Ghostwriters

Ghostwriters are often hired to write books for people who either have ideas in their head that they do not have the time or skill to articulate, or professionals interested in increasing their authority who do not have the time or skill to get their ideas down.

You often see this frequently in the business world. The difference in speaking fees come down solely to the authority of the speaker. Ghostwriters can help business professionals command more time, money, and respect.

Ghostwriters work from outline, interview, or pre existing text. Regardless of the starting point, a ghostwriter does not receive credit for their words. It is a rare project indeed to see ghostwriters sharing a byline with their “author.” In this rare case, ghostwriters may be listed as a coauthor or editor of the finished product, or perhaps listed as an editor somewhere in the acknowledgements page. Some of the most in demand ghostwriters in the world have made such a name for themselves that they can command a byline such as, “as told to… (insert ghostwriter’s name).

Why are ghostwriters willing to forgo any opportunity for fame and fortune?

The answer is simple. A ghostwriter may have plenty of bylines of their own yet they write with enough speed that they can be professional writers on the side. Many ghostwriters bring in substantial fees, though this is changing now with new competition flooding in from India and China. Still, there are many instances when ghostwriting can easily clear anywhere form $25,000 all the way to $100,000 for a manuscript of exceptional quality.

Ghost writers with a great reputation are hired for the quality of their work, not their household name, and the best ghostwriters are able to run with their pick of the best projects. They also have the flexibility to tweak with various pay schedules. For example, some ghostwriters might opt to accept a lower fee in they are penning a book that they expect to be a runaway success. They could accept their flat fee to ghostwrite the book, on top of any royalties or residuals the book will generate over its shelf life.

This is far from common practice, however, and is mostly relegated to those few ghostwriters who have the most experience, best reputation, or highest caliber work. If you aren’t one of those souls who has to have their name on the byline, choosing to be a part of the legion of ghostwriters could be a lucrative career move.

I love writing and can produce more content than I could ever take credit for. Being one of the world’s ghostwriters for me makes perfect sense.

Email me today to discuss your next ghostwriting project. I look forward to hearing from you!