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.

Contact the Jenkins Group and tell us about your project