Searching...
English
EnglishEnglish
EspañolSpanish
简体中文Chinese
FrançaisFrench
DeutschGerman
日本語Japanese
PortuguêsPortuguese
ItalianoItalian
한국어Korean
РусскийRussian
NederlandsDutch
العربيةArabic
PolskiPolish
हिन्दीHindi
Tiếng ViệtVietnamese
SvenskaSwedish
ΕλληνικάGreek
TürkçeTurkish
ไทยThai
ČeštinaCzech
RomânăRomanian
MagyarHungarian
УкраїнськаUkrainian
Bahasa IndonesiaIndonesian
DanskDanish
SuomiFinnish
БългарскиBulgarian
עבריתHebrew
NorskNorwegian
HrvatskiCroatian
CatalàCatalan
SlovenčinaSlovak
LietuviųLithuanian
SlovenščinaSlovenian
СрпскиSerbian
EestiEstonian
LatviešuLatvian
فارسیPersian
മലയാളംMalayalam
தமிழ்Tamil
اردوUrdu
The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting

The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting

How To Make $10,000+ Per Month Writing For Other People Online
by Nicolas Cole 2023 264 pages
4.29
100+ ratings
Listen
Try Full Access for 7 Days
Unlock listening & more!
Continue

Key Takeaways

1. Ghostwriting: A Lucrative and Ethical Career Path

When you practice the definitive attributes of other people’s voices, you can more consciously create your own.

Demystifying ghostwriting. Ghostwriting is often perceived as deceptive, but it's a legitimate and ethical profession. From presidential speeches to celebrity memoirs, ghostwriters play a crucial role in shaping narratives and sharing valuable insights. The key is transparency and authenticity in capturing the client's voice.

Addressing ethical concerns. The author challenges the notion that ghostwriting is inherently deceptive, arguing that it's a collaborative process where the client ultimately approves the final product. It's about "renting" your pen, not selling your soul. The ghostwriter channels the client's ideas and expertise, ensuring their authentic voice is heard.

Ghostwriting as a career. Ghostwriting offers a profitable and fulfilling career path for writers. It provides opportunities to learn from experts, practice different writing styles, and build a valuable network. It's a goldmine for those willing to dive in and master the craft.

2. Freelance vs. Ghostwriting: Defining Your Value

Most smart people who actually have something valuable to say, don’t have the time to write. And most people who have the time to write, don’t have something valuable to say.

The value proposition. The core difference lies in who you're writing for: freelance writers serve brands, while ghostwriters serve individuals. Smart people with valuable knowledge often lack the time to write, while those with ample time may lack the expertise. Ghostwriting bridges this gap.

Beyond freelance writing. The term "freelance writer" often conjures images of overworked, underpaid individuals. "Ghostwriter," on the other hand, implies a specialist with a unique skill set, commanding premium rates. It's about positioning yourself as an expert, not a commodity.

Specialization is key. Specializing in a specific type of ghostwriting, such as thought leadership articles for startup founders, allows you to charge more and work less. It's about becoming a highly valuable specialist, not a generalist.

3. The Multifaceted Benefits of Ghostwriting

Ghostwriting is a life hack for getting paid to learn from experts in their fields.

Beyond monetary compensation. Ghostwriting offers a wealth of benefits beyond just a paycheck. It's a unique opportunity to learn from industry leaders, practice your craft, build a valuable network, and gain early insights into emerging trends.

Learning and growth. Ghostwriting provides a platform to learn from experts in various fields, gaining knowledge and insights that would otherwise be inaccessible. It's like getting paid for consulting while honing your writing skills.

Building a network. Ghostwriting allows you to connect with high-profile individuals, building a network that can open doors to future opportunities. These relationships can be invaluable for career advancement and personal growth.

4. Avoiding Common Ghostwriting Pitfalls

The best ghostwriters are writers themselves.

Practice what you preach. Aspiring ghostwriters often struggle because they don't practice their craft on themselves first. Building a personal writing habit, audience, and portfolio is crucial for developing the skills and credibility needed to succeed.

The golden rule. Whatever type of ghostwriting you're selling, actively practice and create those same assets for yourself. If you're selling "ghostwriting someone's Twitter account," prove you can build an audience on Twitter.

Specialization is key. Avoid trying to write "anything" for "anyone." This dilutes your value and makes it harder to land clients. Instead, focus on solving one specific problem for one specific person in one specific way.

5. Niching Down: Specialization for Success

Clients are not buying your ability to “write words.” They are buying your ability to write the RIGHT words—which means they are buying your knowledge within a niche, and your expertise creating a specific asset.

The power of specificity. Clients aren't just looking for someone who can write; they're looking for someone who understands their industry and can articulate their ideas effectively. Specializing in a niche allows you to become an expert and command premium rates.

Solving a specific problem. All differentiation, pricing power, and efficiency come from solving one specific problem for one specific person in one specific way. This targeted approach makes it easier to attract clients and deliver exceptional results.

Building a personal category. Create a niche for yourself by focusing on a specific topic or industry. Share your expertise through content creation, demonstrating your knowledge and attracting the right clients.

6. Mastering the Art of Voice: The 5 Archetypes

The only real difference between writing for yourself, and writing for yourself “for someone else” (ghostwriting) is voice.

Voice is key. The primary difference between writing for yourself and ghostwriting is adapting to the client's unique voice. This involves understanding their personality, style, and communication preferences.

The 5 archetypes. The author identifies five common client archetypes:

  • The Storyteller: Loves sharing anecdotes and personal experiences.
  • The Opinionator: Expresses strong convictions and beliefs.
  • The Fact Presenter: Relies on data and evidence to support their claims.
  • The Frameworker: Organizes information into structured systems and processes.
  • The F-Bomber: Uses abrasive language and a provocative tone.

Adapting your style. By recognizing these archetypes, you can tailor your writing to match the client's preferred voice, ensuring authenticity and satisfaction. It's about capturing their essence, not simply transcribing their words.

7. The Power of Close Listening and Strategic Questioning

The best ghostwriters are writers themselves.

Beyond writing skills. Ghostwriting involves more than just writing; it requires strong interviewing and editing skills. The ability to listen attentively, ask insightful questions, and distill complex ideas is crucial for success.

Close listening. "Close listening" is a meditative practice of being fully present and attuned to the client's words, tone, and unspoken cues. This allows you to capture their authentic voice and understand their underlying message.

Strategic questioning. Asking the right questions is essential for extracting valuable insights and shaping the content. Focus on open-ended questions that encourage the client to share their stories, opinions, and expertise.

8. Managing Client Feedback with Grace and Expertise

It’s my responsibility to tell the client what I recommend, but ultimately it’s their decision.

Feedback is inevitable. Client feedback is an integral part of the ghostwriting process. It's important to approach feedback with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and improve.

Isolate the feedback. Before making any changes, take the time to understand the client's concerns and isolate the specific areas that need improvement. Ask clarifying questions and seek specific examples.

The "As Long As It Takes To Get It Right" Policy. This policy disarms clients during the sales process, but it is even more effective during the first month or two of working together because they don’t feel like they only have one or two opportunities to get the piece to “sound like them.”

9. Protecting Intellectual Property in Ghostwriting

Every writer should master the art of ghostwriting.

Ethical considerations. Ghostwriting involves navigating complex issues of intellectual property. It's crucial to respect the client's ownership of their ideas and avoid plagiarism or unauthorized use of their content.

Originality is key. While it's tempting to reuse successful ideas or frameworks, avoid directly copying or paraphrasing content from other clients. Each project should be unique and tailored to the client's specific needs and voice.

Curate, don't create. If you're struggling to generate original ideas, focus on curating existing content and giving credit to the original sources. This allows you to provide valuable insights without infringing on anyone's intellectual property.

10. Pricing Premium Ghostwriting Services

The best ghostwriters are writers themselves.

Value-based pricing. The key to charging premium rates is to focus on the value you provide, not just the time you spend. Frame your services as an investment in the client's brand, reputation, and business goals.

The 5 levels of charging more:

  • Per Word
  • Per Hour
  • Per Month
  • Per Asset (and Outcome)
  • Per Outcome

The root fear of pricing. The biggest obstacle to charging premium rates is often internal. Overcoming limiting beliefs and developing a strong sense of self-worth is crucial for commanding higher fees.

11. Scaling Your Ghostwriting Business: The 3 Levers

You aren’t ghostwriting. You’re writing for yourself, for someone else.

The 3 levers of growth. As a 1-person business, you have three primary levers to grow your income: time, units, and cost. Maximizing efficiency, profitability, and specialization is key to scaling your business.

The 10% time tax. Dedicate 10% of your time to working "on" your business, not just "in" it. This involves investing in your skills, streamlining processes, and exploring new opportunities.

Simplicity is velocity. Focus on solving one specific problem for one specific person in one specific way. This allows you to create efficiencies, reduce switching costs, and maximize your earning potential.

12. Client Acquisition: Finding and Landing High-Ticket Deals

Every writer should master the art of ghostwriting.

Beyond writing skills. Landing high-ticket clients requires more than just writing skills; it requires sales and marketing expertise. Building a strong online presence, networking strategically, and mastering the art of cold outreach are essential for success.

Value-first outreach. Approach potential clients with a genuine desire to help them solve their problems. Offer valuable insights and demonstrate your expertise before asking for anything in return.

The power of referrals. Word-of-mouth referrals are a powerful source of new clients. Cultivate strong relationships with your existing clients and encourage them to spread the word about your services.

Last updated:

FAQ

What's "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting" about?

  • Overview: "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting" by Nicolas Cole is a comprehensive guide on how to make a lucrative living as a ghostwriter, specifically targeting the online market.
  • Focus: The book provides insights into both the artistic and business aspects of ghostwriting, offering strategies to earn $10,000+ per month.
  • Structure: It is divided into three main parts: Ghostwriting as a Career, The Art of Ghostwriting, and The Business of Ghostwriting, each addressing different facets of the profession.
  • Goal: The aim is to equip writers with the skills and knowledge to transition from struggling freelancers to successful ghostwriters with high-ticket clients.

Why should I read "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting"?

  • Career Transition: If you're a writer looking to transition into a more profitable career, this book offers a clear roadmap.
  • Comprehensive Guide: It covers everything from finding clients to mastering the craft of ghostwriting, making it a one-stop resource.
  • Real-World Examples: The book is filled with real-life examples and anecdotes from the author's own successful career, providing practical insights.
  • Actionable Advice: It offers actionable steps and strategies that can be implemented immediately to start earning more as a ghostwriter.

What are the key takeaways of "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting"?

  • Niche Specialization: Specializing in a niche can significantly increase your value and pricing power as a ghostwriter.
  • Client Relationships: Building strong relationships with clients is crucial for long-term success and referrals.
  • Pricing Strategy: Understanding how to price your services effectively is key to maximizing your earnings.
  • Skill Development: Continuous improvement in both writing and business skills is essential for scaling your ghostwriting career.

How does Nicolas Cole define ghostwriting in "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting"?

  • Definition: Ghostwriting is described as writing for someone else, capturing their voice and ideas while remaining anonymous.
  • Misconceptions: The book addresses common myths, such as ghostwriting being deceptive or inauthentic, and clarifies these misconceptions.
  • Value Proposition: Ghostwriting is positioned as a highly valuable service that allows clients to share their expertise without the time commitment of writing.
  • Skill Set: It requires a unique set of skills, including close listening, adaptability, and the ability to capture another person's voice.

What are the main myths about ghostwriting according to Nicolas Cole?

  • Deceptive Practice: One myth is that ghostwriting is deceptive, but the book argues that it's a collaborative process where the client approves the content.
  • Inauthentic Work: Another myth is that ghostwriting is inauthentic, yet the book explains that authenticity is maintained as the client has the final say.
  • Cheating: Some believe ghostwriting is cheating, but the book compares it to hiring specialists in other fields, like graphic design or social media management.
  • Low Quality: There's a misconception that ghostwritten work is of lower quality, but the book emphasizes that ghostwriters often enhance the client's ideas.

How does Nicolas Cole suggest finding clients in "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting"?

  • Value-First Approach: The book recommends reaching out to potential clients by offering value first, such as free advice or a sample of your work.
  • Networking: Building a network through word-of-mouth and referrals is crucial for finding high-ticket clients.
  • Content Creation: Writing about your niche can attract clients who are interested in your expertise and style.
  • Cold Outreach: Directly contacting potential clients with personalized messages can be effective, especially if you demonstrate an understanding of their needs.

What is the "1 Specific Problem, 1 Specific Person, 1 Specific Way" framework in "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting"?

  • Framework Overview: This framework is about niching down to solve one specific problem for one specific type of client in one specific way.
  • Specialization Benefits: Specializing allows you to become an expert in a particular area, increasing your value and pricing power.
  • Client Attraction: It makes it easier for clients to find you and understand the unique value you offer.
  • Efficiency: By focusing on a specific niche, you can create efficiencies in your work process, allowing you to serve more clients effectively.

How does Nicolas Cole recommend pricing your services in "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting"?

  • Value-Based Pricing: The book suggests pricing based on the value you provide rather than the time or effort involved.
  • Outcome Focus: Clients are more willing to pay for outcomes, such as increased visibility or authority, rather than just words on a page.
  • Pricing Tiers: Offering different pricing tiers can help cater to various client budgets while maximizing your earnings.
  • Regular Increases: Regularly reviewing and increasing your prices as your skills and demand grow is essential for scaling your business.

What are the "5 Archetypes Of Client Voices" in "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting"?

  • Storyteller: Clients who prefer to convey their message through stories and anecdotes.
  • Opinionator: Clients who have strong opinions and want their content to reflect their viewpoints.
  • Fact Presenter: Clients who rely on data and facts to support their message.
  • Frameworker: Clients who prefer structured content with clear frameworks and steps.
  • F-Bomber: Clients who use a more casual, sometimes abrasive tone, often with strong language.

What is the "Ultimate Ghostwriting Voice" according to Nicolas Cole?

  • Combination Approach: The Ultimate Ghostwriting Voice combines elements from all five archetypes to create a versatile and appealing style.
  • Client Satisfaction: This approach aims to deliver a voice that any client would be proud to put their name on.
  • Flexibility: It allows the ghostwriter to adapt to different client needs while maintaining a high standard of quality.
  • First Draft Excellence: The goal is to deliver a 95/100 first draft, minimizing revisions and maximizing client satisfaction.

How does Nicolas Cole suggest managing client feedback in "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting"?

  • Stay Calm: Avoid reacting emotionally to feedback and take time to process it before responding.
  • Clarify Feedback: Isolate specific feedback points to understand exactly what the client wants changed.
  • Minimal Adjustments: Make as few changes as possible to address the feedback, focusing on the most critical points.
  • Communicate Changes: Leave comments explaining why you made certain changes to help clients understand your thought process.

What are the best quotes from "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting" and what do they mean?

  • "He or she who frames the problem owns the solution." This quote emphasizes the importance of defining the client's problem clearly to position yourself as the best solution.
  • "The highest-paid ghostwriters don’t get paid to write. They get paid to think." This highlights the value of strategic thinking and problem-solving in ghostwriting, beyond just writing skills.
  • "Simplicity is velocity." This quote underscores the power of focusing on a specific niche to accelerate your career and business growth.
  • "You aren’t selling ‘ghostwriting services.’ You are selling the solution to 1 Specific Problem, for 1 Specific Type Of Person, in 1 Specific Way." This reinforces the importance of specialization and value-based selling in ghostwriting.

Review Summary

4.29 out of 5
Average of 100+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting receives mostly positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.29 out of 5. Many readers praise the book for its practical advice on starting a ghostwriting career and building a successful business. They highlight the author's insights, step-by-step guidance, and valuable frameworks for pricing, client acquisition, and niche selection. Some readers found the book applicable to other entrepreneurial pursuits as well. However, a few negative reviews criticize the book for lacking new information and being disappointing. Overall, most readers consider it a helpful resource for aspiring ghostwriters and solopreneurs.

Your rating:
4.59
28 ratings

About the Author

Nicolas Cole is an accomplished writer and entrepreneur known for his expertise in ghostwriting and digital content creation. He has authored multiple books on writing and business, including "The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting" and "19 Tiny Habits That Lead to Huge Results." Cole is recognized for his practical approach to teaching writing and entrepreneurship, drawing from his own experiences in the industry. He also offers online courses and coaching, which have been praised by many of his readers for their transformative impact. Cole's work focuses on demystifying the ghostwriting profession and providing actionable advice for those looking to build successful careers in writing and digital entrepreneurship.

Download PDF

To save this The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting summary for later, download the free PDF. You can print it out, or read offline at your convenience.
Download PDF
File size: 0.21 MB     Pages: 14

Download EPUB

To read this The Art & Business Of Ghostwriting summary on your e-reader device or app, download the free EPUB. The .epub digital book format is ideal for reading ebooks on phones, tablets, and e-readers.
Download EPUB
File size: 2.95 MB     Pages: 11
Listen to Summary
0:00
-0:00
1x
Dan
Andrew
Michelle
Lauren
Select Speed
1.0×
+
200 words per minute
Home
Library
Get App
Create a free account to unlock:
Requests: Request new book summaries
Bookmarks: Save your favorite books
History: Revisit books later
Recommendations: Personalized for you
Ratings: Rate books & see your ratings
100,000+ readers
Try Full Access for 7 Days
Listen, bookmark, and more
Compare Features Free Pro
📖 Read Summaries
All summaries are free to read in 40 languages
🎧 Listen to Summaries
Listen to unlimited summaries in 40 languages
❤️ Unlimited Bookmarks
Free users are limited to 10
📜 Unlimited History
Free users are limited to 10
Risk-Free Timeline
Today: Get Instant Access
Listen to full summaries of 73,530 books. That's 12,000+ hours of audio!
Day 4: Trial Reminder
We'll send you a notification that your trial is ending soon.
Day 7: Your subscription begins
You'll be charged on May 17,
cancel anytime before.
Consume 2.8x More Books
2.8x more books Listening Reading
Our users love us
100,000+ readers
"...I can 10x the number of books I can read..."
"...exceptionally accurate, engaging, and beautifully presented..."
"...better than any amazon review when I'm making a book-buying decision..."
Save 62%
Yearly
$119.88 $44.99/year
$3.75/mo
Monthly
$9.99/mo
Try Free & Unlock
7 days free, then $44.99/year. Cancel anytime.
Scanner
Find a barcode to scan

Settings
General
Widget
Loading...