Member Spotlight: Tobi Nifesi

How did you land your first book ghostwriting project?

I used to work as a journalist and editor at a newspaper, covering stories about artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, and authors in Canada. As a part of my job, I interviewed authors, read their books, and wrote comprehensive reviews.

On one occasion, after writing a review of an author’s upcoming book, their publisher approached me and asked if I could provide guidance to other authors on their roster. I had spent a lot of time meeting and critiquing authors and knew a thing or two about authorship and the book-writing process, so I agreed to help.

Within a couple of months of working together, the publisher asked me to do some editing work. Eventually, they offered me the opportunity to ghostwrite a book for one of their authors.

That first project went really well; the author and their publisher were very pleased with the work so much so that I was invited to work on another project. Since then, I have worked with many more authors and publishers and now offer my ghostwriting services independently.

What has been your secret to building a steady stream of ghostwriting clients?

Many of my previous clients have referred me to other aspiring authors in their network, and for that, I’m very grateful.

But beyond referrals, over the years, I’ve tested and narrowed down the marketing channels that work best for my business and attract my ideal clientele. For example, I prioritize driving targeted traffic to my website using SEO strategies over email outreach campaigns.

I’ve also leaned on fellow ghostwriters, publishing professionals, and associations I belong to (e.g. Association of Ghostwriters, The Ghostwriter Agency, BC Federation of Writers, etc.) for support, industry insights, and the occasional job lead.

What do you wish clients understood about the ghostwriting process?

I wish clients understood the importance of writing a book with the reader in mind, and that they would be better off focusing on what readers need to know more than what they want to say/write. No matter how interesting their story might be or how insightful their perspective is, some may not be relevant to their ideal reader and don’t need to be in the book. And that’s okay.

The right professional ghostwriter will take your readers into consideration and help you produce an engaging, compelling, and comprehensive narrative that keeps the reader reading.

How would you describe your favorite type of project and client?

I enjoy working on projects (memoirs and other nonfiction books) that speak to the resilience of humanity and help readers make sense of the world around them.

My favorite clients understand that their book will reach rooms they may never enter, so they approach their project thoughtfully and are willing to commit the time, energy, and investment needed to create something beautiful and timeless.

I’m grateful that I’m in a position to choose who I get to work with. Considering how long and intensive the ghostwriting process can be, it’s important that I work on projects I love and with people that I enjoy spending time with.

What are the best parts of this career?

My favorite part of ghostwriting is the relationships I get to build with authors. From the beginning of my ghostwriting career, my work has always revolved around understanding the author, their goals, audience, and story. Through this work, I’ve been very fortunate to meet some incredible people, learn a lot about their corners of the world, see life from their perspective, and help them share their stories.

How can people reach you?

You can email me at tobi@tobinifesi.com with questions or for a free consultation. You can also check out my website at tobinifesi.com to learn more about my work and services.