Should Freelancers Ghostwrite?

Freelance writers often learn that compromising is a fine art that must be learned for success. Often, assigned projects aren't as creative or interesting as some writers might like them to be, and dealing with different editors can seem like a real pain. There are many rewards that come with freelance writing, however. Of these, the byline might be one of the most exciting. Seeing one's own name attached to the article they wrote can be a thrilling feeling.

And it does not exist with ghostwriting. While many freelancers find that it's hard to find job opportunities for writing alone, some discover that there are a variety of ghostwriting gigs available. When money's tight, writers might be swayed to give up their bylines and sell articles on a ghostly basis. In a nutshell, this means that the writer's actual name won't appear on their writing - someone else's will.

For writers, even freelance writers, seeing their work with someone else name attached is usually an experience best avoided. It can be hard to see someone else claim your own hard work, and many find the taste of ghostwriting sour after seeing it with their own two eyes. It's hard to work on a project, only to watch someone else steal the glory. Going without a byline to make a buck always sounds like a good idea, but experiencing it is something else entirely.

Should freelancers ghostwrite? Chances are, if a freelance writer can find ghostwriting opportunities, they can also find opportunities that will allow them to keep their bylines and gain credit for their own hard work and efforts. For freelancers, it's important to always add to their body of work, their collection of published articles. Ghostwritten articles usually can't be included in the writer's clips and samples, nor will they promote the actual writer's name. For freelance writers, their name is their reputation. Their name is everything, and ghostwriting takes even this very basic nomenclature away.

Going without a byline to make a buck is only a good idea when it's absolutely necessary. It's better for freelance writers to build on their own name, and to produce work that will carry their byline. This way, new people can find the writer, and more job opportunities might result. Ghostwriting usually isn't a good idea for freelancers, unless they're just starting out and want to gain some real writing experience.