Writers Need to Network!
Real writers don’t wait for the muse; neither do they wait for uninterrupted quiet time nor squall about having “writer’s block.” They get busy. They write! And when they’ve written, they concentrate on selling their work. If they have self-published, they network to promote and sell their books; if they are seeking an agent or a publisher, they network to get noticed.
Networking is about giving and receiving attention, about exchanging information. It is about gathering resources, including introductions to people who can help you get what you want. You can network at parties, community events, at a local business, or by simply meeting someone on the street. You can even network in the comfort of your own home via phone, mail and e-mail. Networking takes place anywhere one person can communicate with another. Writers who have actually written something and are ready to sell, should also attend writers’ conferences to network with agents, editors, and other writers … to get noticed.
An effective networker knows how to make an impact … direct eye contact, attentive listening and a brief “pitch” that doesn’t seem like a pitch. You should be able, in 30 seconds, to communicate clearly and persuasively who you are, what you want, and why you should have it. That is not much time. You’ll need to prepare and practice. Here are some additional tips:
Be the first to say Hello. Smile and offer your hand.
Take time during introductions; remember names.
Stay focused on the conversation.
Listen more than you talk.
Avoid controversial topics.
Act confident and comfortable, even when you’re not.
Know when to exit.
Janet Litherland is the author of the novels, Chain of Deception and Discovery In Time, as well as 10 nonfiction books, several collections of music/drama-related scripts, and numerous articles and stories for national publications. As former associate editor of Florida Hotel & Motel Journal, she contributed 78 feature articles to that magazine. She also has taught college extension courses in creative writing and has served as a seminar leader for writers’ conferences. For more information, please visit http://www.janetlitherland.com
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