The field of ghostwriting is an ancient profession with origins dating back nearly three thousand years, if scholarly theories about the works of Homer, are correct. Even Shakespeare is said to have employed ghostwriters according to some scholars.

Although some may feel that it is “cheating” to hire a ghostwriter, the fact is that not everyone writes well. If you are an expert in your field or have an important story to tell but you don’t have the skills to tell it, you need not carry any shame in hiring a ghostwriter. More on the ethics of ghostwriting can be found here.

These days, ghostwriters are frequently hired by celebrities, politicians, athletes, professionals, health experts and entrepreneurs. Ghostwriters author autobiographies, cookbooks, how-to books and many other genres of literature.

The reasons a client may hire a ghostwriter are varied. Here are some of them;

• To establish credibility in an industry

• To attract new customers

• To grow brand presence and trust in a broader market

• To document a life for children and grandchildren

• To create a positive impact on the world

The process of ghostwriting may look different from ghostwriter to to ghostwriter. TSG’s ghostwriting process is explained in more detail here. In general, a ghostwriter receives the raw material from the client, typically via interviews and/or from notes provided by the client. A ghostwriter may also need to do a good deal of research to verify historical facts and and other important details.

While it may seem economical to hire a ghostwriter “on the cheap,” if the quality of the final manuscript is poor, the book may do more harm than good for a client’s brand image. TSG’s rates can be found here. While some ghostwriters require payment upfront, TSG requires a partial payment upfront as an advance or retainer and then utilizes a “milestone” approach, which breaks down the fees and project into smaller, bite size pieces.

Once the manuscript is completed and the first draft is signed off by the client, it goes through at least a couple of drafts before it is ready for editing. If the ghostwriter has done his or her work, the completed manuscript will capture the distinct style and voice of the client.

Collaborating with a ghostwriter can be an exciting and enriching experience and has the potential open the doors and significantly enhance brand recognition and trust. If you have been considering hiring a ghostwriter, click here to connect with The Story Garden team.

Step 1: Interview/Research

Collection. TSG staff gather information from the client and conduct their own research as necessary.

Step 2: Outline

TSG provides an outline and first chapter for client approval

Step 3: Writing

TSG completes manuscript with feedback from you. Once you approve, it is handed to an in-house editor.

Step 4: Delivery

TSG delivers to the client the edited, proofread and polished manuscript.