fairness and the value of their expertise.
During the ghostwriter interview, discuss the project details, including the scope, timeline, and payment structure. While it’s acceptable to negotiate rates, remember that quality work requires reasonable compensation. Avoid extremely low rates that may compromise the dedication and attention given to your book. Ghostwriters should be able to make a living from their profession, and paying better rates increases the likelihood of receiving a high-quality product.
To ensure a successful collaboration, consider incorporating milestone-based payments into the contract. Start with a nonrefundable down payment, typically around 25% of the total cost, before any work begins. Then, schedule the remaining payments based on the completion of specific milestones, such as chapter drafts or key sections. This approach motivates the ghostwriter to deliver timely and satisfactory results, aligning their financial interests with the project’s progress.
Remember, the ghostwriter interview is an opportunity to assess their skills, experience, and compatibility with your project. It’s a chance to gauge their enthusiasm and understanding of your subject matter. By maintaining open communication and fair agreements, you can foster a productive relationship and ensure a successful collaboration with your ghostwriter.
10. Are the Rates for Ghostwriting High Enough?
Finding the right ghostwriter for your book is essential, and conducting a ghostwriter interview is a crucial step in the process. It’s important to evaluate their rates and be cautious of those that seem “too good to be true” or exceptionally low.
The ghostwriting industry is highly competitive, and some writers may offer their services at surprisingly low prices. However, it’s important to remember that writing a high-quality book requires expertise and time. Beware of cheap ghostwriters who may lack confidence in their abilities or be desperate for any project. A book of substantial length, such as a 200-page book with 20,000 to 30,000 words, typically comes with a minimum cost of $10,000 to $20,000. If the pricing seems too steep, it may be worth reassessing your need for a book.
Ghostwriting rates vary per word, ranging from 25 cents to $2.00 or more. While some ghostwriters may offer lower rates, it’s important to consider the value you will receive in return. Writing a book involves project management, research, interviews, and writing skills, making it a complex undertaking that goes beyond simply putting words on paper.
To illustrate, imagine remodeling your home and receiving three bids: $20,000, $21,000, and $17,000. Then, you stumble upon a contractor willing to do the job for $2,000. Despite the attractive price, their lack of a contractor’s license and potential issues raise concerns. Similarly, opting for a cheap ghostwriter can lead to dissatisfaction, delays, and a lower-quality final product.
Investing in a professional ghostwriter who charges a fair rate ensures that you receive the highest-quality work. Remember, publishing your book is a significant endeavor, and compromising on the expertise and experience of a ghostwriter can jeopardize its success.
When selecting a ghostwriter, consider professional ghostwriting services or skilled freelance ghostwriters who understand their value and charge accordingly. While price is not the sole determining factor, it can serve as an indicator of a writer’s experience and confidence in their abilities. Choose wisely to ensure a successful collaboration and the best possible outcome for your book.
11. What are the Rules for Ghostwriting?
Ghostwriting is an intriguing profession with no set rules or regulations. Unlike occupations such as medicine or law, there is no union or mandatory training for ghostwriters. Consequently, there is a lack of standardized practices and limited coordination among different ghostwriters. You won’t come across certificates on their walls or official qualifications listed on their websites.
Although there are a few ghostwriting classes and even a Ghostwriting Certification, it’s important to question their true significance. These classes are typically designed by individual writers or teachers based on their personal experiences and knowledge. While they can offer valuable insights, real-world experience often proves to be the most valuable teacher in this field.
When it comes to ghostwriting fees, there are no industry-wide standards. I provided some general guidelines earlier in this article, but don’t be surprised to find some ghostwriters charging hundreds of thousands of dollars for a book project. It’s crucial to find a ghostwriter who aligns with your budget and offers a fair price for their services.
As you navigate the world of ghostwriting, keep in mind that the absence of formal regulations doesn’t mean you should settle for anything less than a qualified and professional ghostwriter. Look for experience, a strong portfolio, and positive client testimonials to gauge their expertise and reliability. Conducting a thorough ghostwriter interview will help you assess their abilities and ensure a successful collaboration on your book. Remember, choosing the right ghostwriter is an essential step towards bringing your story to life and achieving your publishing goals.
12. Is the Ghostwriter a Fluent Speaker of the Language of Your Book?
When it comes to sourcing a ghostwriter online, especially from content mills such as Contently, eLance, and eByline, it’s important to exercise caution. Conducting a ghostwriter interview becomes even more crucial in such cases. While there may be a pool of writers and ghostwriters responding to your project, it’s essential to ensure they are fluent in the language that applies to your book. This is particularly relevant for writers who bid low on your projects, as their language skills may not meet the desired standards.
Now, let me clarify that being a non-native speaker of your language doesn’t automatically imply a lack of competence in producing a well-crafted ghostwritten book. There are talented writers from all over the world, and their skills are not defined by their place of origin. However, it’s worth noting that skilled writers usually come at a higher cost, regardless of their location. They are confident in their experience, expertise, and the value they bring to your project.
When seeking a ghostwriter, it’s generally advisable to find someone who is fluent, or even native, in the language in which your book will be written. This ensures a deeper understanding of the subtleties, nuances, and cultural context specific to your chosen language.
Additionally, working with a ghostwriter who doesn’t speak your language proficiently can present significant challenges. I recall one of my early ghostwriting projects, where I was tasked with writing a memoir for an Afghan politician. Due to his limited English proficiency and the stark cultural differences, the interviews were complex, and the translation process was demanding. While I managed to deliver quality work, it required a considerable amount of effort beyond what is typical for a “normal” ghostwriting project.
Another aspect to consider is the difference in time zones when collaborating with writers from other countries. It’s essential to ascertain their location and the available hours in your time zone to facilitate smooth communication and efficient workflow.
By conducting a thorough ghostwriter interview and taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your project’s requirements and ensures a fruitful collaboration with a skilled writer who can bring your book to life.
13. Does the Ghostwriter Have Good Interviewing Skills?
Here’s a bonus tip: The key to successful ghostwriting lies in conducting an effective ghostwriter interview. The goal of the interview is to extract the valuable information residing in your mind and translate it into world-class writing. A thorough and insightful ghostwriter interview ensures that you receive the high-quality work you need.
Beware of individuals who merely pose as ghostwriters but lack the necessary skills. Some self-proclaimed ghostwriters may have a quick phone call with you, jot down your ideas, and deliver a draft that falls short of the quality you expect. To avoid disappointment, it’s crucial to choose a ghostwriter who excels at conducting interviews.
A skilled ghostwriter will go beyond a single conversation and conduct multiple interviews with you. They will ask pointed questions, challenge your ideas to ensure clarity, and push for more elaboration. Through these in-depth interviews, you may even experience eye-opening revelations and discover new perspectives on your subject matter.
The interview skills of a ghostwriter are critical in extracting high-quality, accurate information from your mind and translating it onto the page. When hiring a ghostwriter, prioritize someone who demonstrates excellent interviewing abilities.
Remember, the ghostwriter interview serves as the foundation for the entire writing process. It is through thoughtful and insightful interviews that a skilled ghostwriter can truly understand your vision, extract the essence of your ideas, and craft a remarkable book that accurately represents your voice and expertise.
Ghostwriting is a thankless career
When hiring a ghostwriter, it’s important to acknowledge that they offer their talents and expertise for ghostwriting. They are compensated upfront for their work, but they do not receive credit or recognition for the book they have written, unless given explicit permission by the client. This is a crucial aspect to consider during the ghostwriter interview process.
Ghostwriters understand the nature of their work, which often requires a level of secrecy. As a result, they cannot use the work in their portfolio, promotions, or as references without your consent. This confidentiality is a standard practice in the ghostwriting industry.
For creative individuals, not being able to publicly claim the work they have poured their heart and soul into can be a challenge. It’s like an artist unable to sign their masterpiece or share it with others. However, ghostwriters accept this trade-off in exchange for fair compensation for their efforts.
It’s worth noting that the book they write may never be published – which means the author (the client) will not receive any money for their expenditure. Even if the book does make it to print, its success in terms of book sales may vary. It’s essential to recognize that the primary purpose of a ghostwritten nonfiction book is often to leverage it for press recognition, speaking engagements, and establishing expertise rather than relying solely on book sales.
The success of a book depends not only on the quality of the writing but also on how well it is promoted and marketed. Some best-selling books are not necessarily literary masterpieces but have been successfully marketed to a specific audience. Therefore, the focus should be on crafting a high-quality book that aligns with your vision and goals.
During the ghostwriter interview process, it’s crucial to have open and honest discussions about expectations, rights, and compensation. Both parties should ensure they are on the same page regarding confidentiality, payment terms, and project scope. By understanding the dynamics of ghostwriting and valuing the expertise of these professionals, you can establish a mutually beneficial relationship that results in a high-quality book representing you as the author.
How do you find a good ghostwriter?
All right, when it comes to finding a top-notch ghostwriter for your project, the key lies in conducting a thorough ghostwriter interview. Is there such a thing as a good ghostwriter? Can you actually find one or is it an impossible task? Let’s explore the process and see how you can discover a skilled ghostwriter who meets your needs.
There are numerous talented ghostwriters out there who possess the expertise to create an exceptional book that you’ll proudly claim as your own.
But how can you be sure?
First and foremost, treat them as professionals and be willing to invest in their services. Avoid the temptation of seeking a cheap ghostwriter. Opting for the lowest cost option often leads to subpar quality and incomplete projects. For a book of around 20,000 to 30,000 words, expect to allocate a budget ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 for a well-crafted ghostwritten masterpiece.
Secondly, request samples of their work. Assess their portfolio to gauge their writing prowess and ensure their style aligns with your vision. Look for published works or even self-published books that showcase their capabilities.
During the ghostwriter interview, ask targeted questions to evaluate their skills and approach. A good ghostwriter will engage in multiple conversations with you, delving deep into the subject matter. They will pose thought-provoking queries, coax you to refine your ideas, and prompt revelations. These interview skills are crucial in extracting high-quality, accurate information from your mind and translating it onto the page.
Insist on a comprehensive and fair contract (also referred to as a Statement of Work). The contract should outline payment terms, project details, termination clauses, indemnity clauses, and an overall project timeline.
Most ghostwriters will require a nonrefundable deposit upfront before commencing work, typically around 25% of the total project cost. Set up payment milestones tied to specific deliverables, ensuring that the project progresses smoothly. Include a termination option for both parties, offering an exit strategy if circumstances warrant it.
A competent ghostwriter should be open to an initial consultation at no cost, providing an opportunity to discuss your book project in detail. Take advantage of this meeting to share your goals, limitations, and any concerns you may have. Pose a variety of questions and pay attention to their responses. The ideal ghostwriter will exude confidence without crossing into arrogance or rudeness.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can find a skilled ghostwriter who will collaborate with you to create an exceptional book, ensuring your vision comes to life in the most captivating way possible.
Getting the Most from Your Ghostwriter Interview
Writing a book is an incredibly fulfilling endeavor, and the joy of seeing your work published and holding a physical copy in your hands is beyond words. It’s a bucket list item that often remains unchecked for many individuals.
Don’t let your dreams of a book go unrealized. Even if you lack the time or writing skills, you can still bring your story to life by engaging in a thorough ghostwriter interview process to find a competent ghostwriter.
Just like with any professional service, it’s crucial to thoroughly evaluate your ghostwriter before finalizing the agreement. Take advantage of the complimentary ghostwriter consultation to gather essential information. Have they been published before? Do they genuinely care about your project? Are they easy to collaborate with? Can they demonstrate competent writing skills?
Apart from the obvious requirements of writing and interviewing expertise, the key to a successful collaboration lies in the relationship between you and your ghostwriter. Ensure that you both communicate effectively, work harmoniously, and address any concerns or issues that may arise during the process.
Lastly, remember to embrace the journey and enjoy the experience. Writing a book is an accomplishment that eludes many individuals. By taking this remarkable step and conducting a thorough ghostwriter interview, you’re venturing into a realm that few dare to explore. Treasure each milestone and relish the sense of achievement when you finally hold your completed book in your hands.
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thanks for the great info!
Spilled out from content. Thanks for sharing this honest confession of a ghostwriter.
You know, I should write this same article about choosing a marketing consultant as many of the same issues seem to be pertinent. It is hard to find someone who has the right experience, qualifications and who is on the level.