You’ve decided to make the leap and hire a ghostwriter, but you have no idea where to start. Ghostwriting is a niche industry after all, and many of us have never met or talked to a ghostwriter. But have no fear, Sean is here! I’ve come up with nine tips to help you choose a ghostwriter (the best ghostwriter!) for your project.

Tip #1: Start with the basics

To get a feel for your potential hire’s experience level, ask the writer how long they’ve been writing and how many books they’ve written.

Tip #2: Request testimonials

Request testimonials from their former clients and also their upcoming schedule. As you choose a ghostwriter, this knowledge will help you know whether or not they’re worth spending your own time. If a writer is too busy, as much as they want to write for you, they might not have time!

Tip #3: Find out a little about them

Ask the writer about their personal writing strengths and weaknesses to get a feel for whether or not they can represent your voice and vision in writing.

Tip #4: A Google search!

Plug the writer’s name into an internet search engine and see what comes up. You’ll want to determine if they are renowned for their own work or if they are unknown.

Tip #5: Get a sample

Request a few sample pages (for a fee, of course!) so you know the writer can produce well-written content in a timely manner. You want to choose a ghostwriter that can match your voice.

Tip #6: Ask about pricing

Ask for a tentative quote, or even the general range of what they charge, for the type of work you’re seeking. If their price is outrageously low, chances are their content will be low-quality as well. Better writers have higher rates.

Tip #7: Sign a contract

Make sure the writer will sign a contract as well as a non-disclosure agreement before your project begins. Expectations and safety measures should be firmly in place.

Tip #8: Set expectations

Clearly convey you expect exclusive material that was been originally written just for you.

Tip #9: Make sure you connect

Ask the writer to share a little bit about themselves both personally and professionally. This will be a very personal experience! You need to get a feel for their personality and whether or not you can work with them comfortably long-term.

These nine tips cover just about everything you’ll need to know and do as you choose a ghostwriter that’s right for you. The process may take time, and you should interview several writers, but there really is a ghostwriter out there for everyone. So do some digging, and choose a ghostwriter that fits your needs!