In this blog I will be talking about my experience working as a ghostwriter for an online company; starting with the job application to how I landed my first project.
Step 1: Apply
Like all job applications, the application process took some time and effort. It was not easy to get in but not hard to apply. I applied through this website and answered a few questions, then I had to submit a short writing sample. This was only the beginning but I was already excited and tackled this application like I would my first writing project. The moment I got the email that I passed the first test, I was ecstatic. This was only the start and my application was far from done but I was ready and motivated for whatever came next.
Step 2: Get In
The next step, better put, hurdle was to write a few chapters for a novel. I could choose the plot outline that I resonated with and had three days to finish my first ever chapter. Thinking back, now that I have written numerous books already, the first chapter I had to write, was my most challenging to date.
I wanted to get in so badly that I spent the next three days glued to my screen, determined to write the perfect chapter. I went through so many emotions, most of all I was tackling the monster in the back of my head that kept telling me that I was not good enough. After some tears, I eventually slayed that monster and submitted my first ever chapter. I was beyond nervous, checking my emails every 5 seconds to make sure I don’t miss an update.
To my surprise, I got in! This day was kind of a turning point in my life, I always loved to write but never truly dared to show my writing to anyone. Not only did I conquer the fear of potential embarrassment but also got a new sense of belief in myself and my skills that I had never had before. It was exciting to be a part of something great, a creative community where there were lots of others exactly like me.
The Urban Writers does a lot to build community, you get access to their platform and a slack channel where there is loads of ‘coworkers’ to connect with. You never have to feel left out in the dark because if you have a question or concern, there is a very good chance that someone else also had a similar one. The slack channel has helped me a lot with getting started on the platform, dealing with queries and in landing my first project.
The company has a great community of creatives and in my opinion this is one of the best parts of being a freelancers on this platform. You never have to feel alone, from sharing funny meme’s to dealing with platform queries, anything you need answers for, you will get.
Step 3: Admin
Landing a spot on the platform was only the first step to successfully landing projects. After signing the contract, there are a few things you need to do before applying for available projects. You can customize your profile, write a bio, your experience, and even add samples of previous work. This can take some time to complete and get right, but after your profile is ready, it only ads to the motivation to land a job.
Depending on your writing reviews and scores, you fall into a payment tier, which can change and upgrade in time. If your profile is set up and ready you can start by browsing available orders, and applying for the ones you resonate with. The platform offers several writing niches, but you can only see projects available in the niches you’re approved for.
Step 4: Land a Project
To apply for the project you’re interested in, you need to submit writing samples and engage in conversations with the client. There’s a lot of time spent that isn’t necessarily compensated, but as a beginner, the grind seems worth it. Clients can reach out to you, but that doesn’t happen often due to the fierce competition. I don’t recommend relying on just one platform for projects; keep your options open and explore opportunities in places you might not have thought to look.
Hard work, dedication and keeping on keeping on has brought me way further in life than any strike of luck could.
Check out this blog for tips on working with an assigned editor.
Step 5: Get Paid
After you submit your writing, you get paid and you are done. Whatever comes next, is your client’s problem and I love that fact. I don’t pretend to be a businesswoman or NY Best Seller yet, I am a writer and I just want to write.
In my opinion, online companies are a great gateway to start your Ghostwriting career. It is also a great for a clients, that want a drama free experience and fast service. Sure, there was challenges along the way, especially when the deadline is getting close and the writers block is in full control. Luckily, with a great community, you never have to feel alone in your struggles.
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