Good question.

Because let’s face it, most of us would like to feel we could write a book ourselves. Thing is, practically, are we the person best equipped to do so?

Think about it. Writing a book is incredibly time-consuming. It’s impossible for most of us to fit it into an already hectic schedule.

Then there’s that other element – knowing what we want to say, but not quite knowing how to get it down on paper. The thought of writing, and structuring, 80,000 words (the average length of an autobiography) can be overwhelming.

Also, maybe writing isn’t at the top of our skillset. A footballer might be able to score a ‘worldie’ from 30 yards but might struggle to describe that goal, and how it made them feel, in a thrilling and exhilarating way. That’s no criticism of the footballer – it’s just different people being good at different things. This ghostwriter, for instance, has never done anything other than wholly embarrass himself on a football pitch. Together, though, that footballer and I can produce something exceptional – a personality unwrapped, words that sing from the page. a story that shines.

The best ghost will feel like a friend

Importantly, those words come from a relationship of trust. The best ghost will feel like a friend. Talking to them will be relaxing and comfortable. It should be like two pals having a chat over a coffee.

Remember also that a successful ghost will have well-established connections within the industry. They talk to agents and publishers about ideas and projects all the time – a bridge to a side of the industry that can, understandably, feel complex to those on the outside. They also understand the kind of narratives that publishers are looking for, and can put a person’s story forward in the form of a proposal – a document delivering a detailed overview of what the book is about, including sample chapter, and chapter layout.

But ghostwriters don’t just work on books. They also write blogs for business and celebrity websites and social media accounts – written in that person’s voice (a key skill as we’ll see in my next blog) and helping drive an audience to that portal.

Finally, for now, I’d like to bury a common misconception about ghostwriting. Using a ghost is in no way a reflection on an individual’s authenticity or credibility. It is a wholly accepted way of telling that person’s story with polish and professionalism.

Authenticity and credibility is precisely the result – so long as you use the right ghost!

Talking of which, please do feel free to get in touch!