Ghostwriting and co-writing can often seem interchangeable even though they are two completely different approaches to writing. If you want to collaborate on a book but are unsure whether to work with a ghostwriter or a co-writer, this is the article for you!
Here are some of the main differences between the two:
- Purpose
Ghostwriting:
Ghostwriters are usually hired by clients who need help bringing their artistic vision to life due to various reasons such as time-crunches, niche-specific requirements or marketability. It is a popular approach to writing amongst celebrities who want to write memoirs, and thought leaders who want to publish their business story and expertise.Co-writing:
Cowriting is a highly collaborative process, where two or more authors join forces to work on a single project. This is especially popular among friends or partners who want to write a story together, writers who have complementary skills, and projects that require shared knowledge or perspectives. - Credit
Ghostwriting:
A ghostwriter is someone whose job is to tell your story in the tone and voice of your brand. This means that the credit goes to the person who hired the ghostwriter, instead of the ghostwriter themselves. This is ideal for authors who want full public ownership of the book but need help articulating their vision.Co-writing:
If you co-write a book, both writers are acknowledged and credited as authors. In this case, both writers contribute their own unique voice, ideas, and expertise to the work. - Creative Control
Ghostwriting:
Although ghostwriting is a collaborative process, the ghostwriter is obligated to stick to the client’s vision and goals for the project, meaning the client has sole creative control. While they may offer suggestions or shape the material for readability and marketability, they work within the creative boundaries set by the client.Co-writing:
Working with a co-author usually involves sharing ideas, tones, and narrative decisions, and while this can be energizing, it can also lead to some disagreements. It’s important that co-authors communicate well and are creatively aligned. - Ownership and Compensation
Ghostwriting:
A ghostwriter is usually paid a flat fee and does not get ownership rights or copyrights. The client retains 100% of the copyrights, intellectual property, and any royalties or revenue generated from the book.Co-writing:
Co-authors typically share both the work and the rewards. This includes ownership of the manuscript, shared rights, and a split of royalties and revenue. Co-writing agreements often detail how tasks, income, and rights will be divided.
The choice between ghostwriting and co-writing boils down to your artistic goals, creative preferences, and how much control you want over the process. If you want to tell a story and have full ownership of it, a ghostwriter might be the right fit. If you’re looking for a collaborator and are open to sharing the creative load and the rewards, co-writing could be the way to go.
If you have a story to tell with a clear creative vision, get in touch with us to find the perfect ghostwriter for you!
