Goblins and Ghost Writers
As Halloween approaches, the goblins and ghosts circle among us. In the world of writing, ghost writers usually don’t have white sheets over their heads shouting, “Trick or Treat!” Instead, a ghost writer, is a professional writer who researches, writes and publishes content that is ultimately credited to another person. For example, choose your favorite politician. He or she may be eloquent and well spoken, when you see them delivering a speech, but most likely a ghost writer developed and wrote the speech. While you may not receive the same amount of fame and glory, as a ghost writer you are still providing a service and delivering content to your audience.
Successful ghost writing for online continuing education begins with an initial interview of the subject matter expert or SME. Talk to the SME and discover the “voice” they use. Using proper voice is especially important, if you will be writing using the first person point of view. For example, if your SME delivers information using anecdotes, add anecdotes throughout your writing.
Next, develop a thorough list of questions for a full interview with your SME. Write out everything you would like to know from the writer, then condense your list to ask no more than ten questions.
Interview your SME. It is best to interview in person, but you can also complete this task over the phone. At the beginning of the interview, tell your SME exactly what you are going to do. “I have ten questions I would like to ask you. As we talk, please add anything you feel is vital for me to know.”
Let your SME speak, and record what they say. Most of your information comes simply from listening to the SME. You may have developed wonderful questions; however, your SME will tell you exactly what they want you to know and write about regardless of your questions. Guide the interview, but listen to what the SME tells you.
Develop an initial draft for review. Include your SME throughout the process. Clarify information, and ask for more when needed. Ask the SME to proof your initial draft to provide feedback. Remember to keep the point of view consistent, and use the voice of the SME instead of your own.
Make final revisions and publish. As you have done throughout the process, involve the SME. Know that you will get little credit; however, you have delivered valuable content for your audience.
Look for ghost writers behind their computers and desks rather than with bags of candy throughout your neighborhood. While we may not be the scariest this Halloween, we are certainly some of the craftiest.
Tags: Interviewing, Online Education, Research, SME, Subject Matter Expert, Writing