Writing Jobs for Ghost Writers

Book Ghost Writing

Many of the books on the shelves of your local bookstore were actually written by ghost writers rather than by the individual named as the author on the cover. Many times, individuals with ideas for books lack the skill or time necessary to turn their thoughts into complete manuscripts. They often contract with professional ghost writers, who are able to turn their thoughts into manuscripts suitable for publication.

In some cases, ghost written manuscripts are self-published, either as books or e-books. In others, they are shopped to publishing companies in consideration for publication. Some publishing companies actually have ghost writers on staff, who are responsible for working with contracted authors on solicited manuscripts.

These types of writing jobs for ghost writers are generally reserved for experienced professionals. If you want to pursue book ghost writing, it's important to build an impressive portfolio of published work, as well as editing experience. Many successful ghost writers get experience working in the editorial departments of book publishing companies before beginning ghost writing careers.

Web Content Ghost Writing

Many Web site owners contract with freelance writers or writing services to create ghost written content for their sites or to use in their online marketing efforts. These types of writing jobs for ghost writers typically involve writing keyword articles designed to drive traffic to a particular site. In some cases, ghost written articles are added to Web sites as a way of boosting search engine optimization (SEO) through the addition of fresh content. In other cases, ghost written articles are utilized in article marketing strategies designed to help position the client as an expert in his or her field or to boost SEO by generating backlinks for one or more of the client's sites.

Because Web-based marketing is so widespread and continues to grow in popularity, there are numerous opportunities for skilled writers to provide Web content ghost writing services. Many novice writers find Web content writing is the ideal way to gain experience in professional freelance writing. Typically, clients contract with ghost writers to provide full rights content for a set rate per article or per number of words. Pay rates can vary widely for this type of work, based on many different factors. Many Web site owners need significant quantities of content and often look for writers who will perform services for very low rates. Others are willing to pay better rates for higher quality work.

Looking for Writing Jobs for Ghost Writers

When looking for opportunities, the Internet can be a valuable tool. However, it's important to exercise caution when responding to online postings for ghost writing assignments and other types of freelance writing opportunities. There are plenty of unscrupulous people seeking to solicit writing work without following through with payment. Before accepting writing work, take steps to make sure that you're working with a legitimate client who you'll be able to locate once the work you perform is completed.

It can be a good idea to use the services of an established, reputable freelance writing job board to market your work and/or services to clients. Doing so can help you avoid unscrupulous individuals. Working with this type of organization also provides an assurance that you can focus on writing without having to concern yourself with collections or worries of not getting paid for your work.

Look for a company that charges writers a percentage of completed work rather than one that requires writers to pay a fee to register or participate. RentACoder and Constant content are examples of a few popular sites among writers and clients alike.

Rent A Coder

Many ghost writers find RentACoder to be an excellent resource for ghost writing assignments. Clients post requests that registered writers can bid on. When posting a request, clients specify the range they're willing to pay for completed work along with specifications and a description of the project.

Registered writers can bid on the projects that interest them. Clients have an opportunity to view writer profiles, ratings based on past work through the site, and sample work uploaded by the bidders before making a decision. At the time a client accepts a bid, he or she is required to make payment in full, which is held in escrow until the work is satisfactorily completed. Upon completion of the assignment, payment is credited to the writer, less a percentage as specified in the site's terms of use. There is a formal procedure for dealing with disputes, which provides a protection for both writers and clients.

Constant Content

Writers who register with Constant Content have an opportunity to submit work on any subject. All content is scrutinized by an editor, who makes a decision to accept or reject the content based on quality and compliance with guidelines. Accepted content is offered for sale on the Web site, where clients seeking content can view snippets prior to purchasing. Content is transferred to clients only after payment is made, and writers are compensated on a monthly basis, once their accounts reach a certain threshold.

Writers specify their own prices and control whether their work is offered for sale for full rights, unique rights, or usage rights. Constant Content keeps a percentage of each sale. While most work is submitted on spec, there are also opportunities to work with clients on a "private request" basis through the site.

Is Ghost Writing for You?

If you want to work as a professional writer but aren't concerned that you get byline credit for everything you write, you may find that ghost writing is a lucrative and rewarding career that you will enjoy.