Saw the headline, “Jimmie Johnson Does it Again” today and I instantly remembered the siren sounds of Formula One racing, though I haven’t been on a track in years. At one point in my life, I internalized the rush of that sound in answering the call of – we need a writer. As a college student, the phrase – we need a writer – was golden to me as my schedule was pretty open, giving me lots of opportunity to be THAT writer.
This time however when we need a writer was used, it was a big deal. The assignment was the Long Beach Grand Prix and associated with it, a series of week long events that included interviews, luncheons, track time, and socializing. It was a dream opportunity and included an amazing press pass, so I jumped at the chance.
The week of activities, the adrenaline and the thrill of watching the races progress were greater than I could have imagined. Yet, the highlight of my week was meeting an industry icon.
One day I scurried into a crowded elevator on my way to that day’s luncheon, to find myself a mere twelve inches from racing legend, Mario Andretti. He was smiling broadly and humming softly to himself. Our eyes met and he said hello. I smiled back and asked if he knew what was for lunch. I’ll never forget his response. “I’m not sure,” he said with a twinkle in his eye, “but I hope there’s chocolate.” I laughed, the doors opened and we went our separate ways.
I realized that day that Mr. Andretti and likely every other industry icon I had met was not just an industry pro – that each had their own story and that it needed to be told.
That’s part of why I enjoy getting calls from companies who say – we need a writer. I enjoy telling the story, fleshing out the details, embracing the achievements, and asking the questions. As a writer, I’m a bit unusual in that I don’t need the “byline” to enjoy my work and that is part of why ghostwriting works so well for me.
When I write for you, as you, I follow your topic. I get to know your industry in-depth, your products, vendors, customers, and legislation news. When you say, we need a writer, I know what you mean and what you want. Because researching topics and writing about them is what I do – it’s part of who I am and I find it challenging and fun.
And, you know what, I still keep track of Mario Andretti and he still follows the races – whether they involve motorcycles, NASCAR, or Formula One racing AND he still loves dark chocolate and opera. With racing, as with writing, some things just get into your blood and become a part of you.
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