The Process: Working with a Ghostwriter

The process for creating a book in conjunction with a ghostwriter depends on the project and also the stage that the project has reached. A typical book project will follow most or all of these steps.

Initial discussions

The first thing that needs to happen is that you need to get in touch with me and give me an indication about the sort of project you are contemplating (for instance, are we talking about a book or a software manual).

From this point we can get a formal confidentiality undertaking in place and discuss the project. At this stage it is often good to meet face-to-face, if possible, however, if this is not practical, then we can talk on the phone.

Agree to work together

Once you are happy that I am the right person for the task, and I am certain that I can deliver what you want by the deadlines you want, then we can put a contract in place. I favor a simple contract that sets out:

• what each of us will do
• the timeframe within which we are aiming
• the financial terms
• confidentiality provisions

Research

Once we have agreed to work together the research phase begins. This is where you tell me what you want me to write the book about.

For an autobiography the best way is usually for me to sit down and interview you. However, this is not the only option.

For other sorts of publications such as business manuals, there may be notes or other written materials already prepared by you or collated by other researchers. Whatever resources there are, give them to me and I'll find my way through them.

Agree an outline

I will then review the research materials and from this will draft an outline setting out how the final book could look. This outline will include a table of contents and a summary of each chapter.

Depending on the phase of the project when I get involved, it may be necessary to submit a formal proposal or outline to the publisher. If a proposal is needed, then I would prepare one at this stage.

Write the thing

Once we have agreed the outline and, if appropriate, the publisher has given the project the go ahead, then I will get writing.

You are unlikely to see or hear from me for a while, however, I may be in touch from time-to-time to check facts and to make sure I have got the tone right.

Deliver a first draft

When it is ready, you will be the first and only person to see the first draft. This is your opportunity to change things. If something isn't right, then say so. After all, this is your book: I'm just the ghostwriter.

Revision

I will then incorporate your comments and produce a revised draft. I will keep making changes until you are happy that we have got it right.

Submission

Once you are happy with the book and you have given me permission to show it to other people, then we can send it off: usually the first person the book will be sent to will be the editor. I will then work with the editor and the publisher's staff to finalize the book.

You can start organizing your publicity tour!