Ghostwriters wear many hats. Being a coach is one of those. Ghostwriters don’t just write. They help provide guidance throughout the project on how to approach the book process, how to stay focused to make maximum impact, how to structure the book, and how to share your message with impact.
Ghostwriters also create an environment that holds space for the author to be vulnerable, work through tricky topics, and maybe even have a revelation that they weren’t expecting. Personally, being on the interviews for the books is my favorite part.
But wearing the hat of a coach also requires the ghostwriter to lean into their leadership role. While it’s the author’s book, they are making a significant investment in you as the ghostwriter to get them through the process. This sometimes means having a conversation about what’s working well and what isn’t working well to keep the project on track to be a success.
Here’s why it’s important as ghostwriters to lean into and own that leadership role in a project.
Different Expertise
While the author is the expert on the subject they are writing the book about, the ghostwriter is the expert in the book writing process. They are trained and have experience in what works and what doesn’t work, making the project and the final product most effective.
While we always want the author to love the book, we can still bring best practices to the table while catering to the specific needs and desires of the author. Authors have a specific vision for their book, and that’s to be expected. It’s a big deal. But as ghostwriters, it’s our job to be upfront about best practices not only in how the book is written but how to approach the project.
As ghostwriters, we are paid to provide our expertise. The author can ultimately take or leave that advice, but it is the duty of the ghostwriter to be upfront and firm about what will help the book have maximum impact.
Provide Value
Ultimately, the author is making a significant investment in the ghostwriter. The ghostwriter isn’t just being paid to write. Yes, that’s important, but there’s so much more to it. Deep down, the author doesn’t just want the ghostwriter to say “yes” to everything. The author is paying to be guided through what would otherwise be a daunting process.
Anytime we do something for the first time, it’s a learning experience. A ghostwriter has been around the block. It’s our duty to bring that experience to the author and share our experiences to help collaborate with them on the best possible end product that the author still loves.
It’s our duty to let the author know the best way to proceed. It may not align with their original vision, but an open and transparent conversation can help the author make the best-informed decisions.
Better End Product
Open communication between the author and ghostwriter helps to create a better end product. As a ghostwriter, when you lean into your leadership role, you are helping to create a cohesive collaboration experience for both parties.
This helps ensure that the author and the ghostwriter are on the same page regarding content, execution, and intentions. As you can imagine, this ultimately enhances the quality of the end product.
Meandering along throughout the project will not do the project justice. As ghostwriters, we can lead the way to an awesome experience and phenomenal book.
If you are looking for someone to help lead you through the ghostwriting process who will both hype you up and keep it real, I’m your girl. Let’s chat during a free strategy session using the button below.
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