I spend a lot of time talking about topics related to ghostwriting. But it’s been a while since I’ve actually covered the basics of ghostwriting. So to start the new year, we’re going to do a ghostwriting refresher!
Because let’s face it… I hadn’t even heard of ghostwriting before I started pursuing a career in writing.
We’re going to talk about what ghostwriting is, the general process, and what to expect. But we’re also going to talk about what it isn’t. Because that’s just as important. And lastly, we’ll cover why the heck anyone would want to be a ghostwriter, because that’s actually important for authors to know as they understand the process.
So let’s start from the beginning for anyone who may be new here.
What Is Ghostwriting?
When people ask me what I do for a living, my one-liner is this: As a ghostwriter, I help others bring their book to life by actually doing the writing for them. (Or some variation of that, but you get the idea.)
When an author hires a ghostwriter, the book is still theirs! It’s their ideas, their stories, their insights. I help bring it to life by putting the words on paper. But I also do more than that. I bring my expertise to the project. I guide the process, help with structure and approach, excavate their thought leadership, ask insightful questions, and more.
So how does the process work?
In a nutshell,
- We set your intentions for the book.
- We create an outline (which is flexible).
- We use the outline to drive interviews where the author shares stories and teachings on a given topic.
- I take care of the writing.
- They review the first draft.
- I incorporate the feedback into the second draft.
And voila! They’ve got their manuscript!
What Is Ghostwriting Not?
It’s also important to understand what ghostwriting is not. I’m not going to just go off on my own, write a book in an area related to the author’s expertise, and slap their name on it. The book is a collaboration. The author is sharing their stories, their experiences, their teachings, and their insights. That’s what shapes the book. I’m just the artist helping bring it all together.
While I do a lot of the heavy lifting, it’s important that the author understands that they will still be devoting significant energy to the project as well as we truly make it their own.
Ghostwriting is also not just a transcription of our conversations. A good ghostwriter adds far more value than that. We help polish and organize your thoughts. Add effective structure. Help the author to develop their literary voice. Challenge them and ask questions when needed. And more.
Lastly, we are writers, not publishers. I am not your girl for cover designs, book layouts, or planning your launch. Nor do you want me to be your girl for that…. Definitely not my areas of expertise.
Even when it comes to editing, most ghostwriters will still recommend that an editor go through your book with a fresh perspective on the manuscript. We are far too close to it for far too long to catch everything that we might need to before it gets printed.
No Credit? No Problem.
So many people think it’s bizarre that ghostwriters don’t get credit for the work they do. I get that. It’s an odd thing to wrap your head around.
The first thing I’ll point out (and I know this may seem obvious) is that we know what we’re signing up for. We don’t go into the book with a promise of recognition and get it stripped away. We know we’re just working behind the curtain.
Another important point that usually makes it click for people is: the pay. We get paid fairly for the work we do. We get paid a flat fee for the work as it’s being completed. We aren’t on commission. We’re not dependent on the author actually marketing their book. We get paid for the service we provide, just like every other service provider.
Lastly, authors always have the option to give credit to the ghostwriter if they’d like. But as ghostwriters, we don’t go in with expectations of that. Authors have the discretion to give credit whenever and however they see fit. I’ve even had a client go as far as naming me on the cover! (Shameless plug, check out Beyond Your Ownership, launching March 31, 2026!)
If this whole ghostwriting thing sounds intriguing to you, let’s chat! Book 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.