There have been times on ghostwritten articles that I wrote where the client changed them so much, I was glad my name wasn't on them. 🙂 For me, however, if I didn't want my name on it because of copy practices or the topic or what have you, I wouldn't do it in the 1st place. But, that's just me.

The danger comes if/when a less-than-reputable place posts or publishes your work. That's fine if you've been well paid and it can't be traced back to you. But if your name is on it, those sites or publications – some which you might not want to be associated with – are gaining respectability by publishing work from an established writer. If potential clients see your name tied to unsavory publishers or websites, it might cost you in the long run.

Who's right? Maybe both in this case. For me, I could separate the "creative" side in deference to the marketing side, but my name would have to be removed. For someone else, the entire situation may not sit well at all. Like you said, different for each person.

Devon, my thoughts, too. If it's going into wide distribution with or without my name on it, I'm going to expect more cash for that privilege.

Amanda, thanks for sharing that. I'd love to see a post from you on how this arrangement works and how you handle it. Would that appeal?

I hadn't thought about the possibility that the client was unaware of the set-up. I guess I assumed he/she did. It's tough when two different sets of values meet head-on. For example, the client may see it as no problem = those writers chose to accept the terms – while you may see it as exploitation.

In the end, you have to live with yourself. So, my usual advice in this type of situation – listen to your gut.