Ghostwriting

Ghostwriting presents the perfect route in to creating material – a book, a presentation, training course, perhaps even a speech – without the frustration and angst that comes when you try to put pen to paper yourself.

They say that everyone has at least one book in them. And why not? We each have a unique outlook on the world; our own story to tell; our own knowledge to impart.

Yet so few find their way into physical or digital form, and authoring a book – or any kind of ‘meaty’ content, remains a dream never realised.

It’s often hard to find the time to commit your thoughts to paper. You may be too close to the subject to explain it in layman’s terms. You might not know where to start, or indeed, stop, or how to make sense of, and structure, your ideas. It could be that your way of writing simply ends up being too flowery.

So what is ghostwriting?

A ghostwriter works with you to help you find the right words and create structure for your ideas, knowledge and stories, so that you can effectively engage with, inspire and inform your audience. Importantly, however, without losing the uniqueness of your voice and character.

When is ghostwriting useful?

Ghostwriting is an effective means of getting your message across through the following vehicles:

• Books and e-books
• Memoirs
• Presentations
• Speeches
• Training materials

Ghostwriting with Rebecca Erskine at Yellow Bird

Being clear on your objectives

Our starting point is a conversation to make sure we’re clear on your objectives.

Why do you want to commit your ideas to paper? Who’s your key audience? What action do you want them to take/ how do you want them to feel as a result of reading or hearing your words?

Agreeing a timetable

We agree a timetable and how we will work together, scheduling in regular discussion sessions to discuss key topics.

The process is an iterative one, and largely based on our conversations. You may have some material already committed to paper, but hearing you talk about your chosen subject, from the heart, will allow me to tune into, and ultimately write in, your authentic voice.

Determining structure and format

Tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, and tell them what you’ve told them. The format of the written content might be pretty straightforward but what means do you want to use to reinforce your key points? Exercises? Checklists? Illustrations? Together, we’ll look at the best format in which to deliver your messages, and at material that can add value to your written word.

PR support

Alongside ghostwriting your book or other material, we’ll look at how we can let the world know it’s out there and how it can be accessed, whether that be through a launch party, book signings, guest talks, local PR, inviting expert contributions for the book, or identifying other champions who can help get your work noticed.