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.

Contact the Jenkins Group and tell us about your project