The latest in the my #AskAGhost series, which addresses common questions I get as a ghostwriter.
After comparing notes with some fellow ghosts about common questions we're asked by potential clients, I'm starting the #AskAGhost series to help provide answers. This week's query: "What if I want to include other voices in my book?" Many author partners I work with want to add contributions from other subject matter experts in their books. This can be a great way to boost credibility, add diversity, and provide valuable context.
Most of my author partners are pleasantly surprised to learn that I can take care of these contributions for them: They connect me with the expert in question; I set up a Zoom interview; and I then write up a contribution from that individual's perspective to include in the book (they obviously have a chance to review and revise their contribution before it goes to publication). This takes the load off my author partner's plate while also ensuring that participating in the project doesn't eat up the time of external contributors who have graciously agreed to be included.
That said, there are some things to keep in mind when including external voices:
Don't drown out your own voice: The author's voice should remain dominant throughout the narrative. While external voices can add value, they should never be more powerful than the author's voice. Adding too many third-party contributions can also interfere with the narrative flow and be jarring for the reader.
Use third parties to add, not reiterate: External voices should add something fresh to the narrative. You don't want them to simply parrot your own messages. Each contribution should have a purpose. What can their voice provide that yours cannot?
Keep costs in mind: Most ghostwriters charge extra for external interviews, as they add research and call time to the project. I usually try to determine the scope of external interviews at the very beginning of the project and lump that extra cost into the overall fee. Ask your ghostwriter up front about external interviews and related costs.
Ghostwriters, anything to add? I'd also love to hear suggestions for additional questions the ghost community can answer, as I plan to continue the #AskAGhost series going forward. Let me know in the comments!
Thank you for reading my blog! This is a space where I share personal thoughts — an opportunity for self-expression that has nothing to do with my professional writing. None of the thoughts or opinions expressed in this blog should be construed as anything but my own, nor should they be affiliated with any company or person I contract with or write for as a ghostwriter.
NOW that that's done... I'd love to hear from you about this blog post in the comments!
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