How Much Research Does a Ghostwriter Do for You?

The amount of research a ghostwriter will do depends on two big factors: (1) your contract and (2) your subject matter. When you begin to work on your project, you and your ghostwriter will discuss how much research needs to go into the book. For example, a memoir would require a minimal amount of research, whereas a history or medical book would require a great deal. Business-related books often fall somewhere in the middle. If you hire an experienced ghostwriter, he or she will be able to give you an estimate of how much research needs to be done and how long that will take.

A book that requires heavy research can often take longer, since the writer will need to do a lot of preparation before beginning to write the book. While the ghostwriter does the research, you can still be an active participant. During the research and interview phase, your ghostwriter should give you regular status reports on the material he or she is finding. This way, you can help guide the research without having to spend hours on the Internet or in the library. You can also do research of your own or work on drafting other parts of the manuscript.

If you have hired a ghostwriter because you have a busy schedule, you should communicate to the ghostwriter that he or she will be doing the majority of the research. It is unlikely that a ghostwriter will ever do all of the research—you, the author, should be involved as well. This can be as simple as pointing the writer in the right direction and coming up with a few resources of your own. When it comes to ghostwriting, communication is key, so the more you talk with your writer, the more likely you are going to be satisfied with the end product.

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The Name Game

I have heard people ask many questions when it comes to ghostwriting. Two I hear the most are “What is the difference between a coauthor, cowriter, and ghostwriter?” and “Why on earth would you give your ghostwriter credit?” Read on for my answers.

Coauthor: A coauthor is just that, a collaborating author. Two or more authors work together on the concept and creation of the book. Both will get credit on the cover, and both have equal standing when it comes to rights and authorship of the book.

Cowriter: This term is a bit more fluid. A cowriter can have the status of a coauthor or can simply be a colleague working on the project. Generally speaking, a cowriter is of a slightly lower status than the primary author. Nonetheless, a cowriter is typically credited on the cover and inside the book. For example, the cover will read “John Doe with Jane Doe,” Jane Doe being the cowriter.

Ghostwriter: A ghostwriter is a professional writer who writes and shapes a book on the basis of stipulations of a client. The two biggest differences between a ghostwriter and a coauthor/cowriter are that (1) the ghostwriter works anonymously and (2) the ghostwriter always works for a fee. Traditionally, ghostwriters are not noted on the cover but are sometimes obscurely mentioned in the acknowledgments page (e.g., “This book would not have been possible without the efforts of Jane Doe”).

Here is a great example of attribution at work:

 

Why Give the Ghostwriter Credit? For years, ghostwriters did not, or could not, lay claim to their writing.   This custom is changing, however, as more and more authors are openly acknowledging their ghostwriters.   In many cases, readers realize that the author did not write the book by himself or herself, whether that is because he or she is a busy politician or a reality TV star who hasn’t really mastered the written word.   It is common knowledge that ghostwriters are out there doing the work, and some authors are now giving credit where credit is due.   Of course, mentioning the ghostwriter is not a requirement, but admitting to seeking out a professional writer is also no longer taboo.   Many people will treat the ghostwriter much in the same way as a cowriter, as in “by John Doe with Jane Doe.”

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How to Find a Qualified Ghostwriter

If you’re like most aspiring authors, the search for a good ghostwriter can be overwhelming. There are hundreds of websites and companies promising you success, but you aren’t sure where to start. Plus, authors don’t usually put the name of their ghostwriter on the cover of their book. Here are a few quick and easy tips to help you find the ghostwriter who is right for you.

DIY: Shop around Online

When you type “ghostwriter” into your Google search bar, you get several million hits. Not so helpful. Start by adding key terms in your search, such as “memoir” or “business.” The more specific you can be, the more likely you will be to find a ghostwriter who suits your needs.

Ask Your Colleagues

If you know of colleagues or friends who have used a ghostwriter, ask them whom they worked with and whether they would recommend that person. They can also point you toward a few ghostwriting companies or groups that may have a good match for you.

Go to the Pros: Consult with Ghostwriting Services Groups

There are several publishing consulting companies that can help connect you with the right ghostwriter. They have networks of hundreds of different writers and can match you with a writer, help you set up a contract, and even work with you to get the book published. This method can be faster and easier than conducting your own search, though it may cost a bit more.

Can They Pass the Test?

Once you have narrowed down your options, you will want to interview a handful of ghostwriters to see who is best for you. Meet with them in person if possible, or talk on the phone. Ask for writing samples, a list of their previous work, and a copy of their résumé. Remember that you want to find a ghostwriter who has experience in your field, whom you feel comfortable working with, and whose writing you are drawn to. Be picky! After all, this is your book, and you want it to be in the right hands.

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