Writing a book for a client can be a rewarding ghostwriting project, but it also comes with unique challenges. Below are some key things to consider when taking on a ghostwriting job:
Research the topic and client thoroughly. Before agreeing to write the book, conduct in-depth research on both the proposed topic and the client. For the topic, research what has already been written to avoid duplication and identify gaps or new angles to explore. Also research the target audience to understand their interests and knowledge level. For the client, research their background, expertise, and vision for the book. This research will help ensure you write a book that is compelling, original, and aligned with the client’s goals.
Clarify the expectations and deliverables up front. Have detailed discussions with the client about what they envision for the book – its purpose, tone, style, intended audience, suggested length, etc. Clarify logistical expectations like your work timeline, availability for feedback cycles, permissions needed, royalties or profit-sharing agreements if applicable. Put all important details in a written contract to avoid misunderstandings later on.
Develop an outline and get sign-off before writing. Based on your research and discussions, craft a detailed outline laying out the book’s overall structure, main points for each chapter, and any other elements needed. Get the client’s approval on the outline before beginning extensive writing. Outlining ensures you and the client are aligned on the book’s direction and content before a full draft is produced.
Interview the client as needed. For non-fiction works, interviews with the client will be valuable to capture stories, anecdotes, lessons learned, or other personal experiences to include. Schedule focused interviews to gather new quotes, facts, or perspectives to enrich the narrative. Audio record the interviews for easy reference later.
Fact check thoroughly. Regardless of the book’s genre, fact checking is crucial. Thoroughly verify all facts, figures, dates, translations or interpretations of research through reliable secondary sources. Ask clients to double check direct quotes, personal details or professional credentials as well. Keep digital or physical records of your sources to seamlessly cite them in footnotes/endnotes or a bibliography.
Anticipate the client’s feedback style. Some clients provide extensive line edits throughout, while others prefer a high-level review. Discuss and agree on their preferred feedback style. Be prepared to accept edits graciously through multiple draft iterations, potentially adjusting your writing style or tone based on their guidance. Build in adequate buffer time for incorporating feedback between drafts.
Consider copyright and ownership issues. Determine clearly who will own the copyright over the finished work – the ghostwriter, the client, or a shared arrangement. Address permissions needed for any included content or collateral usage of the manuscript after book publication. Having ownership squared away with a copyright assignment letter is critical.
Market the book post-publication. Ghostwriters are sometimes asked to assist with book marketing, such as drafting a press release, blurb, or social media posts. Discuss the client’s expected level of involvement versus help needed from the writer. Be prepared for additional hours spent on marketing after the manuscript is complete.
Address payment timelines up front. It’s common to receive a partial payment or retainer at the project’s onset, followed by subsequent payments upon outline approval, first draft delivery, and final draft approval before publication. Establish a reasonable payment schedule that accounts for the time and work involved at each stage.
Maintain confidentiality and objectivity. As a ghostwriter, you are representing someone else’s ideas, brand and expertise. Approach the work with tact, discretion and an outsider’s neutral perspective. Keep all client discussions and drafts private unless given permission otherwise. Maintain credibility as an impartial professional.
Taking the time for extensive planning, collaboration, fact-checking and feedback will result in a successful ghostwritten book that represents the client’s vision. Proactively addressing logistical and legal specifics will protect both parties and allow the focus to remain on crafting a high-quality final work. With diligence and professionalism, ghostwriting can be a fulfilling endeavor for both writer and client.