How to Choose a Ghostwriter

An aspiring author has a lot of choices when it comes to choosing a ghostwriter, be it a firm or a freelancer. Choosing the right ghostwriter doesn’t have to be hard if you follow a few simple rules.

If you’re looking for a ghostwriter, there are several must-ask questions that will steer you away from the fly-by-night freelancers. The process of looking for a writer should be as thorough as looking for a doctor.

Before you sign a contract with someone to write your book, make sure that he or she has proof of the following:

* He or she is NOT a referral agency farming out your work to incompetent writers.
* A relationship with a publishing law firm and insurance company—for your protection.
* Full insurance against PLAGIARISM and defamation lawsuits.
* A guarantee that you own 100 percent of ALL the rights, profits and royalties to your book.
* A listing with Dun & Bradstreet and Literary Market Place.
* Writing supervised by professional, on-staff editors and proofreaders.
* Total confidentiality and nondisclosure—you don't want your ghostwriter claiming ownership after you’ve nailed your book or movie deal.
* Full publishing and promotional services including literary agents, TV, radio and print.
* All the promises in writing—be sure that everything is marked in the contract!

There are a lot of people making a lot of promises to hopeful authors. Good firms will guide you through the entire process of writing your book, from concept to marketing.