Ghostwriter Resume Example and Template
Ghostwriter resumes must demonstrate writing range and subject matter expertise without relying on portfolio samples that belong to clients. Instead, highlight types of work completed, client sectors, project scope, and word volume produced. Hiring managers look for proven ability to adopt different voices and maintain consistency across long-form projects.
Clients scan resumes for subject matter knowledge, writing speed, research capability, and discretion. Specific project descriptions and word counts matter more than portfolio links, since ghostwritten work remains confidential.
Also searched as
Senior Ghostwriter, Freelance Writer and Editor
Amanda Foster: Ghostwriter
Denver, Colorado, United States
Summary
Ghostwriter with 7 years authoring content across business, memoir, and prescriptive nonfiction. Completed 8 published books totaling 580,000 words. Specialized in C-suite thought leadership and executive memoirs. Maintained client relationships averaging 3 to 5 projects per year. Skilled in research, interview management, and adopting client voice and authority.
Work Experience
Senior Ghostwriter, Catalyst Publishing Group
Aug 2021 – Present. Publishing consultancy specializing in executive thought leadership
- Ghostwrote 3 published business books totaling 240,000 words for C-suite executives and entrepreneurs
- Managed client relationships and conducted 20 to 30 hour research and interview processes per project
- Developed book structure, chapter outlines, and narrative flow from client interviews and existing materials
- Maintained client voice and authority throughout writing process, revising 3 to 5 rounds per book
Ghostwriter, Self-Employed
Jan 2018 – Jul 2021. Freelance writing for publishers and individual clients
- Ghostwrote 5 published books totaling 340,000 words across business, memoir, and prescriptive nonfiction
- Specialized in executive memoir projects, conducting extensive interviews and research to develop authentic narratives
- Built sustainable client relationships, with repeat clients accounting for 70% of total project volume
- Managed all aspects of the writing process from initial research and structure through final manuscript delivery
Freelance Writer and Editor, Mountain Valley Media
Mar 2016 – Dec 2017. Boutique publishing and editorial services company
- Wrote and edited long-form content for business publications and corporate clients
- Assisted 2 clients with initial manuscript development and structure planning
- Contributed to ghost-writing projects in research and interview coordination roles
- Developed editorial voice and style understanding through diverse client work
Education
University of Colorado Boulder
Bachelor of Arts, English Literature and Creative Writing. Aug 2012 – May 2016
Skills
Long-form writing, Narrative structure, Interview and research, Executive voice, Client management, Memoir writing, Business writing, Content development, Editing and revision, Fact-checking
Languages
English, French
Why this look works
Ghostwriting demands professional credibility and clean presentation. This template emphasizes writing scope and subject expertise without flashiness. The structured design reflects the client-focused, detail-oriented work your career requires.
Resume tips for this job
- Lead with word count and number of completed books. This is your primary metric for scope and productivity. Include published status when possible.
- Specify the types of projects you've ghostwritten: thought leadership, memoir, prescriptive business books, or editorial work. Client sectors matter too: C-suite, entrepreneurs, or academic authors.
- Emphasize your research and interview management skills. Ghostwriting isn't just writing; it's understanding client voice, conducting interviews, and synthesizing complex information.
- Highlight your client retention rate. Repeat clients demonstrate reliability and quality. If you've built long-term relationships, say so.
Common questions
Can I list published books I ghostwrote on my resume?
Yes, if the confidentiality agreement allows it. Many ghostwriting contracts permit you to list the published work, though the book is credited to the client. Check your contract. If you can't list it, describe the project type and word count without naming the book or author.
How do I show writing quality without portfolio samples?
Describe your process and the complexity of the projects you managed. Highlight client retention, positive outcomes, or awards the published books received. In interviews, you can discuss your approach to client voice and research. Your professionalism and references matter more than samples.
What if some of my ghostwritten books didn't publish?
Include unpublished work with honest description of its status. You completed the work, managed the process, and delivered a manuscript. Publication depends on many factors beyond writer competence. Show that you delivered quality work under contract, regardless of final publication.
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