It's just an ebook! Should I hire a ghostwriter?

If you’re looking at publishing a digital-first or digital-only book, do you still need a ghostwriter? Well, ask yourself this: if you were publishing a print book, would you want to hire a professional writer?

These days, we shouldn’t differentiate between print and electronic as “better” or “worse.” Some statistics say as many as one in four Americans owns and uses an e-reader, so don’t think that your e-book doesn’t have to be just as good as a print edition, because it does have to be as good—if not better. Thanks to the ease of self-publishing, the e-market is more heavily saturated than print, and you and your ghostwriter will need to work even harder to make a splash. Luckily, many writers are familiar with publishing digitally, and all you two will need to do is work together to come up with a plan to make your book work.

Before you even hire a ghostwriter, decide what kind of e-book you will want to create and thus what e-reader platforms you’ll reach. Using things such as color or interactivity can limit the types of devices on which your e-book will run. You’ll also want to talk to potential ghostwriters about their experience with e-books to see how much they can help you in the process.

If you are creating a standard, or “vanilla,” e-book (no bells and whistles such as video or audio), then there are few if any differences in the ghostwriting process. No matter how you skin it, you’ll need a solidly researched, well-written manuscript. And for a straight-text e-book, you don’t need much else.

Should you decide to add the aforementioned bells and whistles, you and your ghostwriter will need to come up with a plan. How will you denote where a specific image, video, or sound clip will go? Will your writer help you in the conversion process? You will also need to get the rights and proper permissions for any extra materials you use, and you will probably want to have some kind of QA process to make sure the hyperlinks land on the proper webpages and your videos don’t cut out in the middle. Of course, many of those items can be handled by professional e-book conversion companies, so you may need to involve multiple resources in the creation of your book.

To return to our original question, should you hire a ghostwriter for an e-book project? My answer is yes. If you’re thinking about working with a ghostwriter, odds are you need or want one, and the format of your book shouldn’t influence your decision.

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Interviewing Tips for the Ghostwriter

On this blog, we’ve talked about what a writer should look for when hiring a ghostwriter. But what should you—the ghostwriter—look for when you’re being interviewed? We’ve made a list of some of the hot-button items that will help you get the most out of your projects.

1. Is the project interesting? Obvious as it seems, this question is sometimes overlooked by writers, especially those new to the field. Is the subject matter something you feel passionate about, are knowledgeable in, or want to share with the world? Is the material or spin fresh and innovative? If you are bored by the pitch, you’ll probably be bored by the project. And while we can’t always have the books of our dreams, it is important to be interested and invested in any project you take on.

2. What’s the time table like? Scheduling a ghostwriting project goes both ways. If your potential client wants to have a book written in 90 days and will be out of the country and out of touch for 80 of those days, you may want to let this project pass. Some clients will have an urgent deadline or unreasonable expectations and you won’t be able to talk them into a more practical schedule. On the other hand, many clients are flexible and willing to meet you halfway. Look for those that fall into the latter category, and be sure your schedule and theirs will be met.

3. How much work needs to be done? Are you going to be starting from scratch, an outline, or a set of case studies, or will you be working off prepared materials? You’ll need to factor in the amount of work in order to decide how much time you’ll need to complete the project. See whether your client expects to have materials ready for you or whether he or she will be giving you pieces along the way. In some cases, you may be expected to do everything on your own.

4. How will your client contribute? Some clients are very hands-off during the ghostwriting process while others want to be there every step of the way. Try to get an idea of how much this particular client will want to do, and also gauge how much you will need from him or her. The two of you should be able to find a happy medium.

5. Are you two a good match? Managing your client is just as important as managing your writing. The project will go smoothly if you two have compatible working styles (or can compensate for your differences), each go in with similar expectations, and genuinely respect each other. There’s no sense in working for a belligerent client or someone who is perfectly nice but won’t help you get the job done.

6. How will the client handle the delicate points of your collaboration? This last question is especially relevant if you are working as a freelancer with a total stranger. How do you know the client will pay and pay on time? Will you get any kind of attribution for your work? Can you use the client as a reference? The best way to ensure that you get yeses to all of those questions is to have a plan in mind before you even talk to the client. Tell him or her about your standard operating procedure—perhaps you get paid an advance and then collect the rest at the end of the project or you want to use this project as a résumé builder. Be upfront and honest with your writer in the early stages to be sure you get what you need.

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Ghostwriting and the Traveling Executive

Creating a book can be tricky at the best of times, but what if your job required lots of time and travel? How will you be able to fit in reviewing chapters, coordinating with your ghostwriter, and supplying materials? As always, the secret to success is organization. This means organization of your projects, your priorities, and your personal time.

When you first hire your ghostwriter, let him or her know that you travel frequently and will sometimes be in and out of communication. Provide your known travel plans for the foreseeable future and note when you will be completely off the grid. This will give your ghostwriter a good idea of when and how you can be reached.

Next, try to create a schedule with your writer based on your travels. If you know you'll have some downtime or a long plane ride in a few weeks, that would be a good time for your writer to send you the first couple of chapters. And once your writer gets started on the project, you two can nail down the schedule on the basis of your availability and the ghostwriter's need for feedback. You should be prepared to set aside a good chunk of time at the beginning and end of the ghostwriting process, but be sure to stay involved during the middle portion to ensure a great final product.

Try to set aside some time each week to check in with your writer via phone or e-mail. Give your writer advance notice, saying, "On Thursday afternoon, I will be devoting several hours to the book. You can expect a call/e-mail from me, and I will complete X task." Tasks can be anything from catching up on ghostwriter queries to sending edits. Even if you've hired an autonomous ghostwriter who can handle the bulk of the project without your input, you'll still want to keep in touch.

For many execs, publishing a book is a very time-sensitive matter. You may be creating a corporate anniversary project, an in-demand memoir, or a groundbreaking business book. Your ghostwriter will understand these time constraints. However, you should also be able to take some time out of your schedule for this book. Your involvement, no matter the subject of the book, is key to creating a finished product that you and your readers will enjoy.

Each project is different, so my best advice is simply to be organized and stay in touch with your writer. You two will create a schedule and a system that works well for both of you. Check out some of the other entries on this site for tips on how to communicate with ghostwriters, prepare your materials, and make a realistic timetable for your project.

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Reviewing Ghostwriter Samples: What to Look For

You’ve found a few promising ghostwriters, and now you’re up against the task of weeding through their writing samples. How do you know what to look for, especially if they haven’t written a book quite like yours? Below are a few obvious and not-so-obvious elements to keep an eye out for when reviewing ghostwriter samples.

Correct Spelling and Grammar

This one is a no-brainer. But also look for certain trends (e.g., serial commas) that you like, as well as competency with your chosen style, whether that’s CMS, AP, or something different.

Word Choice and Phrasing

Keeping in mind that the ghostwriter was likely trying to reproduce the style of the author, look for certain turns of phrase, sentence structures, and other elements that you find appealing. Although most ghostwriters will do their best to mimic the voice of the author, their own personal voices will come through in the writing as well.

Use of Jargon, Stats, and Other Info

Does the writer make even the most technical information clear and interesting for readers of various levels? If so, that’s a good sign. No matter the subject of your book, it should appeal to the broadest possible audience—after all, the whole point of writing a book is that someone else will read it! Good ghostwriters can tackle complex subjects and create text that accurately and clearly represents data and pertinent information.

Familiarity with the Topic

This is especially important if you get a chance to review a sample from a book in your field. You’ll want evidence that the writer is comfortable with the topic and uses the necessary terms properly. Even brief samples can give you an idea of how much a writer knows (or has learned) about a particular subject.

Tone and Talent

Does the sample make you want to read more, despite less than thrilling subject matter? Is the writing presented in a straightforward and interesting manner? I often encourage authors to go with a writer who writes well rather than one who is simply well educated. Part of the ghostwriting process is the mutual exchange of information, and it is very rare that a ghostwriter is an expert or professional in the same field as the author. Ghostwriters are smart people, and even if you choose a writer with little experience in, say, business books, that doesn’t mean he or she won’t turn out a beautifully written book. Go with your gut—if you think a writer is talented and you are willing to give direction, you two can be a good match.

Finally, remember that ghostwriters are only as good as their authors. Even the greatest writer can do only so much with an author who is not fully committed to the project or who supplies only minimal material and direction, and sometimes this shows in the finished product. Feel free to ask writers for details on their projects—in some cases that info will be confidential, but they can always tell you what helps them work best. Use that new knowledge to be the best author you can be and to choose the ghostwriter who is best suited to you.

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Niche Writers Versus Generalist Writers: Which Is Best for My Project?

This is a question you will want to answer early in your search for a ghostwriter. I’ve put together a brief quiz (below) to help you determine whether a niche writer or a generalist writer will be best for you and your book.

1.     What is the topic of your book?

a.     It is a very focused topic in an academic field.

b.     It is a business book.

c.     It is a memoir/biography.

2.      What kind of materials will you be incorporating into your book?

a.     heavy research and statistics and perhaps material from scholarly articles

b.     some research and statistics but also practical advice and information

c.     personal documents, memories, and experiences

3.     Who is your intended audience?

a.     other professionals in my field

b.     working professionals looking to better an aspect of their lives, careers, or businesses

c.     anyone who wants to hear the story, though I do have a certain group of readers in mind

4.     Will the average reader (with a college education) understand the bulk of your book?

a.     It seems unlikely; much of the book is targeted toward a select group in my field.

b.     Yes, though I intend for my book to be educational.

c.     Yes, I think many people will enjoy learning from and about my life (or the life of the person I am writing about).

5.     What is the level of complexity of your book in terms of jargon and concepts?

a.     High: knowledge of specific language, terms, and theories is necessary to understand my work.

b.     Medium: my book builds upon previous works and theories, but I will take great care to explain unfamiliar terms or concepts.

c.     Low: I want my text to be easily readable, and the beauty of the prose is important to me.

Mostly As: It sounds like you are working on a complex, scholarly book, and I’d suggest working with a niche writer. You’ll want a writer who is familiar with your topic or field so that you two can do your subject justice. Be sure to provide as much information in as straightforward a manner as you can, especially when you’re getting started on the project. This will help your ghostwriter learn and allow you two to put your information into a strong text.

Mostly Bs: You could work with either a niche writer or a generalist writer. Your book seems flexible in terms of complexity, and even a writer outside of your field would be able to put together a well-written book that would appeal to readers. Of course, a niche writer may be able to improve further with his or her background knowledge on the topic. The more challenging or specific your topic, the more strongly you should consider finding a niche writer.

Mostly Cs: A generalist writer would be a great fit. Ghostwriters, by profession, have to have strong writing skills and the ability to turn out strong prose and compelling narratives. If you want to find a niche writer, you may do so—there are some writers who specialize in memoirs, biographies, and the like. As long as you find someone whose writing you like and whose working style meshes with yours, you should be good to go.


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Before You Hire a Ghostwriter, Ask Yourself...Am I an Ideal Client?

We’ve spent a lot of time talking about how you can find the perfect ghostwriter, but the interview process goes both ways. When you’re interviewing your potential ghostwriters, they are also interviewing you. And many ghostwriters are in high demand and have the ability to pick and choose their projects. So what do ghostwriters look for in an ideal client?

A clear vision. Your vision for your book doesn’t have to be set in stone (in fact, it could be problematic if it is), but you should have a good idea of what you want to see in the final product. Depending on your genre, map out your thoughts in terms of tone, style, and even layout (e.g., bulleted lists, tables, sections, etc.). When you go in for the interview with your ghostwriter, you might even want to put together a sample chapter (it doesn’t have to be perfect) that you can show your writer to give him or her an idea of how the book will flow.

Organization. Are most or all of your materials in one place and in some kind of order? If so, you’re golden. Many ghostwriters plan to do extra research when working on a project, but it certainly helps to have as much (organized) information available as possible.

A realistic schedule. In past blogs, we’ve talked about how long it takes to ghostwrite a book and do it right. Some websites advertise with slogans such as “We’ll write your book in 30 days!” but very few good ghostwriters can provide that kind of turnaround time. Give your writer as much time as possible—ideally four or more months—so he or she can create the best possible product.

Availability. You may be a busy executive, a celebrity, or even a world traveler. But during the book-writing process, your ghostwriter will want to have access to you. If your calendar is completely hectic for the next six months, maybe now is not the right time to do your book. Ghostwriters can work very autonomously, but you will want to be available and involved to make sure you are happy with your book.

Good feedback. Good feedback is not always positive feedback, but it should always be constructive. Ghostwriters look for clients who communicate quickly, concisely, and respectfully. Providing good feedback on everything from minor questions to the final manuscript will make the working relationship between you and your writer that much more enjoyable and effective.

Compatibility. Just as you want a writer who suits you, so, too, will a ghostwriter look for a client with whom he or she is compatible. You two should match up in terms of working style, communication, and personality. If you have certain weaknesses that may hamper the progress of the book, look for a writer who balances you out. You and your ghostwriter are a team, and you should create the best team that you can.

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Day-to-Day Communication Tips for Working with a Ghostwriter

Keeping the lines of communication open with your ghostwriter is essential to creating the book of your dreams. Many authors work with writers who live in different cities or states, but even if your writer works just down the street, you’ll want to follow some best practices for keeping in touch. Below are a handful of ways you and your writer can keep each other up to date on the progress of your book.

E-mail: This is the fastest and easiest way for you and your writer to stay in touch. Unless you have an insanely busy schedule or an overflowing inbox, try to e-mail back and forth two or three times a week. E-mail is where you will ask simple questions and set up meetings and interviews. E-mail is also handy because you can keep a record of the entire process. This is especially important for things such as compensation discussions, important information regarding sources and materials, and any changes you want to make to the manuscript.

Status Reports: At the end of each week, your ghostwriter should send you a status report. This report can include accomplishments of the week (pages written, materials completed, etc.), goals for the coming week, and any unresolved issues that will need further attention. The report will allow you to monitor your writer’s progress and give you a chance to give feedback and guidance.

Phone Calls and In-Person Meetings: Your phone calls and in-person meetings should be used for interviews, macro-level information/material exchanges (think audiotapes), and other big-picture discussions. These contexts allow you to have an extended conversation, bounce ideas off each other, and plan the finished document. Don’t call your writer to provide him or her with minute changes to wording or grammar—a lot can get lost in translation. Direct text changes (and anything else specific that you want the writer to reference) should be sent via e-mail and backed up so you have a written record.

Texts, Instant Messages, and Skype/FaceTime Calls: Some authors and ghostwriters are moving into working in the ever-expanding fields of new media to work on projects. The three options listed above are slightly more informal methods to communicate with your writer, but if you two both like to Skype, then go for it! Just remember to use the other channels above for the conversations you need to track.

I’ve also posted other blogs on this site that discuss working with a ghostwriter long distance, as well as finding ways to work interviews and manuscript reviews into your busy schedule. Be sure to scroll through for more information!

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Five Questions to Ask a Potential Ghostwriter

During your initial interview with a potential ghostwriter, both of you will have a lot of questions. While many of those questions will pertain to your specific project, the five questions below should be asked no matter what your book is about.

Question 1: What is your availability?
Some ghostwriters work on more than one project at once, and before you even start discussing your project, you’ll want to know whether the ghostwriter can work on your timetable. Before meeting with a potential writer, draw up a rough schedule and assign dates to important pieces of the ghostwriting process such as interviewing, reviewing materials, drafting, and revising. Most writers need at least three or four months from signing on to a project to having a strong manuscript ready. In some cases, the writing process can take up to a year. Decide when you want to have the manuscript ready, and make sure that time frame works for your material, your personal schedule, and your potential ghostwriter.

Question 2: What kind of experience do you have in my field?
The more experience and education a writer has in your field, the easier it will be for the two of you to craft a book. You won’t need to constantly explain the theories, jargon, or nuances of your topic, and the writer will be able to craft your material into a well-written book that will appeal to your intended audience. If you want to create an innovative new business book, try to find a ghostwriter who has written in the business genre. I should also note that a lack of expertise can be bolstered by interest and enthusiasm. If a writer is willing to go the extra mile to learn everything about your field, direct experience may not be 100 percent necessary.

Question 3: What is your writing approach?
This is a broad question, but you will want a specific answer. It is important to learn whether your writer is very independent or whether he or she will want a great deal of input from you. Does the writer like to check in daily, weekly, or monthly? Does the writer create the entire manuscript in one go or work chapter by chapter? Does the writer like to create many drafts and many revisions? You should pair yourself with a writer whose working style meshes with yours.

Question 4: Why do you think you are a good match for this project?
While the vast majority of ghostwriters are not mercenary wordsmiths, there are a few out there who are. Just because someone can create a pretty turn of phrase does not mean you should hire him or her for your book. Ask a potential ghostwriter why he or she is interested in working with you. You should expect an answer that combines interest in your topic, a love of writing, and enthusiasm for bringing the end product to the audience. If your writer is invested in the process, he or she will be more likely to believe in your book and in you, and the book will be better for it. Even though you will compensate a writer for his or her services, your project can still be a labor of love.

Question 5: How much will it cost?
Yes, this is probably one of the most important questions you can ask. Most ghostwriters work on a project-by-project basis and do not have flat fees for their services. Each book is different, and a good ghostwriter knows that many variables can add or detract time and effort from the project. Go into the interview with a budget in mind, and see what you can do with that money. A more expensive ghostwriter is not always a better ghostwriter, but you will want to be sure to budget for quality work.

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The Value of Constructive Criticism

I’ve often heard clients say that they are afraid of or nervous about giving a ghostwriter criticism and changes. This can happen for a number of reasons: the author doesn’t want to hurt the ghostwriter’s feelings, isn’t comfortable requesting that changes be made, or doesn’t know how to explain the changes he or she would like to see. But withholding your option can have serious consequences. Your writer could continue further and further down a particular writing path that isn’t right for your project. You writer could miss important facts or information. Most importantly, you could end up not being happy with your own book.

Enter constructive criticism. Think of yourself as the editor while your ghostwriter drafts your book. All editors tell their authors that certain parts of a book need to be altered or improved. Your feedback is essential to the success of your project, and—trust me—your ghostwriter can handle making changes. Ghostwriters are professionals; they won’t scream or cry or tear out their hair if you tell them they’ve done something wrong. In fact, they expect to make revisions during the drafting process. They will take your suggestions and alter the writing until it meets your specifications. That, my friend, is a very real part of their job.

Of course, you must treat your ghostwriter with professionalism and respect. If you want to make a change, let your ghostwriter know by bringing the passage or chapter to his or her attention and explaining why it doesn’t work for you. Give specific examples of what you don’t like and equally specific suggestions for changes or new approaches. Simply saying “I don’t like this” won’t help anybody. You are the expert in your field or on your topic, and a ghostwriter is an expert writer, but only by working together can you create a book that contains the presentation and the information you want.

A final note about feedback: don’t focus solely on the negative bits. By all means mark any and all changes you would like to make, but also take note of the things your writer did well or places where he or she improved upon your original ideas. Try to figure out what you like about a particularly good section of the book, and see how you can apply it to a more problematic passage. This method will benefit everyone involved: you’ll feel like less of a downer, your writer will have a better idea of what you like, and your book will reflect all the hard work you two put into it.

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Ghostwriters and the Importance of Quick Decisions

Let's see whether this story sounds familiar to you. You have a book idea in mind, and you decide you'd like to work with a ghostwriter. You do your homework, come up with a handful of potential writers, and interview them. Then you take some time to mull things over. You get busy with work and family and a million other things. When you reach out to one of those ghostwriters a few weeks (or maybe months) later, the writer is busy and can't take on your project. Then you're stalled. Do you wait for the ghostwriter to be available again? Do you work with someone else, even if you're not sure he or she is right for your project? Do you start from scratch? Or give up entirely?

Don't despair, but do know that in the world of ghostwriting, making fast, informed decisions is necessary for success. Most ghostwriters work as independent contractors and are happy to take on an interesting project that comes their way at the right time. But with any freelancer, timing is everything. Ghostwriters aren’t expected to sit around and wait for you to hire them, and good ghostwriters get bundles of projects each month. They could sign with anyone while you are making your decision, and you may miss the window of opportunity for working with your favorite writer.

The best way to ensure that you get the ghostwriter and schedule of your dreams is to give yourself the right amount of time. Even if you won't be writing your book, creating a book takes a lot of time and effort. If you just got a big promotion, had a baby, or are booked to travel around the world, hold off on your project. You should wait until you are in a settled state and have a reasonable amount of free time before you start the ghostwriting process.

Once you're ready to start on your book, set aside time to research different ghostwriters (you can look through this blog series for tips for finding the right one). Narrow your options, and then schedule interviews with your potential writers. Think of this interview process much as you would one for a job: you should choose the most qualified, interested person in a timely manner. If you wait more than two weeks to get back to your writer, you may find that he or she is now engaged in another project.

One way to make your decision simpler is to create a checklist for your interview. Write down all of the characteristics you are looking for in your writer, e.g., available, experienced in your field, comes highly recommended, shows interest in your project, is friendly, is deadline oriented, etc. After your interview, go through and check off everything you liked about that writer and add any other thoughts or impressions that you had about him or her. When your interview process is over, go back through your notes to find the writer who is best suited to you.

After you've made your decision, get in touch with your writer. As soon as you can, you two should create a schedule and get going on the project. You'll be far more likely to get the right writer, a good schedule, and an excellent product if you remind yourself to act quickly and decisively throughout the book-making venture.

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Working with a Ghostwriter on a Corporate Anniversary Project

A corporate anniversary project will hardly ever appeal to a mass market audience. But when it comes to the company writing the anniversary story, it couldn’t be more important. The owners, employees, shareholders, and clients all have a big stake in creating a continuing legacy of excellence. 

An anniversary book commemorates years and years of history, hard work, and success. And it doesn’t have to be dull recitation of what happened in what year. For best results
(unless you happen to work in the publishing or journalism industries), I recommend hiring a ghostwriter.

The ghostwriter will work with you to learn the history and the atmosphere the company. You’ll discuss the past, present, and future; where the company has been and where it’s going; and what you want the book to cover. For many ghostwriters, a corporate anniversary project is much like writing a nonfiction book; it entails a lot of research and a fair number of interviews, leading to a drafting process as they create your manuscript.

However, a lot of ghostwriting projects stem from a single author, and in a corporate anniversary book, that is rarely the case (unless the writer is working from the perspective of the CEO or another executive). It is important to choose the point of view, the tone, and the style of the book you want and discuss this with your ghostwriter early on.

One thing to have in mind is keeping the book “committee” simple. By this, I mean that there is no need to have every member of your organization review the drafts of the book and give feedback—that would drive the ghostwriter crazy! Instead, pick out a small but strong team. You’ll want someone with an eye for good writing, a company-history buff, and one or two other people invested in the project. That way, neither the company nor the ghostwriter will be overwhelmed.

To prepare for a corporate anniversary project (or any ghostwriting project), be sure to have your materials at the ready, as well as a strong vision for your book. The more information you can give the ghostwriter, the more likely you are to end up with the product that you want.

I’d suggest treating a corporate anniversary project much like any other ghostwriting endeavor. The subject of the book does not matter, but the content certainly does, and it is important to put your best foot forward in writing. Look through the previous blogs on this site to get a good idea of ghostwriter “best practices,” and, as always, focus on choosing the writer that is best for your project.

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Who Will Market Your Book Once It’s Written? You!

After you have completed your work with your ghostwriter and your editor, you may be wondering which steps to take next, especially when it comes to marketing your book. If you are working with a traditional publisher, it is likely that the publisher has a PR and marketing plan in place. However, if you are self-publishing or working with a publishing services firm, you will need to get a bit more hands-on with your marketing strategy.

You should begin to think about marketing before your book is published. But if you are running a bit behind, the good news is that you have a high-quality, well-written book to start with. Your great content should be the biggest selling point for your book. Almost anyone can publish these days, but not everyone can publish something interesting, informative, or groundbreaking.

If you are a natural-born seller, marketing your book will come easily to you. You can use social media websites (blogs, Facebook, and the like), explore options with book reviews, visit indie bookstores and set up a book tour, give out free books and discounts—the list goes on. Keep in mind that this will take a LOT of work, but if you target your market and work hard, your time and effort will pay off.

If you are more comfortable with your authorship role and less comfortable making a sale, you may consider turning to a publishing services firm for help. These companies can help you put together press releases, reach important media outlets, get started with websites and social media, and more. They have tons of experience marketing books and will guide you along a marketing path that suits your interests and your needs. In the book business, getting professional help from ghostwriters, editors, and others helps set your title apart from the rest.

Keep in mind that no matter which direction you choose to go with your marketing, you will need to be involved. With so many books in the market, every author has to fight for his or her spot with bookstores, libraries, and, most important, readers. With a book product at your fingertips, you are already a step ahead of the competition. Keep up your hard work to see your book go from some ink and paper to a desirable product for your audience.

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Working with a Ghostwriter on a Technical Subject

Working with a ghostwriter on a technical subject is not as daunting as it sounds. There are plenty of ghostwriters who are versed in advanced business, science, mathematics, and humanities. Below is a step-by-step guide to helping you work with your writer to create the technical book of your dreams.

Step One: Find the right ghostwriter. Of course, this is step one for any project, but a technical subject can be much more challenging than a memoir or an autobiography. Look for a ghostwriter who has experience and an education in your field. Gauge both the ghostwriter’s interest in your subject and his or her familiarity with the concepts you’ll be discussing. Unless your work is so groundbreaking that no one has ever heard of it, you’ll want to find a writer who is comfortable with the basics of your field.

Step Two: Choose an audience. Before you even get started on the book, you’ll need to decide who you want your readers to be. The beauty of ghostwriters is that they are chameleons, able to adapt raw materials to almost any type of book you desire. Decide whether you want your book to reach an audience of your peers, a scientific community, the general public, or another group entirely. It is important to shape the rest of the project around your intended readers.

Step Three: Create an outline. Using your materials and the advice of your writer, put together an outline of how you’d like the ghostwriter to proceed. The complexity of your outline depends on your schedule and your ghostwriter’s familiarity with your subject. Nonetheless, you’ll want to give your writer a guide through your materials to help him or her shape the book.

Step Four: Hand over your materials. As always, the more relevant material you can provide your writer, the better your book will be. Try not to overwhelm your writer with stacks of briefs, essays, and findings, but do give him or her all the materials you think are necessary to complete your book. In this stage, organization is key—using a color-coding system or something along those lines can help your writer sort through your materials and use them correctly and efficiently.

Step Five: Communicate. Be on hand via phone or e-mail to answer your ghostwriter’s questions. Technical subjects can be … well … technical, and no matter how educated your intended audience is, you want your message to be as clear and correct as possible. Help guide your writer toward the book you want and the content that best suits your topic. If the two of you work together closely, you will be more likely to have a comprehensive and well-written book.

Step Six: Revise carefully. Technical subjects often rely on data, statistics, and the work of other experts. Be sure that everything you and your writer include in the book is accurate and properly cited. Because you are the expert in your particular topic, you are the one who can give the best critiques and complete the most thorough revisions.

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Editing a Ghostwritten Manuscript: Part Two

The manuscript has been written, money has exchanged hands, and now you have a 400-page book and only an inkling of what to do next. If you’re lucky enough to have a publisher, the next steps are quite simple: turn the manuscript over to your editor and wait for his or her revisions.

If, however, you’re self-publishing or going another route, who will edit your ghostwritten manuscript? The good news is you have no shortage of options. Let’s work through a few common scenarios to see which path is right for you.

Scenario A: Working with a Publishing Services Firm

Let’s say you are working with a company that will help bring your book to life and you met your ghostwriter through said company. Don’t stop utilizing their resources now! Talk with your representative at the firm and ask about editing options. Odds are they also provide editing services or can put you in touch with a freelance editor to copyedit and/or proofread your manuscript.

Scenario B: Self-Publishing

If you are taking this project on all on your own, your ghostwriter may be your best bet at finding an editor. Ask him or her for recommendations. In some cases, ghostwriters work for companies that specialize in writing and editing, and they can direct you to a colleague.

Scenario C: Looking for a Publisher

You may not have a book deal yet, but now that you have a manuscript, you’re on the hunt for an agent and a publisher. I suggest being up front with whomever you speak with and telling him or her that the book has been ghostwritten. Don’t worry that publishers are afraid of taking on authors or books that have used a ghostwriter—it happens all the time.

The final question in your mind may be: “What do I do when I get edits back from any and all of the aforementioned sources?” If the edits are minor and you feel you are able to take care of them yourself, go for it. However, if the manuscript needs major revisions, you may want to get in touch with your writer for some help. Carrying a consistent tone and style throughout a book is important, and your original ghostwriter will be able to rework the draft better than someone less familiar with the writing. Besides, maintaining a relationship with your writer is always a good idea—who knows when the next book idea will come along!

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How Long Does It Take to Ghostwrite a Book?

Many authors want to know how soon a ghostwriter will have their book ready. Unfortunately, there is no quick and easy answer to that question. Each project is unique and thus takes a different amount of time. However, you can pinpoint a few factors that will speed up or slow down the writing of your book. I even came up with a handy acronym—PACE. Preparedness, availability, complexity, and expectations.

1.     Preparedness. Say you have all of your notes, audiotapes, files, interviews, case studies, and outlines ready and raring to go (properly organized and synthesized of course). If so, you’re a ghostwriter’s dream—they can immediately get to work on writing your book. But if you’re struggling to put together your layout and materials when you hire your writer, it may take some time for the two of you to collect and work through the information that you have.

2.     Availability. This goes for both parties. The more often that you and your ghostwriter can connect, the faster the book will come to fruition. But if you are a busy executive or your writer is juggling several projects at once, expect a slower turnaround time. Try to email, meet, or talk on the phone at least once a week to check in on the status of the book.

3.     Complexity. By nature, some books are straightforward and others can be Pandora’s boxes of intricacy. It stands to reason that the more complex your book, the longer it will take to write. To help expedite the process, look at your project and your materials as if you were a stranger to them, like your writer will be at first. Try to anticipate possible questions, tricky spots in the narrative, or confusing parts of your concept. The better you understand your book, the more helpful you will be to your writer.

4.     Expectations. Ghostwriters are happy to work with a deadline in mind, but try not to place them under the gun. Expecting a perfect, polished manuscript in a month simply isn’t reasonable. In any situation, you will want to give your writer at least 3 – 6 months to complete the project. This time frame gives you two enough time to get to know one another, transfer materials, and go through at least two drafts of the book. Don’t fall for the ghostwriting services that promise you a completed book in 90 days—even if you get your book back in that time frame, it is unlikely that you’ll be happy with the final product.

Some authors spend years slaving over manuscripts, while others are able to write 100,000 words in a month. Project goals and deadlines are important, but keep in mind that it is not the physical book that is important, but the words on the page. The more time and care you spend working with your writer to get your draft to its best possible state, the more successful your book will be.

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Editing a Ghostwritten Manuscript

Your ghostwriter has just finished the first draft of your book, and now it is time for you to review the manuscript. Follow our guide below to make sure your writer has hit the mark and to guide your revisions.

1.     Does the writing sound like you?

a.     Yes: Excellent! Gold star for your writer.

b.     No: Point out passages that do and do not sound quite right. Specific examples of word choice, tone, and style will help your writer get a better sense for how to revise.

2.     Is the writing truthful and factually correct?

a.     Yes, everything is based on my experiences or research: Great. Make sure to avoid any unnecessary fabrication.

b.     No, some parts were embellished: Be wary of passing off exaggerated stories as your own. Remember what happened to the A Million Little Pieces guy? Stick to the truth and nothing but the truth unless you’re writing fiction.

3.     Did the writer hit the key points of your narrative or idea?

a.     Yes: Good news. Make sure the big points are present and prominent.

b.     No: If you think any key items are missing, let your writer know. It can also help to pinpoint a chapter or section where you think the missing pieces should be included.

4.     Do you like the book?

a.     Yes: You should. If all has gone according to plan, you and your writer have worked together on the project and your input has been put to good use.

b.     No: Perhaps you don’t hate it, but you’re just not happy with the first draft. Be honest with you writer, and explain why you aren’t in love with the manuscript. This is your book, and you should be proud and enthusiastic to be the author.

If you are able to answer yes to all of those questions, the rest of the revisions will be easy. Pay attention to the details (such as diction—if you’ve never said obsequious in your life, don’t put it in the book) as well as the overall flow of the book. Honest, detailed feedback is the best kind, and you and your ghostwriter can work your way to an even better second draft.

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Ghostwriters and Fiction: Can They Mix?

I’ve heard people ask, “Can a ghostwriter help me write a fictional story?” Yes, a ghostwriter can help you write a fictional story. The operative word there being help.

You see, the truth is, fiction writing can be tricky. Characters evolve as you go, plot points change, and sometimes the guy you thought would be the hero is actually the villain. Now imagine that you’ve been hired to write someone else’s story, one that they’ve conjured up in their head and one that still doesn’t have an ending. Sounds a bit like mind reading, doesn’t it?

Unlike non-fiction, which is supposed to be at least loosely based in fact, fiction is all a product of the author’s imagination. If you, the author, hire a ghostwriter and say, “Look, I’ve got this great idea for a fantasy novel…” he’ll probably cut you off right there. For many ghostwriters, writing fiction is too hard and too personal to do for a client. The issues of authorship and credit get so much more complex, and it can become hard to tell who has created what.

That being said, ghostwriters and fiction are not quite as bad as oil and water: they can mix. Rumor has it that from time to time James Patterson writes a detailed outline of a book, then hands it off to a writer who has a knack for his style and tone to write the first draft. How else could the man be turning out a book or two a month?

What I’m trying to say is that it’s not a lost cause. There are plenty of ghostwriters who will help you with a fiction project, but you will have to plan accordingly. Most fiction ghostwriters will require a thorough layout of your story, complete with characters, places, plots, themes, symbols, motifs…you get the picture. There needs to be more than just a spark for the novel in your head—your writer will need all the nitty-gritty details to get the story right.

You will also have to be prepared to work hand-in-hand with your writer to make sure the novel is turning out the way you want it to. Remember that you are placing a creation of your imagination in the hands of another person, and asking them to develop it and mold it to your specifications. That’s a pretty tall order. Try not to get frustrated if your writer changes things here or there or suggests a new direction for a character. If you want complete control over your manuscript, you might want to consider working on your own.

Be very careful when selecting your ghostwriter—make sure you two have compatible book tastes and will work well together even when you’re not in agreement. Your project won’t succeed unless you two can work past differences and keep moving forward. In the end you will have to decide if the story is one that needs a helping hand, or if it is a one-man project.

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Case Study: The Business Professional

Working with a ghostwriter can be an easy and practical way for business professionals to create a book. Many people don’t have time to write, or feel they express themselves better in speech than in writing. Such situations are not atypical, and explain why so many business professionals, celebrities, and political figures choose to work with a ghostwriter.

Dr. Kay Potetz is a management consultant and has been conducting seminars since the early 1980s. Her qualifications include 25 years of management and administrative experience, a Masters Degree in Business Administration and a Ph.D. She published her ghostwritten book, Take It Back: The Personal Power You Give Away Each Day in June 2012.

Her book, based on articles and seminars she conducted, helps readers find confidence and ease in all aspects day-to-day life. The Amazon reviewers say that the book is “written in a way that everyone can relate to,” which is another benefit of working with a ghostwriter. If your writer is a good one, he or she can synthesize a great deal of information and materials into a very helpful and interesting few hundred pages. Even scientific or jargon-heavy subjects can be made reader friendly when written the right way.

I spoke with Dr. Potetz to get her take on working with a ghostwriter. She provided us with some feedback about her experiences.

1. Why did you decide to work with a ghostwriter?

Dr. Potetz: Over ten years I’d written a number of articles that had been published and I needed someone to put them together in book form for me.

2. What were some of the benefits of working with ghostwriter?

Dr. Potetz: It was better than I anticipated. My writer kept all of her deadlines and provided me with excellent work. Also, she was quite amenable to any changes I wanted.

3. Who should consider using a ghostwriter?

Dr. Potetz: Anybody with limited writing time.

To learn more about Dr. Potetz and her book, Take It Back: The Personal Power You Give Away Each Day, visit her website at www.drkkp.com. 

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Working with a Ghostwriter Long-Distance

It is not uncommon to have a long-distance relationship with your ghostwriter. In fact, some authors and writers never even meet face-to-face. For some, it isn’t always necessary to spend a great deal of time with a writer, especially if you are working on a research-heavy or fairly straightforward book. (However, if you’re writing a memoir, face-to-face meetings are a must.) Many people prefer to conduct business via e-mail or phone calls; still others view technology as a barrier. No matter your preference, there can be challenges that result from working in separate spheres. Following the tips in this blog can help make the project run a bit more smoothly.

Communicate: The first tenet of a good working relationship is communication. If you and your ghostwriter can’t meet in person, your e-mails and phone calls become even more important. Both you and your writer should respond promptly to each other and in a detailed fashion. Always make your thoughts and requests clear and make sure your writer follows through. Below are a few ways to keep the lines of communication open:

·                  Set up weekly or biweekly phone calls. A talk on the phone can be more productive than exchanging e-mails or texts and is much more personal.

·                  Create status reports. Both you and the ghostwriter can keep each other updated on where you are in the project.

·                  Save e-mails. This way, you can always refer to conversations and maybe find a hidden gem or two.

·                 Try Skyping. Using Skype or Google Chat can serve as a virtual introduction and is the next best thing to meeting in person.

Reciprocate: If your ghostwriter is doing great work and staying on schedule (or, better yet, getting things done early), return the favor. Turn your work around quickly, offer thorough feedback, and pitch in any way you can. Your ghostwriter is trying to please a client, but both of you are working to foster a strong working relationship and creative collaboration team.

Relocate: OK, not really. But even if you live in L.A. and your writer works in New York City, do try to arrange at least one time to meet in person. You are trusting your ghostwriter with your book, and both of you deserve to meet and greet each other properly. Besides, a ghostwriter can get a better feel for you and your style of speech (and, thus, writing) when you two spend time together. If the distance is vast and you can meet only once, that’s all right. You will both feel good about making the acquaintance and will likely work together better as a result.

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