Ways Writers Can Develop Real Connections
When I talk to Internet-exclusive writers about how to break into new markets such as magazines and small publications, a common complaint I hear is that they don't have connections.
While all you really need to get published is good writing skill and an interesting, unique topic, there are some benefits to making connections in the industry.
What many writers don't realize is that it's easier than you think to make these connections.
Just keep in mind that some of these ideas are going to require you to actually step away from your computer.
Stay Updated on Who the Editors Are When you want to make real connections, you need to invest the time to know who the editors are of publications you want to write for.
You need to be sure you know which department they edit for and how to spell their names correctly.
If they move to a new magazine or department, be sure to keep track of this as well.
Send Introductory Emails Another way of networking and developing connections is to send introductory emails to editors of publications you wish to write for.
This should be genuine and not spammy.
It shouldn't be a query or your life story.
It should just be a simple, short "hello there" explaining who you are.
Editors are human, too (most of them) and they will often appreciate this gesture and remember your name.
Network with Other Writers This is one you probably think you have nailed down already, especially with the ease of the Internet.
Just keep in mind that it's not enough just to have a bunch of writers on your Facebook.
Real networking with writers means associating yourself with people in similar types of writing as you, sharing leads and connections and making introductions to editors, when possible.
Sharing contact names and leads can prove very useful in the writing world.
When you invest the time to develop real connections as a writer as well as to prove your worth and experience with every project you take, it will pay off time and time again with projects, assignments and accepted pitches.
Are you investing into your writing future?
While all you really need to get published is good writing skill and an interesting, unique topic, there are some benefits to making connections in the industry.
What many writers don't realize is that it's easier than you think to make these connections.
Just keep in mind that some of these ideas are going to require you to actually step away from your computer.
Stay Updated on Who the Editors Are When you want to make real connections, you need to invest the time to know who the editors are of publications you want to write for.
You need to be sure you know which department they edit for and how to spell their names correctly.
If they move to a new magazine or department, be sure to keep track of this as well.
Send Introductory Emails Another way of networking and developing connections is to send introductory emails to editors of publications you wish to write for.
This should be genuine and not spammy.
It shouldn't be a query or your life story.
It should just be a simple, short "hello there" explaining who you are.
Editors are human, too (most of them) and they will often appreciate this gesture and remember your name.
Network with Other Writers This is one you probably think you have nailed down already, especially with the ease of the Internet.
Just keep in mind that it's not enough just to have a bunch of writers on your Facebook.
Real networking with writers means associating yourself with people in similar types of writing as you, sharing leads and connections and making introductions to editors, when possible.
Sharing contact names and leads can prove very useful in the writing world.
When you invest the time to develop real connections as a writer as well as to prove your worth and experience with every project you take, it will pay off time and time again with projects, assignments and accepted pitches.
Are you investing into your writing future?
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