Exploring the world of ghostwriting can feel a bit like stepping into a puzzle. There are lots of mixed-up ideas about it. After talking to hundreds of people, I see that understanding ghostwriters isn’t always easy.

Now, you might laugh, but it seems like about 10% of the people who contact me believe that I write ghost stories. One person recently wrote, “I had my first ghost experience in a hotel last week.” I wrote back explaining who a ghostwriter is and what I do. Although I don’t specialize in ghost stories, I have a paranormal murder mystery idea in the works.

Since there seem to be a few misconceptions out there about my chosen vocation, I figured it was a good idea to clear up a few of the myths. By the end of this article, it is my hope that you will know what’s true and what’s not.

And in the end, you’ll be on your way to understanding ghostwriters.

 

Why hire a ghostwriter?

 

Before we talk about how to better understand ghostwriters, let’s understand why you might hire one.

First, if you want to write a book but find it hard to explain your ideas, a talented ghost can help make your thoughts clear and interesting for others to read. We can turn those rambling notes into a cohesive book that readers won’t want to put down.

Second, if you have writing skills but don’t have the time, it might work to hire a ghostwriter. You can be involved with the project as much as you like and it will still be your book, but you won’t have to put hundreds of hours into the project to get it done.

Lastly, if you’re an entrepreneur with a brand and an established written voice, it’s a good idea to consult with a ghostwriter to make sure you’re staying on track. Coming out with a book that doesn’t match your current brand would confuse your readers.

In other words, a good writer helps you say what you want to say in a way that everyone can understand and enjoy. That’s why finding the right writer is like finding a partner to help you make your ideas shine.

Now, let’s debunk a few of the most common myths.

Myth #1: Ghostwriters are just for celebrities

 

Not true!

What with the press around Prince Harry’s memoir Spare and Donald Trump’s business book The Art of the Deal, it isn’t a wonder that people think that ghostwriters are just for huge celebs. Well, I’ve been a ghostwriter for over twenty years and have never worked with a billionaire. Truth be told, I prefer to work for regular folks, people like you and me. My purpose is to help you complete your book and make your ideas shine.

Beyond the glitz of the celebrity world, ghostwriters are like writing companions available to elevate the stories of regular but successful people. Entrepreneurs, professionals, and individuals from various walks of life can collaborate with a ghostwriter to bring their unique stories to life. I just want to help people realize their dreams of writing a book.

 

Myth #2: Ghostwriters aren’t authors

 

Understanding ghostwriters begins with the knowledge that we aren’t always invisible. We are often authors with our own written voices. However, we can also adapt to different tones and styles, making every story unique. I’ve had male and female clients, some powerful CEOs and others just hardworking men and women. Truly, the artistry of ghostwriting lies in the writer’s capacity to become a chameleon of language, adapting to the nuances of different voices.

Whether I’m writing a personal memoir, a business book, or a novel, my job is to capture my client’s voice. I often work with them to help craft it from scratch. Together we want the final work to resonate with the intended audience while reflecting the distinct style and tone of the client.

 

Myth #3: Ghostwriters are copywriters in disguise

 

Ghostwriters and copywriters are different players in the writing game. Copywriters focus on selling stuff, while ghostwriters focus on books. Distinguishing the difference is essential to understanding ghostwriters.

 

Imagine you have a story to share, but you’re not quite sure how to put it into words. That’s where a ghostwriter comes in! If you’re not confident with words but have an awesome story or idea, a ghostwriter is your writing buddy. They bring your thoughts to life in a way that feels just like you are talking.

 

Now, let’s talk about copywriters. Imagine you have a fantastic product or service, and you want everyone to know how amazing it is. Copywriters as sales wizards. They use words to make people want to buy or try something.

 

Myth #4: Ghostwriters only write leadership books

 

Nope! That’s one I hear a lot.

I know it might seem odd, but most of my requests are for memoirs. Many people are eager to share their life stories. I have also ghostwritten quite a few novels over the last twenty years. This often surprises people.

Yes, I can write a leadership book. I can write a how-to text to teach others. However, I am not limited to these genres.

Myth #5: Ghostwriters never receive credit 

 

Ghostwriters aren’t always hidden. Sometimes, they get a little nod in the acknowledgments or even share the author’s spotlight. It depends on the writing rules between them and their partner.

The dynamics of credit and acknowledgment in ghostwriting collaborations are nuanced. While some projects may keep the ghostwriter’s contribution discreet, others involve a more visible recognition.

Over the last 22 years, I’ve written over 40 books. Most clients require a strong NDA and I never share my participation of those titles with anyone. However, about a quarter of my clients have been very generous and either gave me a cover credit or a mention in the acknowledgement section of their book. A few mentioned my website, which was a lovely surprise.

Myth #6: Anyone can be a ghostwriter

 

While that might seem true, given that there are hundreds of people claiming to a ghostwriter on the internet, it really isn’t true. You need to vet each writer carefully.

Before you can become a ghostwriter, you really need to also be an author with a few books under your belt. It’s been said that in order to be an expert in a field you need to roll up your sleeves and put in 10,000 hours. That seems about right.

Being a professional writer doesn’t happen overnight. When researching a ghostwriter, make sure they have valid writing experience before you hire them. For instance, if they have never written a book, you need to know that they will be cutting their teeth with your project. The chances that they’ll complete your book are slim.

One of the biggest assets a ghostwriter brings to the table is knowing how to structure a book. The outline for a novel or memoir is a complicated and technical piece. There are a lot of rules to follow. Someone inexperienced with this area might set out writing their book without this knowledge. When that happens, they’ll hit a brick wall quickly.

 

Myth #7: Ghostwriting is not ethical

 

Yup, I hear that once in a while. Despite the fact that ghostwriting is very commonplace, some people feel there is a line being crossed. They aren’t comfortable with it.

Let’s say you have a friend who’s not so great with words, but they have an amazing story to tell. Now, they have a friend (a ghostwriter) who can help them share that story. The ghostwriter get paid to use their writing powers to turn your friend’s thoughts into a fantastic book. Otherwise, that book will never get written, and your friend’s ideas will never be shared. That sounds like a win win to me.

Now you might be thinking, “Hey, it’s not fair! The person who has the story idea should be the one writing it.” I can see that point of view.

Here’s the thing: in the world of ghostwriting, everyone agrees on the rules. It’s like playing a board game where everyone knows what’s happening. The person with the story says, “I need help telling this,” and the ghostwriter jumps in. It’s teamwork.

As a professional ghost, I am always thrilled to know that I have been able to help someone finish their book. I don’t like the idea that they are kept up at night, knowing they have something to say, but just can’t find the words.

Note: If you still feel there is something unethical about ghostwriting, consider hiring a writing coach. I have several clients who are working on their first drafts with my guidance. The price tag is a lot lower and in the end, they’ll know they wrote the book themselves.

Conclusion

 

So, after all this talk about understanding ghostwriters, here’s the simple scoop. Ghostwriters are like writing pals who help everyone, famous or not, tell their stories. They’re not secret agents; they’re just talented writers lending a hand.

No matter who you are, you have a right to see your book in print. Ghostwriters make sure everyone’s voice gets a chance to shine.