What Is A Ghostwriter?

A ghostwriter is someone who writes a work for the author, as the author without credit. In other words, the ghostwriter writes the author’s story. But the author’s name is the only one on the cover of the book.

The book tells the story of Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist who focuses on female education. But Malala didn’t write the book herself. Journalist and author Christina Lamb was the person who actually wrote the story.

The byline author is still involved in the process; they are also usually the person who comes up with the initial concept or idea. And everything is done by the book: Ghostwriters know upfront, when they sign the contract, that the author will retain the rights to whatever work the ghostwriter produces for them.

Their whole life has been based around acquiring skills as an athlete, politician, musician, or fill-in-the-blank. Many celebrities probably don’t have the first clue how to write a book — even one about themselves!

Difference Between Co-Authoring and Ghostwriting

There’s a difference between the terms co-authoring and ghostwriting. Co-authors get credit for the parts of the book they write or edit. Their name is on the cover in smaller print under the author’s name — think “with John Smith” or “and Jane Doe.” However, ghostwriters normally do not receive any byline.

These two processes work a little differently, too. Co-authoring is typically more collaborative. A co-author contributes their creative vision to the book. Their voice is a part of the story. The co-author also may want to implement ideas for marketing and selling the book. And since their name is also on the cover, they have the right to do so.

A ghostwriter, however, does not help with the book’s concept or creative vision. Their only job is to adapt their voice to the author’s and to write the book exactly as the author wants it written. The author is in control of all decisions about the book’s ideas and tone.

Both options have pros and cons. At the end of the day, the decision really depends on the author and how they want to tell their story — whether they’re okay with someone else helping make those decisions, or whether they have a clear vision and they simply need somebody to put it on paper for them.

Your Obligations Prior to Hiring Ghostwriter

You shouldn’t expect to have your ghostwriter create your plot, characters, settings, and other important literary devices. Yes, they will help you develop them through their words. But the ideas behind them should be yours.

Normally, if you present a professional ghostwriter with the task of fully creating your book–from ideas, plotting, planning, writing, etc.–the reaction you’ll receive might not be the one you want. I’ve heard from many ghostwriters that this becomes insulting. If they’re going to do literally everything, they might as well just write the book under their own name and take the credit. That being said, some will still accept your job, but be prepared to pay a much, much larger premium.

Another major thing you should have complete–especially for a novel– is a detailed outline of your project. Remember, this is your project — not the ghostwriter’s. You need to give them detailed instructions on which direction you want your story to go. If you’re looking for collaboration in that department, you’ll want to build it into your contract.

We’re Here to Help!

29 Best ghostwriting jobs sites

1. Upwork

Upwork is the biggest freelance platform that you can find online. And, naturally, it’s a great place to search for the highest paying ghostwriting jobs. Whether you are an experienced writer or a newbie, you will find a job that fits your skills.

It is worth mentioning that in May 2019, Upwork presented a new connects policy. And now, freelancers should pay from .15 to 800.05 to submit a proposal for a job post. The good news is that invitations from clients continue to be free.

2. Freelancer

Freelancer is another popular platform that can help you to land ghostwriting jobs. It works in the same way as Upwork does. The only difference is that you don’t need to pay for submitting proposals for job posts.

Besides, if you have already written a book, but haven’t sold it yet, you can sell it at Freelancer. Some clients use this freelance platform for hunting for unpublished writings. So if your book is a good read, you will make money on it really fast.

3. Fiverr

Another option to find ghostwriting jobs is to become a seller on Fiverr. For using this platform, you should create gig packages and set the specific price for your writing services.

Psst: Have you heard about Hectic? It’s our new favorite tool for freelancing smarter, not harder. Client management, project management, invoices, proposals, and lots more. Hectic’s got it all. Click here to see what we mean.

4. FlexJobs

If you are interested in getting a remote job, visit FlexJobs. This platform will not only provide you with access to ghostwriting jobs, but also allow you to use such educational resources as webinars, skill tests, and freelancing tips for free.

5. SolidGigs

If you’re constantly trying to just keep up with balancing work, looking for ghostwriting jobs, upkeep a personal life, and would love if someone else did the job searching for you — try SolidGigs. It’s a gig finding service that sends you top tier freelance jobs directly to your inbox once a week.

6. FreedomWithWriting

The vast majority of modern companies publish new jobs on their websites and social media accounts. But as a ghostwriter, you know that it’s a time-consuming task to check updates on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and corporate websites.

7. Studicus

If you are an expert in academic writing, check out this website. Here you can find dozens of ghostwriting jobs. Whether you have a background in marketing, engineering, healthcare, economics, or other fields, Studicus will provide you with relevant projects to work on.

The level of your income will depend on your experience and your productivity. If you are a recent graduate with little knowledge, you can write research papers and essays for high schoolers.

8. Writers Work

Writers Work is a unique website that helps to build a career in writing. It provides career training, writing tools, an online portfolio, and other resources. And, most importantly, it allows writers to find ghostwriting jobs quickly and easily.

Writers Work scours the World Wide Web for the best writing gigs and delivers them straight to writer’s dashboard. It helps to optimize the job searching process and achieve better results.

9. PeoplePerHour

10. Toptal

Toptal is a freelance platform that accepts elite writers only. If you prove that you have excellent writing skills, you will be listed on this site. You will get a chance to reach wealthy clients and land some of the best ghostwriting jobs.

Resource:

https://www.briantracy.com/blog/writing/ghostwriter-for-books/
https://kindlepreneur.com/how-to-hire-a-ghostwriter/
https://millo.co/ghostwriting-jobs