How to Find a Good Ghostwriter

In a business where content is essential and good content writers can be hard to find, hiring a good ghostwriter can be one of the best decisions you make. That being said, hiring a good ghostwriter isn’t always easy. It can be a long drawn out process of trial and error to find the one you work best with.

Here are a few steps to help you make the process easier and more efficient.

Step #1  Outline your project or content needs in detail. Not only what you need and when you need it but also the voice and style you want the content to be in. If you’re unsure about the voice and style, find examples of content you like online. Create a package, blueprint or guide to be able to give your chosen ghostwriter.

Why create your project needs before you find a ghostwriter?  Because you want to find someone who can handle your project and content needs. Ghostwriters have specialties and some have very specific styles. You want to find someone who can represent you accurately.

Step #2  Ask friends, family, business partners and associates whom they do business with, whom they know in the writing industry and whom they recommend. Make a list of these names and research them online.

Step #3  Start researching for ghostwriters online. Do a Google search for writers who specialize in your niche or your content needs or search social networking sites such as LinkedIn to find reputable ghostwriters and start sending inquiries. Make sure you ask for both their price rates (which can vary greatly in this business) as well as samples of finished work.

You can also post your project on freelance websites and have the writer come to you however you will be weeding through a lot of unqualified writers to find the one or two good ones.

Step #4  Check references. As the ghostwriters respond to your inquiries, start collecting and checking references. You’ll also want to review their writing samples with an eye toward your particular needs. Keep in mind you’re looking for a ghostwriter who responds to you in a timely manner, is easy to communicate with, professional and has a good reputation in the industry.

There are many ghostwriters, but not all of them are able to meet deadlines, write well and communicate effectively.

Step #5  Hire your ghostwriter and start them with a small test project. It can be something as small as simply writing a blog post or two. This test project is designed to not only make sure you’ve hired the right person but to also make sure you have an effective communication system down pat before you start with the big projects.

Once you have found a good ghostwriter or two, keep them busy and pay them well and on time. Relationships are built over time and they’re two way streets. Take good care of your good ghostwriters and they’ll take good care of you.

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