You’ve got a book idea that’s been sitting in your mind for years but between work, life, and everything in between, it just hasn’t made it to the page. Or maybe you’ve tried writing, but the words don’t come out the way you want them to. Enter ghostwriters.

Hiring a ghostwriter is an increasingly popular choice for professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives who want to share their story or expertise but lack the time, writing skills, or energy to do it themselves. But is it the right move for you?

Here’s a look at the pros and cons of hiring a professional ghostwriter, so you can make an informed decision.

Pros:

• Saves time: Writing a book is a massive undertaking. From outlining themes and structuring content to weaving in anecdotes and ensuring the message connects with readers. It’s a time-consuming process. A ghostwriter streamlines this by doing the heavy lifting, turning your thoughts into a compelling manuscript.
• Brings industry insights: Most professional ghostwriters have a strong understanding of the publishing landscape. They know what works and what doesn’t, what will engage your target audience and what might fall flat. This expertise helps shape your book into something not just personal, but also marketable.
• Helps clarify your ideas: The interview process with a ghostwriter often helps clients think deeply about their ideas and thoughts. Articulating your ideas aloud can lead to breakthroughs, not just for the book, but for your brand as a whole.
• Niche-specific writing: If you’re an expert in a particular field, a ghostwriter can help translate your experience into accessible prose. Conversely, if you want to write about a topic you’re less familiar with, some ghostwriters specialize in specific industries and are skilled researchers. For example, for a historical fiction project, hiring a ghostwriter with a background in history can elevate the authenticity of the narrative. As long as expectations are clearly outlined upfront, they can handle the content creation with precision.

Cons:

• Significant investment: Hiring a professional ghostwriter doesn’t come cheap because you’re paying for their time, talent, and dedication. And the end goal isn’t just recouping these costs, it’s about how the book positions you. A well-written book can open doors to high-profile speaking engagements, better clients, media exposure, and other valuable opportunities that elevate your personal or professional brand.
• You might prefer writing it yourself: Some people genuinely want the experience of writing their own book. If that’s the case, a mentor or editor might be a better fit, offering you guidance without taking over the process entirely.
• Active collaboration: Hiring a ghostwriter doesn’t mean they can fully take over. They can’t read your mind (unless you’ve discovered telepathy). You’ll still need to show up with your perspective. From interviews and drafts to revisions and final approvals, your insights shape the book.
• Doesn’t guarantee publishing: Ghostwriters deliver a finished manuscript but publishing is a separate process. You’ll need to explore your publishing options once the manuscript is complete.

Hiring a ghostwriter can be a strategic decision for anyone who wants to write a book. When done right, it’s not just about getting words on a page, it’s about transforming your ideas into a professionally crafted book that amplifies your voice, builds credibility, and strengthens your personal brand.

If you have a story to tell, Bound can help you find the perfect ghostwriter tailored to your subject, genre, and style.Get started here.