How to Find a Job As a Ghost Writer

Ghostwriting involves having your work published under someone else's name. Unlike writing anonymously or under a pseudonym, your work will be officially marketed and sold as someone else's novel or autobiography. This is particularly common among celebrity authors, such as politicians, actors and athletes. Since you will have to respect the agreement with the credited author, only a few close friends and family will know that you in fact wrote the work.

Instructions

1. Create a credible portfolio of work to demonstrate you can write well under deadline. Your portfolio should include at least five published pieces, preferably in a range of styles, and a resume with a list of publication credits, with date of publication and medium. Keep photocopies of the published articles.

2. Establish a website marketing your ghostwriting skills. You should have writing samples, contact information, a profile and a resume on the site. Make sure you have permission from the original publisher to republish your work online.

3. Bid on work on ghostwriting jobs that have been posted on Elance.com or freelancegigs.com. These sites are limited to freelance writing and ghostwriting jobs. Most of these jobs pay very little, but might provide an opportunity to network with publishers. If the story is captivating and sure to be published, it might be worth taking a chance on a low-pay job.

4. Establish contacts with agents and publishers. If you have already published a few works of your own, it will be much easier for you to acquire these contacts and get ghostwriting jobs. Sometimes, agents who are familiar with your work will put you in contact with potential collaborators. Wait until you have already made some strong initial contacts to complete this step. Make it clear to agents, editors and publishers that you are looking for nontraditional work, such as ghostwriting, to enhance your earnings. Ask about ghostwriting opportunities and find out how to get on the short list of writers contracted for ghostwriting. One approach is to build a strong network in your local community, with city editors, publishers and public personalities in your area.

References

• Ghostwriting Uncovered: How to Find More Ghostwriting Jobs
• Grumpy Old Bookman: Ghostwriting for Beginners