Ghostwriters: Having Trouble Creating Shareable Writing Samples for Attracting New Clients?
Get tips on how to boost your writing portfolio and create shareable samples — without violating confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements.
Why Professional Writers Need Writing Samples
Professional writers need writing samples on their author profiles, websites, or blogs because these serve as their portfolio, demonstrating expertise, writing style, and versatility to potential clients, publishers, or employers. In a competitive market, having accessible samples allows decision-makers to quickly assess a writer’s ability to craft engaging, high-quality content tailored to their needs.
Writing samples build credibility by showcasing mastery of grammar, tone, and storytelling. They act as proof of experience, especially when writers lack formal credentials or industry connections. Whether a writer specializes in blog posts, technical writing, copywriting, or journalism, samples provide tangible evidence of their skills.
Furthermore, samples help writers attract the right audience. A well-crafted portfolio ensures potential clients see the type of content they need, reducing time wasted on mismatched projects. Writers with strong, niche-specific samples are more likely to be hired for high-paying, specialized assignments.
Having published work on a personal website or blog boosts search engine visibility, increasing opportunities for organic client discovery. Regularly updating samples also signals ongoing professional growth. Ultimately, writing samples function as a powerful marketing tool, proving a writer’s value and making it easier to secure consistent, high-quality work.
5 Proven Strategies for Ghostwriters to Showcase Their Skills (Without Breaking Confidentiality)
Ghostwriters often face difficulty showcasing writing samples because their work is published under a client’s name, meaning they can’t claim authorship or publicly share the content. This lack of visible proof makes it harder to attract new clients, as potential buyers want evidence of writing quality, expertise, and style.
However, several viable solutions can help ghostwriters overcome this challenge and secure new projects:
1. Create Anonymous or Speculative Samples
Ghostwriters can craft sample articles, blog posts, or book excerpts that demonstrate their expertise in a specific niche without breaching client confidentiality. These can be showcased on their website, LinkedIn, or portfolio platforms.
Q: What is a speculative writing sample?
A: A speculative writing sample is a piece of content a writer creates without a paid assignment or client request, solely to showcase their skills, expertise, and writing style. These samples are designed to mimic real-world projects, demonstrating the writer’s ability to handle specific topics, tones, and formats.
For ghostwriters, speculative samples serve as a workaround for the challenge of not being able to share client work. They can create blog posts, articles, book excerpts, whitepapers, or case studies that resemble the type of content they typically write.
2. Get Your Client’s Permission to Use Existing Content
Some clients may allow ghostwriters to share a redacted version of their work or mention their involvement discreetly. If possible, negotiate for the right to share a limited sample after a project is completed.
Q: How can I get my client’s permission to showcase ghostwriting samples?
A: Use the following tips to request permission to use pre-written samples.
Negotiate Sample Use in the Contract
Before starting a project, include a clause in your contract that allows you to use a portion of the content as a portfolio sample. You can specify conditions such as:
- Using only an excerpt (not the full piece).
- Sharing it privately with potential clients instead of publishing it publicly.
- Delaying its use until after a certain period.
Offer Redacted or Modified Samples
Some clients may allow you to showcase an altered version of the work, such as:
- Changing names, company details, or industry-specific terms.
- Rewriting the piece while keeping the original structure and style intact.
Ask for a Testimonial Instead
If a client is unwilling to share samples, they may be open to providing a written testimonial about your work. A strong recommendation from a satisfied client can help establish credibility.
Request a Byline on Certain Projects
Some clients may be willing to credit you as a co-writer or editor, even if your main role was ghostwriting. This allows you to share the work under your name without compromising the client’s identity.
Provide Private Samples to Potential Clients
If public sharing is not an option, ask for permission to show samples privately to prospective clients. Some businesses may allow this as long as it’s not widely published.
By presenting these options professionally and highlighting how showcasing your work benefits both parties (by demonstrating your expertise), you increase your chances of gaining permission while maintaining trust with your client.
3. Use Testimonials & Case Studies to Showcase Your Talents
While ghostwriters can’t always share content, they can collect testimonials from satisfied clients. A case study summarizing the project’s goals, writing process, and results (without revealing sensitive details) can also serve as proof of expertise.
Q: How can I use testimonials and case studies when I am unable to share confidential writing samples with potential clients?
A: When you are unable to share confidential writing samples, testimonials and case studies become powerful tools for demonstrating your expertise and building credibility with potential clients. Here’s how you can effectively use them:
Leverage Client Testimonials
Request feedback from clients after completing a project. A testimonial doesn’t need to reveal the specific details of the work but can focus on:
- The quality of the writing.
- How well you captured their voice or brand.
- Your professionalism and ability to meet deadlines.
- The impact your work had on their business (e.g., increased engagement, improved sales).
Example: “Working with [Your Name] was a game-changer for our blog. The articles were consistently engaging and perfectly aligned with our brand tone. We saw a 20% increase in reader engagement after their content went live!”
You can include these testimonials on your website, LinkedIn profile, or in email proposals to provide social proof of your capabilities.
Create Case Studies
A case study outlines the process and results of your work without revealing confidential details. To make case studies compelling:
- Outline the Problem: Briefly describe the client’s challenges or objectives (without naming the client).
- Detail Your Approach: Explain the steps you took, such as research, writing style, tone, or specific strategies used.
- Show Results: Highlight the measurable impact of your work (e.g., increased traffic, improved conversion rates, etc.). If exact metrics can’t be shared, focus on qualitative results (e.g., client satisfaction or positive feedback).
Example: “A client in the tech industry needed engaging blog content to drive awareness for a new product launch. After implementing an SEO-driven content strategy and adapting the tone for their audience, traffic to the product page increased by 15%.”
Focus on Industry Knowledge and Expertise
In case studies, emphasize your understanding of the industry and the type of work you can produce. Even without specific samples, showcasing your deep knowledge and your ability to solve industry-specific challenges can be just as persuasive.
Use Samples of Non-Confidential Work
If you have any writing that is publicly available but not confidential, such as guest posts, articles you’ve written under your own name, or content for companies without a non-disclosure agreement, use these as mini case studies. Explain how this work benefited the client or brand.
Share Results from Multiple Projects
If you have multiple projects that are similar in scope or style, summarize your successes across these projects while protecting client anonymity. This way, you can demonstrate your versatility and success without violating any confidentiality agreements.
By focusing on client feedback and the results you’ve helped clients achieve, you can provide strong evidence of your writing expertise even without sharing the actual content.
4. Write Guest Posts Under Your Own Name
Writing guest blog posts or publishing industry-related articles under their own byline provides a legitimate way to showcase writing ability.
Q: How can I create professional writing samples through guest posting?
A: Creating professional writing samples through guest posting is an excellent way to build your portfolio while also gaining exposure and establishing credibility. Here’s how to effectively use guest posts to create high-quality writing samples:
Target Relevant, High-Quality Websites
To build a strong portfolio, aim for reputable websites or blogs that align with the types of clients you want to attract. These sites should have a solid readership and an editorial process that reflects the quality standards you want to showcase.
- Research websites that accept guest posts in your niche (e.g., content writing, copywriting, digital marketing).
- Ensure the site has an active audience and maintains professional content standards.
Write High-Quality, Value-Driven Content
Your guest posts should reflect the caliber of work you want to showcase to potential clients. Focus on creating well-researched, engaging, and original content. Key elements include:
- Clear structure: Use headings, bullet points, and short paragraphs to make the post easy to read.
- Actionable insights: Provide valuable tips or insights that readers can apply, demonstrating your expertise.
- Engaging tone: Ensure the writing resonates with the audience and is aligned with the website’s tone.
A well-written guest post acts as a sample that will reflect your skills, from research to writing style.
Showcase Your Expertise with Niche-Specific Topics
Guest posts are a great opportunity to showcase your expertise in a specific area. Write about topics within your niche that you want to attract clients for. For example:
- If you’re a copywriter, write about effective email marketing strategies.
- If you specialize in technical writing, submit a guest post explaining how to write user manuals or guides.
The more specific and relevant your guest post is to your target clients, the more it will appeal to them when reviewing your portfolio.
Include a Bio with a Link to Your Portfolio
Most guest posts allow you to include a brief bio at the end with a link back to your author profile, website, or portfolio. This is a valuable opportunity to direct readers to more of your work. Ensure your bio highlights your skills and includes a call-to-action for potential clients to reach out.
Example: “Jane Doe is a freelance writer specializing in content marketing and SEO. Visit her portfolio at [your website] for more examples of her work.”
Promote Your Guest Posts!
Once your guest post is published, share it across your social media channels and with your network. This will increase the visibility of your writing and demonstrate that you can generate traffic and engagement—valuable assets for clients. Additionally, by sharing your guest posts, you position yourself as a thought leader and attract new opportunities.
Build a Collection of Guest Posts
Over time, collect and organize your guest posts in one location (on your website or portfolio). This growing body of work will showcase your range, writing style, and expertise. Having a robust collection of guest posts allows you to pitch confidently and gives potential clients plenty of samples to review.
Use Guest Posts as Writing Samples for Future Clients
Once you’ve established a portfolio of guest posts, you can use these as writing samples for potential clients. Whether through email pitches, LinkedIn outreach, or client proposals, guest posts act as proof of your writing ability without revealing confidential work.
By strategically choosing platforms, crafting well-researched and valuable content, and promoting your posts, guest posting can become a cornerstone of your professional portfolio.
5. – Leverage NDA-Free Work
Not all ghostwriting work requires strict confidentiality. If a project does not have an NDA, the writer can request acknowledgment or use the content in their portfolio.
Q: How can I leverage NDA-free work to build my writing portfolio?
A: Leveraging NDA-free work is a smart strategy for building your writing portfolio because it allows you to showcase content you’ve created without the restrictions of confidentiality agreements. Here’s how you can effectively use NDA-free work to enhance your portfolio:
Identify NDA-Free Projects
Not all writing assignments come with a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Look for opportunities where you can retain the rights to showcase your work publicly. These can include:
- Guest posts: Articles you write for external blogs or websites, where you retain rights to the content.
- Personal projects: Content such as blog posts, ebooks, or case studies you create for your own brand or as part of your marketing strategy.
- Publications: Articles, research papers, or whitepapers that you write for public distribution or that are published under your name.
- Freelance work without an NDA: Some clients may not require NDAs, especially for smaller projects or those that are not high-profile.
If you’re unsure whether a project is NDA-free, check the terms outlined in the contract or agreement with your client.
Organize and Showcase Your Work
Once you’ve identified NDA-free pieces, start compiling them into a well-organized portfolio that is easy for potential clients to navigate. A clean and professional presentation of your work will make it easier for prospective clients to evaluate your skills.
- Create categories: Group your work by writing type (e.g., blog posts, case studies, technical writing) or industry (e.g., healthcare, technology, marketing) to appeal to specific client needs.
- Use your website or portfolio: Host your NDA-free work on your own website, portfolio site, or LinkedIn profile. Ensure that it’s accessible and presents your best work.
- Provide context: For each sample, include a brief description explaining the project’s goals, your approach, and the results. This shows your thought process and value as a writer.
Highlight Results and Metrics
Whenever possible, demonstrate the impact of your writing. If your content led to increased web traffic, improved engagement, or boosted sales, highlight these results.
- Quantify success: For example, you can say, “This blog post increased website traffic by 30%” or “The case study resulted in a 15% increase in lead generation.”
- Use testimonials: If the client is willing, ask for a testimonial or a short quote about how your work benefited them. Even without a direct testimonial, you can still showcase positive results from the project.
Use Non-Confidential Content as Speculative Samples
If your NDA-free work isn’t enough to fill your portfolio, consider using it as a speculative sample to demonstrate your writing style and ability.
- Create hypothetical content: Write content in the style of real client work. For example, if you’re targeting marketing clients, write a blog post on a popular industry topic to show your writing style and expertise.
- Mimic real-world scenarios: Write sample content for industries you want to work with but haven’t had the chance to do paid work for yet. This will show potential clients that you can handle the type of content they need.
Promote Your NDA-Free Work
Once your NDA-free work is organized in your portfolio, promote it through different channels:
- Social media: Share your articles, blog posts, or case studies on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. This not only showcases your writing but also increases visibility to potential clients.
- Networking: When networking with potential clients or agencies, share your NDA-free work as samples to demonstrate your skills.
- Pitching: When pitching to new clients, include links to your portfolio or examples of your NDA-free work that are relevant to their needs.
Add a Disclaimer or Permission Note
If you’re showcasing work that isn’t publicly available or you don’t have explicit permission to share, be transparent about it. Include a brief note such as:
- “This sample was created for a client in the [industry] sector and is presented here with their permission.”
- “This project is available for view as part of a non-confidential portfolio.”
Being upfront shows professionalism and helps manage expectations around the work you’re showcasing.
Use NDA-Free Work for Client Proposals
When pitching to potential clients, you can use NDA-free work to support your proposals. Providing clear, tangible examples of your writing (and the results) increases your chances of winning the contract. Clients are more likely to trust you with their projects if they can see your previous work, even if it’s not directly linked to the industry or topic of the proposal.
By strategically utilizing NDA-free work and promoting it across different platforms, you can effectively build a compelling writing portfolio that demonstrates your skills and helps you attract new clients without compromising confidentiality agreements.