Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Global Communications • Recognition Programs • Leadership Communications

Ghost Writing

Term from Corporate Communications industry explained for recruiters

Ghost writing is when a professional writer creates content that will be published under someone else's name. This is common in corporate settings where executives need speeches, articles, or books written but don't have the time or writing expertise to create them themselves. Ghost writers work behind the scenes to capture the voice, ideas, and message of the person they're writing for, making it sound authentic and professional. This is similar to being a speechwriter or content developer, but the key difference is that ghost writers typically remain anonymous while the client gets the public credit for the work.

Examples in Resumes

Served as Ghost Writer for C-level executives, producing thought leadership articles and industry presentations

Ghost wrote over 50 blog posts and LinkedIn articles for company leadership

Primary Ghost Writer and Ghostwriter for CEO's bestselling business book and weekly internal communications

Typical job title: "Ghost Writers"

Also try searching for:

Content Writer Executive Writer Professional Writer Corporate Communications Writer Speechwriter Executive Communications Specialist Corporate Writer

Where to Find Ghost Writers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Networking

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage multiple ghost writing projects with different voice requirements?

Expected Answer: Should explain their system for tracking and switching between different client voices, maintaining style guides, and managing multiple deadlines while keeping quality consistent.

Q: Tell me about a challenging ghost writing situation and how you resolved it.

Expected Answer: Should discuss handling sensitive situations like disagreements with clients over content, maintaining confidentiality, or managing tight deadlines while preserving quality.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you capture and maintain a client's voice in your writing?

Expected Answer: Should describe their process for studying client's speaking style, previous writings, and creating voice guidelines, plus methods for consistency checks.

Q: What is your research process when ghost writing about unfamiliar topics?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they gather information, conduct interviews, verify facts, and translate complex topics into clear writing.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What do you think are the most important qualities of a ghost writer?

Expected Answer: Should mention confidentiality, ability to adapt writing style, good interviewing skills, and meeting deadlines while maintaining quality.

Q: How do you handle feedback and revisions from clients?

Expected Answer: Should discuss their approach to receiving criticism professionally, implementing changes efficiently, and maintaining good client relationships.