It's always a good idea to be aware of hazards on the course before you launch your next publishing project with the assistance of a ghostwriter.

Hazard 1: Paying too much for too little. A ghostwriting fee of $10,000, $20,000 or even more may be a good deal for you if you get what you need and are satisfied with the results. Too many ghostwriters, however, try to convince you that "you get what you pay for" to justify high rates that are diminished greatly in value by the time they reach the author.

Hazard 2. Tying promises to one or two successes. I call this the "coat-tails" hazard. A company may have had tremendous success with a title, but just going through the same company doesn't mean you'll have the same success. It could have been pure luck that matched the ghostwriting firm with a best-selling book.

Hazard 3. Unrealistic promises. The advertising hype for some ghostwriting services is chilling. Don't believe promotion that seems to guarantee sales of your book on the basis of catalog listings, Web exposure, or an "advertising packet" you are invited to buy. The more promises offered, the more skeptical you should be.

Hazard 4. The arrogant ghost. Most writers are polite and creative, but now and then one will come along with more buzz than bite. Be careful not to sign an agreement that does not allow you to discontinue your arrangement if you find you just don't like the progress, the style, or the quality of work being done--or the manners of the ghost.

These are just a few hazards related to ghostwriting. I'm sure that if you've had any ghostwriting experience, either as a writer or as an author of record, you could add to the list.

Every ghostwriting project is a custom job, but in general you should plan on receiving a projected cost based on the number of words in the book, the type of printing and binding you prefer, and the number of books you need.

I'd like to meet you!

If Boise is too far away, call me now at 1 800 359-9503, and let's talk.
I'll send you a packet of information, and, when you're ready for it, a proposal.

When you call, ask for Joyce Griffith or JG—or the Griffy Ghost.