Thinking of hiring a ghostwriter to help with your book? One thing you can’t afford to overlook is your potential ghostwriter’s personality.
Why Personality Matters
You know your ghostwriter needs writing skills. All writers do. But your ghostwriter’s personality can make your project a joy or a burden.
Don’t believe it? Consider this.
Writing a book takes a long time—months, a year, or longer. As Jane Friedman wrote, “Surely years, not weeks or months, is the norm” (for writing a book). So, you’re going to work with your ghostwriter for that long. Along the way, there is a lot of give and take. You’ll have meetings and interviews and give and receive feedback. If your ghostwriter’s personality isn’t a good fit for you, there will be problems. One of you will get frustrated, and the book won’t be its best. Even if the book is great, the experience will leave a sour taste in your mouth. Every time you look at your book, you’ll feel a hint of regret.
By working with a ghostwriter whose personality you appreciate, you reduce your risk for an unpleasant experience.
How to Learn a Ghostwriter’s Personality
How do you learn about a potential ghostwriter’s personality? Do some research online. Check a ghostwriter’s social media and website. Read reviews other people write about the ghostwriter.
If the writer passes the initial vibe test (or you can’t find enough information online to determine a writer’s personality), take the next step. Set up a consultation.
Many ghostwriters provide free consultations before agreeing and committing to a project. I certainly do.
Why?
Because I’m not the ideal ghostwriter for every book. So, while you’re interviewing me, I’m interviewing you also. I want to see if our personalities mesh. If there’s tension during our discovery call, I encourage you to find a different writer.
This may seem odd, but it’s best for everyone involved. After all, no ghostwriter is the best choice for every author. Some personalities simply don’t work well together. So, keep looking until you find the writer for you.
If you have a story that deserves to be told and you want to find out if I’m the right person to help you tell it, contact me today for a free consultation.