Whether you are a seasoned author with several years of experience or someone who has just decided to write their first novel, everyone can agree that writing a novel can be a daunting task. Writing a novel requires more than basic writing skills and passion. It demands your time, energy, and a lot more.
If you do not feel skilled or available enough to write a novel, it does not mean that you must give up on your dream. You can always hire a ghostwriter to get the job done.
But, the question many ask is how they can hire the right professional ghostwriter for their novel. This guide can provide you with all the answers.
Know What You Want
Before you look for a ghostwriter and start communicating your vision with them, it is important for you to have a clear understanding of what the vision is. If you are not sure what you want, even the best novel writer for hire may not be able to help you.
It is better to take your time to define and understand your goals. You must articulate your vision for a novel to communicate the scope of work with your ghostwriter.
This information can help you know exactly what you want and find the ideal ghostwriter for your needs.
Figure Out Your Finances
Everyone who seeks to hire a ghostwriter wants to find the best professional in the field. However, as we all know, the most recognized ghostwriters can also have the highest pay rates, which many people cannot afford.
Before making a list of the best ghostwriters you want to hire, it is important to determine your budget. Once you know your financial limits, you can narrow down the search and find someone who aligns with your budget and vision.
Do Your Research
Once you narrow down the options for a ghostwriter who fits your vision and budget, it is time to start your research. You must look into their backgrounds, especially if they have any experience in writing novels. It can give you insight before finalising a ghostwriter.
After you have looked into their experience, previous work, and track record, you can also ask them for their clients’ testimonials to assess their credibility. From there on, you can discuss further with them or simply cut their name out of your list of potential ghostwriters.
Ask for Samples
One of the biggest injustices you can do to yourself while hiring a ghostwriter for your novel is not to ask them for samples. Writing samples from ghostwriters provide you insight into their work and if they match your vision for your novel.
Writing samples can help you determine if the potential ghostwriter’s style, tone, and storytelling skills align with your vision. If not, you can freely move on to discover other options for potential ghostwriters for your novel.
Go Through the References
Any ghostwriter with exceptional skills and a good track record will have nothing to withhold from sharing, especially when it comes to references from previous clients. It is always advised not to pursue working with any ghostwriter who is reluctant to share their references.
Speaking with a ghostwriter’s previous clients can provide valuable insights into how your experience will be working with them. You will learn a great deal about their work ethic, ability to meet deadlines, professionalism, and overall conduct.
Prioritise Compatibility
Leading your novel to completion with the help of a ghostwriter can be a long task. This partnership can take weeks, even months, to finalise the manuscript. You do not want to be stuck with someone incompatible for such a long duration.
You do not have to rush into hiring a ghostwriter. Take your time to analyse their previous work and discuss their approach to writing a novel. Make sure that they are the ones to bring your creative vision to life before you hire them.
Say Your Piece
One of the most common reasons for people to trust ghost writers with novels is because they are experts in the field. They may have written several other novels and you can easily trust their expertise on the subject.
However, It does not mean that you have to hold back from saying your piece. After all, you have the rights to your novel, and your approval matters the most.
At the day’s end, it is your novel, and your opinion matters the most. You can specify what you want and do not want to be included in the novel. A ghostwriter can add to your vision and help you clarify it even further to bring the best out of it.
State the Ownership Rights
While hiring a ghostwriter for your novel, you may think that the ownership and other rights are clear. However, you cannot hold a verbal agreement as proof in a court of law. You must clearly define ownership rights and bind them in a contract.
A formal contract can help you avoid any future legal disputes over the ownership of your work. In addition, you will also enjoy peace of mind knowing that no one will ever threaten the ownership rights of your novel.
Do not rush into signing the contract after a verbal discussion. Make sure that the contract includes all terms and conditions that you agreed upon, especially regarding important aspects such as project timeline, confidentiality rights, and scope of work.
Communicate Openly
It is crucial to maintain open communication with your ghostwriter to ensure that your novel reaches completion according to your vision and within the stated deadline. You have the right to ask your ghostwriter to keep you updated on important aspects of your novel.
This practice helps you ensure that every step of the creation of your novel falls in line with your vision. In addition, you can also keep track of the agreed-upon deadlines so that you do not have to face unexpected delays in your publishing journey.