Spotting Red Flags: What to Watch for in a Ghostwriter
From the desk of Jeffrey Allen Mangus, CEO, Mangus Media Group
Being a professional ghostwriter for almost a decade, I’ve seen and heard a lot. As CEO of Mangus Media Group, I've learned more about what makes a good ghostwriter-client relationship. It's not just about finding a good writer; it's about finding the right fit. I built my team with the best writers and publishing professionals, selecting each one for their experience, personality, and commitment to professionalism. Why?
As a potential client, you need to be aware of the red flags you’ll find with other agencies that you won't find here. I wanted to provide you with some insight to help you make the best choice for your book and the team you hire to accomplish your dream.
Not every client is a good match, just like not every ghostwriter and author relationship works out.
I recently had a stark reminder of this. I met with a potential author who, despite offering a substantial sum, immediately gave off an air of arrogance and made some truly inappropriate remarks. Within seconds, I knew it wasn't going to work. My gut told me to walk away, and I did.
Over my ten years as a ghostwriter, I've gotten pretty good at spotting these red flags early on. I've learned to recognize the subtle cues that indicate whether a working relationship will be a good fit, whether it's a client who micromanages or someone with an overly demanding personality.
But it goes both ways. There are also ghostwriters out there who have their own set of red flags. To help you navigate this, here are some key warning signs you should look for when choosing a ghostwriter:
My Top Warning Signs for Unprofessional Ghostwriters
Are They Terrible at Communicating? This is a huge one for me. A professional ghostwriter should always respond promptly to emails, calls, and messages. If someone is difficult to reach or takes a long time to reply, that's a red flag. The most concerning sign is an unresponsive ghostwriter. While personal emergencies can occur, they should always inform you and communicate any unavailability or delays. When you start working together, discuss your communication expectations, submission preferences, and meeting patterns to make sure you're both on the same page.
Are They a "Dick and Jane" Entry-Level Writer? Poor writing skills are a major warning sign. And frankly, any ghostwriter who relies heavily on AI is a huge red flag for me. Professional ghostwriters need strong, authentic writing skills—that means solid grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Their ability to capture your phrasing and voice is also essential. Always examine their sample work for style, sloppiness, errors, or incoherent writing.
How Long Have They Been Ghostwriting? A lack of experience or a thin portfolio can be a big concern. Professional ghostwriters should be able to provide a portfolio or references that showcase their expertise. If they lack work samples or references, it's worth asking questions. While newer ghostwriters might not have a massive portfolio, ask for their personal writing samples and use your best judgment.
Do They Miss Deadlines and Are Unreliable? For me, meeting deadlines is a top priority because project timelines are critical. If a ghostwriter consistently misses deadlines or fails to deliver work on time, that's a significant warning sign. It could mean they've taken on too much or aren't giving your project the attention it needs. This needs to be addressed, or it's time to find a more professional ghostwriter.
Are They Unwilling to Sign a Contract? A professional ghostwriter will always clarify and detail all the terms in writing through a contract. This agreement should outline all key details, including payment, deadlines, and confidentiality. If a ghostwriter refuses to sign a contract, doesn't provide one, or won't discuss terms in writing, take a step back and reassess. This is a major red flag. Always insist on detailed terms in writing—it protects you from potential issues and ensures your book project stays on track.
Do They Lack Transparency? Ghostwriters should prioritize clear information about their process, fees, and any potential conflicts of interest. If they're reluctant to disclose these details, that's unprofessional. Ask about their book writing process, what it entails, and the expectations and goals you should be aiming for.
Do They Act Professionally? Unprofessional language, attitude, or behavior is a huge red flag. Ghostwriters should always conduct themselves professionally and respectfully throughout the entire book process. In meetings, a professional ghostwriter should be attentive, avoid distractions, and give you their full focus. If they're not paying attention, how can they truly capture your voice and the essence of your personality?
Are They Asking for an Enormous Down Payment? If a ghostwriter who isn't well-established in the industry demands an unreasonable amount of money upfront, it might signal a red flag. A typical down payment percentage usually ranges from 30% to 50%. Anything significantly over that might be a massive red flag.
Do They Keep Breaking Promises? Empty promises are a concern. If they keep pushing deadlines or aren't following through on tasks, they might be too busy to give your book their best effort.
Are They Having Trouble Capturing Your Voice? This is one area where you, as the author, need to practice patience. Ghostwriters may need some time to adjust to your writing style, and the first draft might not be perfect. Give them specific instructions about what needs improvement and request a new draft. This process helps you assess their receptiveness to feedback and their ability to follow instructions. If they can't handle those tasks, they might not be the right person for your project.
Ultimately, choosing your ghostwriter and team is your decision. Trust your instincts, do your research, and follow your intuition. There are many excellent ghostwriters out there—and I'm proud of our agency and our team. Finding the right professional can truly be the difference between writing your book and falling short of your goals.
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