What CEOs Can Learn from Prince Harry’s Memoir: Secrets of CEO Ghostwriting
Prince Harry’s memoir, Spare, captivated millions with its royal insights and raw, personal voice—a voice shaped by his ghostwriter, J.R. Moehringer, who invested countless hours interviewing Harry and connecting with his inner circle. This deeply personal narrative revealed a public figure navigating private struggles, making him relatable and human. CEOs have a lot to learn from Spare when it comes to connecting with their audience. Like Prince Harry, CEOs can use skilled ghostwriting to share their story authentically, moving beyond standard messaging to reveal the individual behind the title.
In today’s landscape, where transparency is valued, CEO ghostwriting offers a unique opportunity to convey more than just business acumen—it lets leaders share their journey. Thoughtful ghostwriting transforms CEOs into storytellers, building a voice that resonates with audiences and forges genuine connections. Below are three tips inspired by Spare on how to effectively ghostwrite for CEOs:
Listen Without an Agenda
Reporters often enter interviews with a specific narrative in mind. CEOs face similar dynamics when interviewed by internal teams, who may seek out predetermined answers. To create authentic content, CEO ghostwriters need to listen without bias. One of my go-to questions for an interview is, “What’s your story?”
This open-ended question creates space for genuine, unscripted responses. Celebrity autobiographies succeed because they’re told in the subject's own words, with real experiences that feel authentic. Ghostwriting for CEOs should follow the same principle. While anyone can share business advice, it’s the personal, lived experiences that are irreplaceable—no one else can replicate those moments. Capitalize on that unique content.
Resist the Urge to Rephrase for the Sake of It
Whenever possible, CEO ghostwriting should retain the executive’s original tone and phrasing. Use their compelling turns of phrase and direct quotes—these elements lend an authentic feel that can’t be manufactured. Interview transcripts are essential for this purpose, and video recordings can also provide valuable context. Over time, as you interview your CEO, you’ll start to see recurring themes in their speech that can serve as brand guidelines.
Consistency is key to capturing a CEO’s voice. Identify specific phrases or expressions they use often; these naturally become part of their signature style. Some CEOs frequently use analogies or industry-specific references. Including these details not only enhances authenticity but also reinforces their personal brand. Gradually, these patterns build a recognizable and genuine impression for readers, one that enhances the CEO’s public image as much as their business insights do.
Don’t Be Afraid to Get Personal
Depending on the relationship, CEOs can seem intimidating, but personal questions can be essential for meaningful ghostwriting. When working with a new client, I explain why I’m asking these questions and reassure them they can share only what they’re comfortable with. I also make it clear that they’ll have the chance to review and approve content before distribution. This process builds trust, making intimate conversations easier over time.
As trust deepens, CEOs often begin to share formative stories and insights they wouldn’t otherwise discuss. These elements create a more humanized narrative that resonates with audiences. Integrating these personal touches into professional content helps CEOs connect with stakeholders, adding layers of transparency and authenticity to their leadership.
CEO ghostwriting is about more than arranging words—it’s about capturing a leader’s voice and experiences in a way that feels natural and relatable. With open-ended listening, consistent voice capture, and a trust-building approach, ghostwriters can help CEOs forge genuine connections with their audience. At its best, ghostwriting elevates a CEO’s public presence, transforming them from a title into an inspiring storyteller.