The freelance writing world is often viewed as competitive. It can be easy to operate from a fear of lack, wondering if there’s enough work to go around and keep the projects flowing in.
This mindset can be especially tempting for a luxury item, like ghostwriting. How many people would want to make that investment? The answer: a lot. Books are incredible, evergreen assets that many people don’t have the time, energy, or expertise to complete themselves.
There are plenty of projects to go around. While this blog might seem a bit strange, we’re going to talk about why ghostwriters should stick together and why the writing/publishing world should come together with an abundance mindset. The more, the merrier!
Different Niches
Different ghostwriters have different types of books that are their bread and butter. At the very least, if they don’t focus on one particular type of book, they probably have certain types of books that they don’t love to work on.
Sometimes I encounter projects that aren’t a great fit for me. I don’t like to take on a new project just for the sake of taking on a new project. That’s not good for anyone. I do, however, love to refer projects that aren’t a good fit for me out to other ghostwriters who may be a fantastic fit. This becomes a win for everyone!
To be able to do this, though, requires developing a network of trusted ghostwriters. This network is most effective when there’s an energy of abundance flowing. We can all help each other while having successful businesses.
Capacity Constraints
Books are big projects. They take a long time, involve quite a bit of effort, and require you to really get into the mind of the author. Therefore, ghostwriters can only work on so many projects at a time and deliver a quality product.
While everyone is different, I generally limit myself to three projects at a time. Everyone operates in their own way, but it’s just a fact that a ghostwriter can only take on so much.
When this happens, we have a couple of options. Ideally, the author can join our waitlist, but that doesn’t always work for the author. Some authors want to move rather quickly. In those instances, it helps to have a network of ghostwriters to hand off overflow work to.
Different Packaging
Ghostwriters vary in the price points they serve at, the offers they create, and the timelines they operate on. Just like each ghostwriter is unique, each author is unique as well. Some potential clients may be looking for more or less than what we ourselves offer.
Sometimes we can flex to the needs of the author, but sometimes we need to call a spade a spade and realize that logistically it won’t work. In those cases, having a varied network in the writing world allows you to be able to place that author with someone who can help bring their vision to life within the parameters that they have in mind.
Many writers like writing because of the solitude. But the truth is, we can create win-win scenarios by cultivating our network and genuine relationships. I believe that when we help add value to others, we are positioning ourselves to expand in incredible ways.
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Disclaimer: This blog should not be construed as providing, or intending to provide professional financial, legal, psychological, or other professional advice. It is simply meant to share my experiences with those who may find them relatable and helpful.