Recently I discussed the possibility of ghostwriting a book for someone who might have been (but will not be) a new client. The story illustrates everything you should not do when you’re looking for a writer for any project, but especially for one as important and comprehensive as a book.
I was introduced to this young man by someone who used to work for a former client of mine. The book he wants to write is in the motivational/wealth-building genre, and I thought he had an interesting angle that would have been fun to do. I wish the writer he chooses all the best – but I won’t be that writer. Here’s why:
Very early in our first conversation, the potential client wanted to know how much I charge and how long it would take to write his book. I explained that I couldn’t calculate the fee or accurately estimate the time until I had a better sense of what the project would be. He continued to pressure me for numbers and I finally gave him an estimate that covered a broad range and stressed that I couldn’t finalize the amount or terms until we had the project defined. He also said that he wanted me to allow him to use my connections to help him get his book published by one of the major traditional publishers; when I explained that I am a writer, not a literary agent, he didn’t want to hear it. He said he was going on a short vacation, would work on outlining the project, and we’d get started when he returned.
We didn’t talk again for four months. I never saw an outline.
Our second – and last – conversation took place over his lousy cell phone connection. I was having a hard time understanding him, but we did manage to set up a tentative meeting. I followed up with a detailed email explaining everything we needed to address in that meeting. This would be his first book, and it was clear that he knew very little about the writing and publishing process, so I was trying to educate him.
In his reply to that email, he wrote that he had bids for lower fees from other writers. He said that I was the best writer, he wanted to work with me but could I do better on my price. I pointed out that I had not yet quoted him a firm fee or work schedule. I also explained that I don’t negotiate on fees because I am a professional and I don’t build negotiation room into my rates. I provide high quality work, but more than that, I become a part of the team; I develop long-term relationships with my clients and help them achieve their goals. Apparently, that’s not what he wanted.
So if you’re looking for a good writer or ghostwriter, try a few negotiating techniques that this young man didn’t use:
• Treat the writer with courtesy and respect.
• Follow up and do what you say you will do.
• Be willing to pay a fair and reasonable price to get a quality product.
• Understand that talented writers are in demand and may not be available to start your project immediately.
• Don’t ask a writer to do things that fall under the purview of literary agents, publicists and/or publishers.
• Treat the writer with courtesy and respect. (No, it’s not a mistake that I repeated that.)
Of course, I’m always happy to talk with you about your projects. And we’ll probably start the conversation with me asking what you want to accomplish so that I can write with your goals in mind.
