Over the last ten years of ghostwriting, I’ve had exactly five clients attempt to negotiate a deal with me. The first wanted a longer manuscript for less money; the second wanted to pay me more for less work; the third claimed he needed extra revisions; the fourth desired complimentary editing by a third party; and the last negotiator requested my first born.
I’m kidding about the final circumstance, but honestly, when did ghostwriting become something akin to purchasing a used car?
No one wants to believe that they are getting ripped off, and I completely understand that. The fact, however, is that I use a standard contract with all of my clients, and my quotes, deliverables and time frames are non-negotiable. Ghostwriters have a very specific job descriptions, and if you allow clients to talk you into things, you’ll end up with an empty bank account and an unsatisfactory resume.
When hiring a ghostwriter, you have to trust that the ghostwriter knows more about his or her industry than you do. Attempting to negotiate a contract or to convince the ghostwriter to offer you more for less will only result in the end of your business relationship. Not only that, but if a ghostwriter agrees to your negotiations, you will rarely receive top-notch work.
Having said all of the above, however, what you should also realize is that ghostwriters are self-employed. That means that a ghostwriter can change the rules whenever he or she wishes, and if you are a good client, you are likely to reap the benefit. For example, I have one client who hired me to write three books at a rate of $10,000 each. I did the work and was paid on time, and because of his valued business, I gave him the fourth book half-off.
So even though negotiating is not considered standard practice for ghostwriters, it never hurts to play your cards right.
If, however, you have spoken with a ghostwriter about writing your manuscript and, when you see the contract, realize that it is hopelessly one-sided, you should bring it up. There are many unscrupulous ghostwriters out there who try to take advantage of naive clients, and please don't allow yourself to be manipulated. Don't try to negotiate a fair contract, but certainly don't sign an unfair one.
Laura J. College is a professional ghostwriter with more than ten years' experience writing fiction and non-fiction manuscripts. Her work can be found all over the Internet, and she is currently accepting ghostwriting clients. Check out her website at http://www.laurajcollege.com.
Source: www.articledashboard.com
