What the Best Ghostwriters Do to Be the Best

by | Jan 17, 2011

In a previous post, I established that I love, love, love being a ghostwriter.

  • The fact that I do, often surprises me
  • As a middle child of seven, I certainly have a healthy ego
  • It’s that need to be heard

But, it’s my love of storytelling that trumps any ego problem associated with the lack of a byline.

Not everyone is an effective ghostwriter.

The Spiritual Need

If you —

  • Are a ghostwriter
  • Thinking about becoming one – or –
  • Are hiring a ghostwriter

Here are tips from the best ghostwriters.

1. Know Your Client

Wear the suit of the client.

  • Understand the client’s business, motivation and passion
  • Know what drives them and why
  • It is your job to pull out the passion
  • And express it in the voice of the client
  • Wear the client’s suit and own it

2. Write With Your Ears

The story is not about you.

  • It is about the person you represent
  • It is their “sound bites,” their beliefs, their passion
  • The best listen – ask questions – and listen some more

3. Share Your Own Passion

Success is a shared experience.

  • The best ghostwriters are motivated by their client’s passion
  • They take pride in their success
  • Great ghostwriters share their passion of the written word

4. Take an Active Role

  • Offer advice and know when to push back
  • Do more than take notes
  • Results matter

5. Manage the Project

  • Meet deadlines
  • Help set realistic expectations and obtainable goals
  • Manage delays and keep the project on track

Grasping the Intangibles

Technical/creative skills vanish when connection fails.

The best ghostwriting relationships spark a unique connection. You cannot define that intangible element.

The first step should be a face-to-face or telephone meeting.

  • Is there a mutual comfort and trust level?
  • Do both parties feel a connection?

Finding the right ghostwriter is like a marriage of passion, values and a shared need for success.

What qualities do you think a ghostwriter should possess?

i-Stock Photo Credit: File #: 7651663

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