Member Spotlight: Toni Robino
How did you land your first book ghostwriting project?
There’s a longer version of this story, but I’ll summarize.
While on a study tour in Egypt, I met an astrologer who wrote for Vogue magazine and many media outlets in Australia. She was fascinating and I was surprised that she hadn’t had a book published in the U.S., so shortly after I got home I called her and asked if she was considering writing a book.
To my surprise, she said her editors at Vogue had just told her they’d like her to write a book for the U.S. market. But she said she’d already written books that were published in Australia and didn’t relish the idea of writing another one.
She said, “Will you write my book?”
I heard myself say yes, and that was the beginning of a fun and lucrative project. At that time, I’d never heard the term ghostwriter, but since my background was in writing and journalism, I had the confidence that I could figure out whatever I needed to know and learn.
Harper Collins published the book, and the author’s husband, who’s a personal development expert, was impressed enough with it that he hired me to write his first traditionally published book.
What has been your secret to building a steady stream of ghostwriting clients?
Developing strong, lasting relationships with clients, literary agents and other ghostwriters.
Being proactive about creating opportunities for myself with professional groups and organizations, including offering presentations, workshops and panels.
What do you wish clients understood about the ghostwriting process?
I wish more aspiring authors understood that working with a collaborator is something they can be proud of because it’s a smart choice for people who want their books to be great.
How would you describe your favorite type of project and client?
I love helping people who want to build a brighter world with books. Their projects always appeal to me, and I have a lot of resonance with those authors.
What are the best parts of this career?
Collaborating with and learning from thought leaders, change-makers and visionaries from all over the world and guiding them to create books that can make a positive difference.
How can people reach you?
