Developing the Perfect Ghostwriter/Client Relationship

Being online for slightly less than the length of a pregnancy, I can now confidently say that ghostwriting has been the most fluid way for me to find my way to financial success, at least so far. And though I believe the ceiling for earning potential with ghostwriting is high, I also believe it takes far more than having the ability to write. More than just the written word, a ghostwriter’s level of communication must be superior in all levels.

High expectations exist for a ghostwriter’s work before we are ever contacted. Potential clients imagine we are the ones who will be able to render their dreams to reality. It is our job to make this happen. First and foremost we must be able to respect a non-disclosure agreement. For many people hiring a ghostwriter, discretion is key. Ghostwriters might never claim credit for the work they do while ghosting, but we are often rewarded at a slightly higher pay scale for our silence.

Strengthening the ghostwriter/client relationship is something that must be maintained from first contact. Properly gauging client expectations is the best way to ensure that you not only meet them, but consistently and easily surpass them. Here are a few tips to make certain you are starting your relationship off with your best foot forward.

1) Be observant. Whether you are only exchanging an email or are conducting long phone interviews, being a diligent observer is one of the most important attributes of any professional writer. The greater the writer’s interest in the subject matter, the better the writing will naturally be. Listening to the potential client, both in what is communicated and what is not, is the best way to rally your own interest.

2) Make your exchange as personal as you can without ever once abandoning the professional tone. Build the right rapport and it will be easy to settle any miscommunication that might occur. All freelancers would also do well to remember that the first round of communication is an interview for both parties. If there are any visible warning signs that the client might be too demanding or difficult, it is best to decline the job from the  beginning. Dismissing a client is never as easy as never taking them on. It is always better to walk away from the track then to keep running around it.

3) Be aware of phrases that jingle your warning bells . If you hear any of the following, it is possible the client isn’t the best fit:

You might have to do a little research… the client has a concept for a book, but will expect you to do all the research and articulation for the final product.
This one’s a quickie… the client has a fundamental misunderstanding about the time and effort it takes to properly craft outstanding copy.
This should be an easy job… see above.
I could write it myself, but I don’t have the time... this client might fancy themselves a writer. They will want to copy edit everything you do. Proceed with caution.

Being a professional ghost writer is an excellent profession and one I’m proud to hold. It takes time to build a scaffolding strong enough to stand on for a long while, but it is always worth the effort to do so. Stand firm with your values and expectations. Don’t work for less than you’re worth. Slow and steady will win the race, and it is far better to have a stable of appreciative clients who provide you with consistent, repeat business than it is to have a lot of one shot clients who micro-manage and over negotiate.

The best relationships are those where each party feels as though they are getting the best end of the deal. For a ghostwriter, this means finding clients who respect their skill and professionalism while remaining tuned to the needs of their clients.

Ghostwriter Dad

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I can’t wait to hear from you!
SeanMichaelPlatt@gmail.com (562) 972-6842.