by haleycclark
Ghostwriting is one of the freelance writing industry’s most mysterious professions. Every now and then, ghostwriters will make headlines for being the talent behind a celebrity’s catchy lyrics or a famous author’s poetic prose.
They definitely exist, but what exactly do ghostwriters do? Where can you find ghostwriters for hire? Most importantly– should you be a ghostwriter, too?
What are Ghostwriters?
Ghostwriters create lyrics, novels, or screenplays and sell them to someone who will claim authorship of the work.
Claiming the authorship of the work might mean putting their name on the book’s front cover or claiming the lyrics as their own on an album.
Why would someone want to hire a ghostwriter?
Not everyone can write and even fewer can write well. A celebrity might have an idea for a best-seller but have no idea how to craft a story. A businessman may want to write the next blockbuster movie yet lack the time to get it done.
The ghostwriter has the time and the expertise while the credited author has the award-winning idea.
Ghostwriting is a legal profession. That’s because the individual purchasing the ghostwritten book, song, or screenplay must have supplied the original idea for the piece of writing. This is so that they own the intellectual property– the only aspect of a creative work that is legally bound.
Where to Find Ghostwriters for Hire
1. Freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Guru.
Anywhere you can hire a freelance writer, you can probably find a ghostwriter.
2. Ghostwriting groups like TheWritersforHire, Rhyme or Reason, and SoundBetter.
Song ghostwriting groups like Rhyme or Reason and SoundBetter offer services for songwriters and rappers.
3. Agencies like Gotham Ghostwriters, KA Writing, and Arbor Books.
By far, the largest industry for ghostwriting is book writing and book ghostwriting agencies have cornered this market. Agencies tend to have higher qualifications for their writers and working relationships with big publishers.
Should You be a Ghostwriter?
Ghostwriting jobs can be a great way to make money as a freelance writer. However, it is one freelance writing career that takes a few years or a lot of experience to break into.
Have you published a book under your own name? Do you have a history of success ghostwriting for others? Have you been working as a successful freelance content or copywriter for many years?
If you can confidently answer yes to one or more of these questions, you may be qualified to apply for ghostwriting job.
One thing to consider before pursuing a career as a ghostwriter is: do you need the spotlight for your work? Some writers crave feedback from their audience and can’t work without that affirmation. If you’re okay with letting someone else accept the praise for your work, though, ghostwriting might just be the perfect freelance writing career for you.
What do you think? Leave a comment and let me know if you are interested in working as a ghostwriter. Happy writing!
Haley Clark | Freelance Writer 
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