What is Ghostwriting? No, you are not leaving spooky messages on a mirror fogged up by the steam from the shower.

Very simply, Ghost writing is writing content that someone else puts their name to.  This can be in the form of letters, articles, advertising material or e-books. Some people ghost write entire novels for others and this is particularly common in celebrity autobiographies.  I’m sure you didn’t think that celebrities actually sat down and wrote the books themselves now did you?

There are so many people out there who have ideas for things they want to write but for many they simply don’t have the time or the patience needed to do it.  Website owners are perfect examples.  These people need quality content for their websites, and if they plan on selling an e-book they need ghostwriters to complete this work for them.

What does it take to be a ghostwriter?

To be a ghostwriter the first thing that you need to be able to do is write.  It also helps if you have a passion for writing as this makes things so much easier.  You should have a good grasp of the English language along with grammar, spelling, and punctuation.  You will also want to have your own unique writing style.  This is what will get you noticed especially when you start to market yourself.

Being a ghostwriter means that you will probably be able to work from home.  You will need to be able to organise yourself and learn to prioritise. Remember that as a ghostwriter you will be working for yourself. You are receptionist, filing clerk, purchasing officer, accounts clerk and oh yes writer. In addition to this you still have your private life.

The most importantly aspect of successful ghostwriting is the ability to meet deadlines. Your client expects you to have their project completed on time and let’s face it, your reputation depends on your reliability.

Naturally in this day and age you must be computer literate. Not only for writing but using the internet for research and using email to contact your clients.

To get started in your ghostwriting career you will need:

A computer and printer
An internet connection, preferably Broadband but dial is OK.
Email address
Organisational and time management skills
Samples of your work. Published or unpublished.

Finding work is not as easy as it was a couple of years ago but with the right advice and guidance you will know where to look.  Marketing yourself as a ghostwriter is just as important as job hunting so be sure to register with the likes of EzineArticles and start posting some articles.  These articles include what is known as a resource box which tells readers a little about you.  You can also include a link to your website.   These articles can also be used as samples of your work.

Ghostwriting is not about you, it’s about writing what your client wants.  You will need to be open minded and willing to write from your clients point of view.  If feel strongly against something, don’t apply for the job.  Your clients want you to get their message across, to sell their products or services, and promote their business.  It’s all about your clients and if you fail them you lose your credibility as a ghostwriter.

Be wise, do your research, and find out everything you need to know before you jump into ghostwriting.  You don’t want to end up in a job you don’t like.

In saying that, ghostwriting can be a great way to earn money, have fun and keep doing what you love, which should be writing.

Until next time,

Keep Writing.

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