I recently decided it was time to start my own ghostwriting business. Why not? I have been ghostwriting for years and, unlike some of the tri-state area ghostwriting groups, I pride myself on not being “elitist”. I simply enjoy working with real people and real businesses to bring their thoughts and ideas to fruition. So, with that in mind, I am in the throws of launching Your Book, Your Way, a ghostwriting service for book proposals and manuscripts.

Roughly seven years ago I was asked to ghostwrite a book about retirement planning. The subject was new to me at the time, but I made it through. Then, within a year, I had another ghostwriting assignment with a brand new author for St. Martin’s Press. We did a proposal and she landed the highest advance for a new author in the history of St. Martin’s. Shortly thereafter, I wrote a short book for the folks at L’Oreal Cosmetics celebrating 20-years of success at one of their many factory locations. Thus began my ghostwriting career, which has since included working for a wide range of clients from Broadway producers to doctors to business owners.

I have found that as a ghostwriter, the key to success, in my humble opinion, is being able to capture the voice and personality of the individual and/or business. To do so, you need a knack for understanding people and the ability to communicate effectively, which includes listening. I studied Communications in college and received my Master’s Degree in Psychology, both of which, I believe, have helped me as a writer over these past 25 years.

This business, however, is not about me, but about the businesses and individuals who are seeking a ghostwriter to tell their stories and market themselves. Time and time again, books have proven to be a very effective marketing tool for impressing clients and garnering speaking engagements.

What to look for in a ghostwriter for your book, or book proposal:

• First, you want someone with whom you can communicate comfortably.

• Next you want to know that the ghostwriter has a successful track record in books, not speechwriting or some other area. Transparency is also a plus, even in ghostwriting. Look at credentials and visit amazon.com.

• You also want someone who does not believe in the cookie cutter approach. Not all projects should fit into a set formula.

So with that in mind, I’m hoping to fit these credentials.
I can’t help but feel energized about launching this business. It is important to me that I am able to connect with my clients and that they feel inspired and actually have some fun during the writing process. After all, it’s their book, their way.

Note: I am aligned with several other professional writers, a few top-notch editors, several literary agents, some traditional publishing houses and a few self-publishing houses if you should choose that route. I’m also a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA).