We’ve been asked for a typical job advert for hiring a ghost writer. Not easy, as terms and conditions will vary according to the circumstances of both parties.

Here’s one to get you going, with spaces for you to add your own details. It’s neither right nor wrong, just one option from a multitude. Use this as a framework for discussion, rather than an absolute contract for terms. This isn’t intended to form any contract between us and you – it’s for information purposes only. Feel free to customise as you see fit.

Always take legal advice when entering into agreements – this is time well-spent as copyright infringement and other issues later could be expensive.

I am looking for a native English speaker with experience writing short stories in the [ENTER GENRE HERE] genre.

I need [QUANTITY] [TYPE OF WRITING – NOVEL / SHORT STORY / NON-FICTION etc] written, of [WORDCOUNT] words each.

I can send you storylines and themes to choose from, or you can let me know what you’re interested in.

Payment is [AMOUNT AND CURRENCY] for [SPECIFY WHOLE JOB / WORDCOUNT / OTHER].

PLEASE NOTE: I am looking for a writer to work with long-term.  I have many projects and need somebody to work with on a regular basis provided the writing is top quality. 

Work must be 100% original.  I will not tolerate plagiarism.  I will verify each submission to check for this and any plagiarised works will be reported and not paid for. 

By applying/accepting this job you agree this is a work for hire situation. 

You agree to the following conditions:

1. You will own no rights to the work or parts of the work

2. Your name will not appear anywhere on/in the work

3. I will decide who should appear as the author at my absolute discretion.

4. You will have no rights to royalties or other payment that might arise from the publication of this work

5. You cannot use any part of the work for any purpose. 

You must include:

A basic 1-2 paragraph description that simply explains [DESCRIBE WHAT NEEDS EXPLAINING]. 

Thank you for taking a look at this project and I look forward to developing a long-lasting working relationship with you.   

Note: Please respond to this personally with an attached sample of your writing or your application will be deleted without review.

By no means exhaustive, but it gives you a framework. If conditions seem tough, this is what is expected in many such arrangements. It’s good to spell things out from the outset. You may chose to vary or add to these conditions, subject to your negotiations with the ghost writer.