1. Contract
A contract should be in place and signed by both parties before the writing project commences. Because a ghostwriter never claims authorship for their submitted written work unless they are working as a co-author, they should be willing to sign and abide by the terms of a service agreement, including relinquishment of rights. The service agreement should cover all aspects of the writing assignment.
With a signed agreement in place, all parties are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities and in the event of a breach of the agreement, legal action can be taken.
2. Expertise and Experience
You should carefully examine the writer’s portfolio and thoroughly check their references. Their portfolio should contain examples of various types of writing styles such as articles, novels, books, etc.
Do the samples read well? Are the samples interesting? If you like what you see, then you will probably like what the ghostwriter will create for you.
3. Style and Voice
Analyze their writing style and voice. You should be comfortable with their style, and it should align well with yours.
If the samples the writer has provided do not emulate the style you are looking for, ask them for written samples demonstrating the style you desire.
Sometimes, matching style isn’t just about tone—it’s also about perspective, nuance, and being able to “hear” your story in your own head when you read the draft. That’s actually harder than it sounds. If it matters to you that your voice comes through, don’t be afraid to have a few honest conversations about what you want before things get rolling. You’re not being picky; it just makes the collaboration work better, especially on longer projects.
Of course, it helps if the ghostwriter has a chameleon-like quality. Some writers are brilliant but can only write one way, and that rarely works for ghostwriting. Ideally, ask how they approach getting into someone else’s headspace and whether they welcome feedback or even rewrites to nail the details. It’s totally normal for this to be a learning curve for both sides, and sometimes things just click after a draft or two.
4. Type of Material
The ghostwriter should be proficient in the creation of the type of material you need. For example, if your writing assignment requires an adept fiction writer, their writing samples and portfolio should demonstrate compelling examples of fiction.
If the written work is to be industry specific, the ghostwriter should be knowledgeable of the given industry, including its acronyms.
5. Deadlines and Requirements
Many ghostwriters work on more than one project at a time with more than one client. Make sure the writer understands your requirements and deadlines to ensure their work schedule will allow them to fully meet your needs and desires.
Discuss and agree upon all requirements prior to commencement of the writing process. For example, when writing a book, do you want them to email you each chapter upon its completion? What are your deadline requirements for edits and re-writes?
6. Reasonably Priced
The fee they request for the project should fall in line with what you’re willing to pay for its completion.
7. Unique Content
Is the writer you’re considering willing to create unique content and guarantee its exclusivity? A dependable and trustworthy ghostwriter will never create plagiarized material.
8. Personality / Working Relationship
Choose a ghostwriter that is affable as well as professional. This becomes especially critical for lengthy projects or those requiring a lot of interaction. If possible, meet with them face-to-face before starting your writing project. You will be spending a lot of time with the writer; therefore, you should expect to develop a certain rapport with them. The writing process will be much easier with someone you feel comfortable with.
Face-to-face time is even more critical when they are crafting your story—so they can get a sense of who you really are.
When checking their references, be sure ask past clients about their working relationship with the ghostwriter. Ask if there were any problems that needed to be addressed and how these problems were resolved.
9. Publishing Requirements
Do you need a ghostwriter who can assist you in the publishing process? Do you need someone who has connections in the publishing industry? Will they be responsible for helping you to self-publish or e-publish your material or book? Knowing the answers to these questions will enable you to find a ghostwriter who can meet your publishing requirements as well as your writing needs.
Hiring a ghostwriter is an important decision. By following these tips and considerations, you will find a competent ghostwriter for the length and depth of your writing project—one that can create writing that is vibrant and alive.
