Writing Someone Else's Memoir

I am currently helping a client to write an inspirational memoir in her own voice. I've discovered a few challenges along the way and I'd like to share them with you. Maybe we can both learn from them.

The Biggest Challenge:
The biggest challenge when collaborating on any creative work will always be a difference in opinions. The thing you have to remember is that this is THEIR story. They HIRED you to create something for them. They are the boss. You have every right to share your opinion and persuade them to see "The Right," but in the end you are not in charge. Giving up that control can sometimes be really hard, but you can do it. Just remember not to give up the control in your personal writings!

Asking For the Right Fee:
If you really want to know how much to charge, take a look at what other writers are charging and double it, especially if you are good. With that in mind, be willing to work for less if you really feel passionately about the project. The current project that I am working on is not paying me enough to pay the bills, but I believe in it, and I feel like my employer deserves a break. Be careful not to do this too much, though. You may never be able to climb out of the low-priced jobs if you aren't willing to charge EVERYONE your "normal" price.

Be Realistic:
Make sure when you are quoting times and deadlines that you are being realistic. Remember that it's better to overestimate the time it takes to do a project than to underestimate. People like getting things early, but abhor getting things late. 

Keep Communications Open:
The most important part of any relationship is to keep communications open and honest. If you can manage to be completely transparent, you will gain clients for life. Not only that, but they will tell their friends and they will tell their friends, and so on. Keep your relationship with your client strong by giving them realistic deadlines, telling them as soon as a problem arises, and by treating them with respect. 

That's it for today folks. Good luck with your writing and may we ever be successful!