One of the most important skills a ghostwriter can have: the ability to curate comprehensive interviews. I bet you thought I was going to say writing, didn’t you? While that’s arguably the most important skill for a ghostwriter, facilitating amazing interviews is definitely up there!
So after outlining comes the interview portion of the process. This is where the magic happens. This is what sets a human apart from AI. And this is why I don’t worry about AI “taking my job”.
During the interview process, the author gets the opportunity to authentically share their stories, their knowledge, their insights, and their passion for the topics and theme at hand. They get to share in a way that feels good to them with someone who is actively listening and digging deeper with thoughtful questions. A ghostwriter can help them see the power of their stories and excavate additional insights.
The interviews are the most important part of bringing the writing to life. The ghostwriter is going off of what the author shares in the interviews, so it’s crucial to have interviews that get comprehensive, engaging, and detailed information. And the goal is that the interviews are a win-win. The ghostwriter gets the information they need. The author is able to share about a topic they love and often uncover new perspectives and insights along the way.
Let’s dive more into some of the elements of a successful interview process.
Structure of the Interview
Typically, I schedule 90-minute interview blocks with authors. While it’s a large chunk of time, it allows the author to go in-depth on the topic at hand and not feel rushed over important details or relevant sparks of inspiration. This can be adjusted depending on the author, but setting up a time that allows for space and calm sets a strong foundation for the interview.
The rest of the “structure” is catered to the preferences of the author. Some authors lean towards more of a “monologue” style. If this is the case, I’ll essentially ask them to teach me like they’re giving a presentation. After they get through their teaching, I’ll ask follow-up questions.
Some authors prefer more of a conversational style. In this setting, I actively engage in responding to what they’re saying. I try to create an ease like we’re sitting on a living room couch to prompt the author into sharing in a way that feels authentic to them.
In either case, it’s important that the ghostwriter is fully present in these conversations. Being fully present is necessary for two reasons. First, it’s important in helping the author to share. The author will share deeper knowledge and more vulnerable stories if the ghostwriter is holding space for that. Furthermore, the ghostwriter can ask better follow-up questions when they’re fully engaged and present.
Interviews can and should include moments of vulnerability. These add humanity and relatability to each book. Formatting the interviews in a way that allows the author to feel comfortable to do this sets a strong foundation for success.
Flexibility and Creativity
Just like the outline is flexible, the interviews can be flexible as well. Ahead of each interview, I’ll send an email to the author reminding them of the topics that we plan to cover so they can gather their thoughts and mentally prepare.
But just because the outline calls for a certain topic doesn’t mean that we are relegated to talk about that and only that. Sometimes the author will remember a story or insight as they’re teaching on the topic. It’s important that they know they can follow that thread because sometimes that’s where we find the deepest wisdom. Writing a book is a cathartic process, and it’s natural for the author to have moments of inspiration, insight, remembering, and perspective shifts. It’s important to allow for those as well.
That being said, there’s a balance to be kept here as well. We don’t want the interviews to go on constant tangents that will detract from the focus of the book or draw out the process, which can add additional layers of complexity as it relates to content. But tangents that tie into the theme, those can be pure gold.
Cadence
I like to schedule clients on a regular cadence for interviews. This helps to ensure that we stay on track, and it keeps everyone accountable. I often encourage the author to schedule these weekly, but this can definitely be catered to the author’s needs.
Some authors may want to schedule bi-weekly, some may be on a tighter timeline where we do interviews more frequently than weekly. It depends on the author’s goals and availability.
However, what we don’t want are sporadic interviews with long periods of time between the interviews. This can take both the author and the ghostwriter out of their flow. It can cause the need to retrace steps and incongruency in content.
When choosing a ghostwriter, it’s important to partner with someone who is present and curious but also organized and accountable. These elements are the fuel for success in the interview process.
Want to learn more about what it’s like to work with a ghostwriter? Let’s chat in a free strategy session!
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