Starting a business as a ghost writer in the UK can be a fulfilling and profitable venture. Here are some tips to help you get started
Becoming a ghostwriter is not particularly a writer’s dream job because not getting credit for your work. However, you can surely make a whole lot of money anyway.
Before you start your ghostwriting business, you need to determine what types of writing you want to specialize in. This could be anything from academic writing, business writing, memoirs, or even fiction.
Ghostwriting is an emerging field and there’s a growing demand for it. Some people want to write but have no idea about writing or don’t know how to make an impact with their words. This gives writers a chance to share their skills to earn a good amount.
Starting a business as a ghostwriter can be a lucrative and fulfilling career move in the UK. Especially for those who understand writing and know how to deliver the right information in the right form and words. However, like any other business venture, it bears some risks and demands some skills to get ahead in the existing competition.
In this blog, we’ll share some tips on how you can start your business as a ghostwriter, particularly in the UK market.
Identifying Your Niche
Writing for every industry can be very tricky and will eventually distract you from becoming an expert. Start by researching the industry and understand which niches are more common. Brainstorm the ideas you have and research what niches have the most scope.
Then finally choosing a niche to which you want to serve. Your niche should align with your interests and skills so that you can deliver your best from day one.
Your beginning decides your end. So, give yourself some time to think and pick wisely which projects you want to take. Plan on deciding your boundaries and limits so that you can deliver the best work because ultimately it’s your clients who are needed to be satisfied with high-quality work.
Build Your Portfolio
Here’s a question: how will you get the clients on board? Just making a pitch or writing a proposal won’t get you a client. You’ll have to show them your past work samples so that they can have an idea of how your work might look.
The collection of your best work is called a portfolio. Where a usual portfolio can vary from a pdf file or booklet, you should have a portfolio website. A website portfolio is a great way to showcase your talent and skills, you can add many samples segregated with different clients, content types, etc.
Being a writer you must have worked for many clients and industries maybe. But don’t make the mistake to showcase all your work. That can make a mess and nobody’s got the time to read all that. Make sure to add your best work that follows the current trends and practices. Statistics show people work more with individuals and businesses with testimonials and reviews. While gathering some samples, don’t forget to compile some reviews of your satisfied customer.
Your portfolio should showcase your writing skills and include samples of your best work. It’s important to have a strong portfolio to help you win over potential clients.
Once you’re done with the portfolio, it’s time to reach your potential clients.
Market Your Service
For you to get the clients, you have to be at the right time with the right people. That’s where social media comes in handy. Through the social media revolution, we are now a global village and can connect with people sitting anywhere in the world. Follow the people working in the same industry or follow relevant hashtags to connect with more people looking for ghostwriting services.
Create a website, blog, and social media profiles to showcase your writing skills and reach potential clients. Network with other writers and industry professionals to build your brand and expand your reach.
Networking is a major part. To land your first client you have to build your network and start to market your service.
- Attend networking events and collaborate with working professionals to market your services. This way, people would be aware of your services.
- Build positive and long-lasting relationships with your clients to ensure repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.
- Create a website and business cards to market your services and make it easy for clients to find you.
Setting Your Rates
Assume a client comes on board, what amount would you quote? You have to get this thing sorted too.
Research the writing industry and the rates people are charging in the niche you’re working in.
In every niche, you’ll find many ghostwriters with various years of experience. Segregate them into three tiers based on their experience.
For instance:
Tier 1: 8 years above
Tier 2: 3-7 years
Tier 3: 2 years of experience
That segregation will help you out in finding the average rate people charge for ghostwriting services. Consider your level of expertise and experience and set a rate for every service you are offering. People love a good bargain. To stand out from the existing competition, set a lower competitive rate. This way, more and more people can work with you.
This doesn’t end here. Setting up your financial goals is a major step. Without any aim, you’re unable to motivate yourself. Determine your financial goals and align all your work and efforts to attain them.
Determine what you will charge for your services and make sure your rates are competitive. You may want to consider offering discounts to new clients to help build your business.
Legal Matters
Having a well-drafted contract in place is essential for any business, and ghostwriting is no exception. A contract helps to ensure that both you and the client are on the same pitch. It also clears the terms and conditions of your agreement with the motive to protect the rights of both parties. Don’t forget to add the following clauses to the contract:
Scope of work – A detailed description of the work you will be competing for the client, everything from the deliverables to deadlines.
Payment terms – The payment amount, payment schedule, and payment methods should be clearly stated in the contract.
Intellectual property rights – The contract should clearly state that the client will own the copyright of the final work and that you will have no right to use the work without the client’s permission.
It’s vital to involve a qualified attorney and seek legal advice when drafting a ghostwriting contract. Make sure the terms added in the contract complies with the laws and regulations.
Starting a ghost writing business in the UK can be a challenging but rewarding venture. By following these tips and working hard, you can build a successful and lucrative business as a ghostwriter.
Setting up a career in ghostwriting is challenging but with great effort and the right path, you can set up a good profitable business as a ghostwriter. Remember that the key to success in this field is perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to continuously improving your craft.
As a ghost writer, your writing skills are your most important asset. Make sure you are an excellent writer and have a strong grasp of grammar and style. Consider taking courses or workshops to hone your skills.
