Here's a startling statistic: Over 80% of the population wants to write a book someday. However, only 1% will ever attempt it. That's a huge opportunity for ghostwriting! So, if you're a freelance writer, chances are you can make a lot more money as a ghostwriter. Even if you're not a writer, but an expert in your field, you can still profit handsomely as a ghostwriter. There are tremendous benefits to ghostwriting, including:

?Great pay

?Steady work

?Less "pitching"

?Wonderful variety

?Freedom and flexibility

?Ability to choose and line up a few, select projects each year

?Spend more time writing and less time looking for jobs

?Make more money with fewer projects!

So how do you find these lucrative writing assignments?

Here are seven ways to break into the ghostwriting genre and find those big-money gigs:

1. Make connections:

Most clients who are going to invest significant money to have a book ghostwritten are going to want a recommendation or referral from a trusted source. That's why it's so important to begin to build your network and get the word out about your ghostwriting services. To find high-paying ghostwriting assignments, attend networking events, become more active in the community (both local and online!1 ), make contacts with other writers and editors, and expand your network.

2. Use your expertise to conquer a niche:

Use your current skills and experience. If you're career coach, then you're already well positioned to write for a client who wants a career book. If you've got a background writing sports features, you'd be a great ghostwriter for a sports figure. The same goes if you've got any experience in health care, law or general business. Use your expertise to find clients in those areas. Many doctors, lawyers and executives want to write a book, but don't have time. That's where you come in!

3. Use current clients, editors and referrals:

If you're a freelance writer, then you've already got editorial connections and contacts at various publications. Use those current "clients" to get referrals for potential ghostwriting clients and opportunities. Referrals are a key source for finding potential "authors."

4. Use Guru.com, elance.com, craigslist and other online sources:

Writing websites and freelance sites are another great route to ghostwriting gigs. Sign up on sites like these and check their many freelance job listings, online forums and resources.

5. Locate and market to busy corporate executives and CEOs:

Business leaders and executives are perfect candidates for ghost writing clients. Use your business contacts and network to find CEOs and other business leaders who may be ready to write their book.

6. Use opportunitis in Online Marketing:

The Internet offers almost unlimited no or low-cost opportunities to market your ghostwriting services. Visit writer's sites such as WritersDigest.com, WritersMarket.com or Mediabistro.com. These and other sites provide resources, classes, links and info to get your writing on the fast track. In addition, be sure to launch your own website or blog to market your services.

7. Follow the ghost trail:

Fellow writers and ghostwriters are also a great source of leads and referrals. Since ghostwriters can typically only handle one or two clients at a time, buddy up with fellow writers and offer to take on their "extra" clients. You could even offer a finder's fee to the writer you "sub-contract" with.

Follow these suggestions and you'll be on your way to ghostwriting success!