3 Qualities You Should Look for When Hiring a Ghostwriter for Your Book
- Steve Gamel
- 7 minutes ago
- 3 min read
You've decided to write a book, but you aren't afraid to admit that you're going to need a lot of help along the way. So, you start looking into hiring a ghostwriter. Great decision, by the way! Having the right ghostwriter in your corner is one of the best ways to get your scattered ideas into a polished form faster than you might do alone.
Your book can inspire, educate, and connect people—but you may not know where or how to start, or what steps lie ahead.
The good news is that there are plenty of ghostwriters to choose from.
But what should you look for to ensure you choose a ghostwriter who truly fits your vision and needs?
Many might say you should choose someone who writes well and has years of experience.
That’s true.
They may also suggest someone who is detail-oriented and has a keen eye for creativity. Again ... all true! But I challenge you to also look for these three qualities:
Chemistry and alignment
Cheerleader mindset
A heart for storytelling
Hiring a Ghostwriter: Chemistry and Alignment
Having chemistry with your ghostwriter and being on the same page about your book journey matters just as much as their skill level. I mean, who wants to work with someone they can't connect with—or God forbid, don't like?
Connection and alignment set the tone for everything that follows. When you click with your ghostwriter, collaboration feels effortless—and the writing shines because of it.
Look for someone who:
Is easy to get along with
Adds positive energy and enthusiasm
Listens more than they talk
Communicates clearly
Takes the time to learn your voice and quirks
Wants to work collaboratively with you
Respects your goals, preferences, and writing boundaries
Is genuinely interested in knowing your story
Shares your vision for the finished work
Hiring a Ghostwriter: Cheerleader Mindset
Writing a book can be hard. Finishing it is even more of a challenge, as the process alone can stir up doubt, hesitation, and even imposter syndrome. I believe a big part of a ghostwriter's job is to be the cheerleader you need to keep pushing forward—someone who can lift you up emotionally, and push you gently past self-doubt.
They don’t just meet deadlines—they keep you:
Motivated to reach the finish line
Excited about the possibilities of a finished book
Confident that your story deserves to be told
Hiring a Ghostwriter: A Heart for Storytelling
Storytelling should be at the heart of every book project. It doesn't matter if you're writing fiction, an autobiography, a business book, a memoir, poetry, or anything else. Storytelling also takes time, creativity, and patience to uncover the most meaningful details and show how they align with the message behind your book.
The right ghostwriter has a deep appreciation for narrative flow, emotional resonance, and authenticity. They’ll help you uncover the “why” behind your message and shape it into something that resonates with readers on a personal level. After all ...
Stories connect us: Stories engage emotions and are more memorable than facts.
Stories humanize your book: Storytelling makes you approachable and relatable.
Stories make you different: A compelling story gives your audience a unique context.
Stories add value: Improve storytelling, and you'll suddenly have a stockpile of authentic stories that deepen reader loyalty and elevate your book's message.
Stories create continuity: Quality storytelling helps link the past, present, and future.
A ghostwriter understands that good books don’t just inform or entertain; they move people.
Your Ghostwriter Is Right Here at Edit This!
Transform your literary vision into a book you’re proud of and that you can celebrate for a lifetime. Edit This® is a one-stop shop for all your writing and editing needs, including ghostwriting and editing services. We have passionately collaborated on several book projects that have already been published or are currently in development.
Ready to get started? Give Edit This a call today!
We'd be honored to help bring your story to life.
Thanks for reading!
STEVE GAMEL is the President & Owner of Edit This®, a writing and editing services company in Denton, TX. He is also the author of Write Like You Mean It: Mastering Your Passion For The Written Word. Steve handles anything involving the written word. Give him a call today to help give your business a clear voice.