7 Proven Ways to Find Ghostwriting Clients and Grow Your Business

As a ghostwriter, finding clients is the key to growing a successful business, yet it’s often one of the most challenging aspects of the profession. Ghostwriting is a unique service where your expertise remains hidden behind the scenes, which makes marketing yourself a bit tricky. Whether you’re a seasoned ghostwriter looking to expand your client base or just starting, it is vital to have a solid strategy in place to attract the right clients.

Here are seven proven strategies to help you find ghostwriting clients, elevate your reputation, and turn your writing into a thriving business.

1. Leverage LinkedIn for Networking and Visibility

LinkedIn is a powerful platform for professionals, including ghostwriters, to network and showcase their expertise. With over 875 million users, LinkedIn offers a rich pool of potential clients. However, simply having a profile isn’t enough—you need to be active, strategic, and intentional in your approach.

Here’s how to maximize LinkedIn:

• Optimize your profile: Ensure your LinkedIn headline clearly states that you are a ghostwriter. Include a compelling summary that highlights your expertise, past projects, and the value you bring.
• Share valuable content: Regularly post articles or short updates that showcase your knowledge of ghostwriting and the industries you serve. Include case studies, tips, or even success stories.
• Engage with your network: Comment on relevant posts, share others’ content, and participate in discussions related to writing, business, or your clients’ industries.
• Send direct messages: Reach out to potential clients, but be strategic. Rather than pitching immediately, engage them in a conversation about their needs and how you can help.

Tip: Join LinkedIn groups where your target audience is active, such as entrepreneurs, executives, and business leaders, and position yourself as the go-to ghostwriter.

2. Build a Strong Portfolio with Case Studies and Testimonial

A strong portfolio is crucial in establishing credibility and attracting ghostwriting clients. However, because ghostwriting is often done anonymously, it can be challenging to showcase your work. The solution? Focus on the results you’ve helped clients achieve and gather testimonials.

Steps to build your portfolio:

• Create case studies: If you’re allowed, create anonymous case studies detailing the projects you’ve worked on, the client’s challenges, your approach, and the results you achieved. Focus on measurable outcomes such as increased sales, better engagement, or enhanced reputation.
• Collect testimonials: Reach out to satisfied clients for testimonials. Even if they can’t reveal specific details of your work, they can vouch for your professionalism, communication skills, and the impact you made on their business.
• Show versatility: Include samples of different types of writing, even if they’re not ghostwritten pieces. This can demonstrate your ability to adapt to various voices and industries.

Need help crafting case studies or building your portfolio? At TEBEBA, we provide ghostwriting and content creation services that elevate your brand and establish your authority. Get in touch with us today.

3. Join Freelance Platforms and Niche Job Boards

Freelance platforms are often the starting point for many ghostwriters looking to land their first clients. While these platforms can be competitive, they also provide a steady stream of potential opportunities if used wisely.

Top platforms to consider

• Upwork: A popular platform where businesses post job listings for ghostwriters. Although competitive, Upwork allows you to build a profile, gather client reviews, and work your way up to higher-paying gigs.
• Fiverr: Like upwork, Fiverr is also a popular platform where businesses go source for freelancers. You can find jobs here, especially as a newbie.
• Scripted: This platform focuses on ghostwriters, copywriters, and content writers. It’s a good place to find ghostwriting clients who need blog posts, articles, and business content.
• ProBlogger Job Board: Many businesses and entrepreneurs post ghostwriting opportunities on this niche board.

Instead of simply waiting for job postings, be proactive. Use these platforms to reach out to businesses that may not realize they need a ghostwriter, offering them solutions to enhance their content.

4. Create a Professional Website to Showcase Your Services

In today’s digital age, having a professional website is essential to finding ghostwriting clients. Your website acts as your online portfolio, showcasing your services, expertise, and contact information in one easily accessible place.

Key elements your website should include:

• Homepage with a clear offer: Ensure that your homepage communicates who you are, what you offer, and how clients can benefit from your ghostwriting services.
• Portfolio page: Include samples of your work or demo, case studies, and testimonials. Even if you’re bound by confidentiality, showcase examples of writing styles, topics, or industries you’ve worked in.
• Blog or content hub: Create a blog where you post valuable content related to ghostwriting, writing tips, or industry trends. This will position you as a thought leader and attract potential clients through SEO. A good place to start is substack or medium.
• Contact page: Make it easy for clients to contact you. Include an email address, contact form, and links to your social media profiles.

Want a website that truly showcases your ghostwriting expertise? At TEBEBA, we offer website design and development services that can elevate your brand and attract your ideal clients. Reach out to us today.

5. Network Within Your Industry and Attend Events

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find ghostwriting clients. While online networking is crucial, don’t forget about real-life interactions. Business events, conferences, and seminars can connect you with potential clients who need writing services but may not realize it yet.

How to network effectively:

• Attend industry-specific events: Whether it’s a conference for entrepreneurs, marketing professionals, or business executives, attend events where your ideal clients are likely to be present.
• Have your pitch ready: Be prepared to explain what ghostwriting is and how it can benefit businesses. Most people don’t know what ghostwriters do, so be ready to highlight your value.
• Follow up after events: Don’t let business cards sit on your desk. After events, follow up with potential clients via email or LinkedIn and Twitter, reinforcing your ghostwriting services and offering to help them with content needs.

Here’s a tip for you: Look for local business meetups, writing workshops, and online webinars where you can position yourself as an expert.

6. Offer Free Content to Demonstrate Your Value

Simply put, work for free.

If you are just starting out, this is a fast route to help you get clients for your services as a Ghostwriter.

Sometimes, offering a small sample of your expertise can lead to paying clients down the road. Offering free content isn’t about giving away your services for free—it’s about showcasing your value upfront and building trust with potential clients.

Ways to offer free content:

• Write guest posts: Reach out to industry blogs or business sites and offer to write guest posts for free. This exposes your writing to a broader audience and positions you as an expert.
• Create lead magnets: Offer a free eBook, guide, or checklist on your website that addresses a problem your ideal clients face. Use this to build your email list and follow up with a pitch.
• Send personalized samples: If you identify a business or professional in need of ghostwriting, send them a personalized writing sample or pitch that solves a specific content challenge they have.
• By offering a taste of your skills, you can showcase your ability to craft high-quality content, earning the trust and attention of your prospects.

7. Utilize Referrals and Word of Mouth

Your current clients are one of the best sources for new business. Referrals and word of mouth carry a lot of weight, especially in an industry where trust and reliability are paramount. A satisfied client is often more than willing to recommend your services to others.

Here’s how to encourage referrals:

• Deliver exceptional service: Exceed expectations on every project so clients feel confident recommending you to their peers.
• Ask for referrals: Don’t be afraid to ask satisfied clients if they know of others who could benefit from your services.
• Create a referral program: Offer incentives for clients who refer new business your way, whether it’s a discount on future services or a small commission.

A steady stream of referrals can ensure that you always have new ghostwriting projects lined up, building long-term relationships that grow your business.

Finding ghostwriting clients doesn’t have to be a struggle. Implement these strategies consistently, and you’ll be well on your way to growing a profitable ghostwriting business.

Are you in need of our ghostwriting services? At TEBEBA, we offer ghostwriting, content writing, and other creative solutions to help you stand out and grow your brand.