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What do these bestselling business books have in common? Two things: they were all written by world-famous CEOs—and every single one was ghostwritten.

Surprised? You shouldn’t be.

The Executive–Ghostwriter Pipeline

According to Ghostwriters Services, “Most business books written by top executives weren’t actually written by them. They were penned by ghostwriters—highly skilled, behind-the-scenes wordsmiths who take your experiences, ideas, and strategic insights and transform them into a compelling book that makes you look like a genius. (Which, of course, you are—just a very, very busy one.)”

Just look at the list above. Each book became a bestseller, enhanced the author’s brand, and boosted company recognition—often before the days of social media marketing. Ghostwriting has long held a respected (if discreet) seat in the C-suite.

So why not make use of that same secret weapon?

The “Cheating” Myth

Is hiring a ghostwriter cheating?

It’s a fair question—and one that ghostwriter Peter Albrecht, a longtime contributor to The Writers For Hire, addresses directly. He acknowledges the old stigma but encourages executives to move past it.

“Ghostwriters get the job done right, in record time, and often at a lower cost (when you factor in your own time) than if you did it yourself,” he explains.

Albrecht likens ghostwriters to the legendary “wrecking crew” of studio musicians from the 1950s and ’60s. These anonymous professionals could record in one take what it might have taken the band a full week in the studio to finish. “While the band wrote the song and the real singer sang it, the studio musicians were there to save time and money. Ghostwriting is similar.”

At the end of the day, Albrecht insists: “It’s your voice, they’re your ideas, you helped edit it and made certain it delivered your message exactly as you intended. Who really wrote this thing anyway? I think you kinda did.”

What It’s Like to Work With a Ghostwriter

“Ghostwriters capture the best-dressed version of your voice,” says Albrecht. “Through interviews and check-ins during the process, a ghostwriter is both your advocate and sounding board.”

But what does that actually look like?

Kristin Hackler of Forbes Books outlines the process, which is much more collaborative than most people realize. You might begin with a loose outline or a few key ideas. From there, your ghostwriter will ask thoughtful, probing questions—opening new avenues you may not have considered.

This is intentional. A skilled ghostwriter knows that exploring your story from different angles only strengthens the final product.

Ghostwriters are also researchers by nature. Even if you hang up a call with some unresolved questions, chances are your ghostwriter will come to the next meeting with data in hand and those loose ends tied up.

As for structure and editing, a ghostwriter helps ensure that every chapter supports the larger message. Hackler puts it beautifully: “It’s very easy to wander down a country road of thought, never quite making it back home. That’s where a ghostwriter can nudge you back to the thoroughfare.”From Company Jargon to Compelling Narrative

Let’s be honest: company jargon doesn’t translate to everyday readers. Even the most riveting story can fall flat if it’s not told in a way that connects with a broad audience.

This is where your ghostwriter shines.

A good ghostwriter not only captures your voice but also considers how your story will land with readers. While you remain in full creative control, your writer might identify angles or anecdotes that add unexpected depth or charm to your story.

As Albrecht notes, everyone “has some little inkling of a wild side.” Maybe you’re into fishing—your ghostwriter could use that to enrich your narrative, leading to a book that’s not just smart, but memorable.

“All of a sudden, you’ve created a charming little book,” says Albrecht, “and [can] share your positive story with the world from a whole new angle.”

Should You Work With a Ghostwriter?

If you’re a CEO with a second life as a professional writer—or just have a lot of time on your hands—writing your own business book might be doable.

But if you’re like most executives—time-strapped, idea-rich, and perhaps a little daunted by a blank page—then a ghostwriter is not just helpful, it’s essential.

In fact, even seasoned writers benefit from a second set of eyes. As Albrecht points out, in today’s hyper-sensitive, politically charged climate, hiring a ghostwriter is particularly wise if your business touches on hot-button issues: the environment, healthcare, gender, racial justice, wealth inequality, and more.

Ghostwriters can help you apologize, explain, advocate, or inspire—whatever your goal. More importantly, they help you avoid accidentally undermining your message or damaging your brand.

“Ghostwriters can approach a subject objectively and foresee where you might hurt your own image or brand,” Albrecht says. “And they can help you navigate those waters safely.”

Final Thoughts: It’s Still Your Book

Here’s the key takeaway: “It’s not their book—it’s yours,” says Albrecht. The right ghostwriter will “see your inner beauty and let it shine.”