The Value of Networking

Let's face it--writing is a lonely job. Not necessarily in a bad way (though the stories of authors battling depression lie in the back of our consciousness), but what all that alone time with words does is help create nervousness, panic and sometimes fear in the heart of the author when it comes to speaking up on behalf of yourself and your work.

And nothing--nothing outside of not writing--can be more detrimental to your writing career. I actually got my start in freelancing (in a national magazine no less) the first time I publically admitted I was a writer, so the value of networking resonates deeply with me.

Whether you're published or up-and-coming, never underestimate networking. Interestingly enough, as I considered this topic, I read a new issue of one of my fave writing ezines, the Fabulist Flash, which happened to have the entire issue focused on networking. Gregory shares the best insight in his weekly newsletter. Sign up yourself for free while you're there.

The Fabulist Flash vol. 123: Networking

Happy, happy networking
Beth

Ezine: The Motivated Writer

Came across this last week and set it aside to read at a later date--until today when it was forwarded to me again, making me take notice. Since us writers always want to know about other writers....

The Motivated Writer ezine (monthly, free subscriptions):
http://www.themotivatedwriter.com/

Happy writing (& reading up on other writers...)

Beth

Thursday Bonus Post: Literary Agents

Just reading the latest issue of the Fabulist Flash ezine over lunch. Subscribe (for free, of course) and you won't be disappointed: www.fabulistflash.com.

Editor Gregory Kompes does a fab job of bringing great, weekly writing articles and info your way, and this issue continues the tradition.

As of late, the writer's lament on my local RWA chapter loop has centered around literary agents. Two Fabulist Flash articles give writers insight into the arena of the literary agent: Why Literary Agents Are So Important To Your Success by Steve Manning and Query Letters: Ten Ways to Hook a Literary Agent by Lisa Silverman.

You'll need to scroll a wee bit to get to the good stuff. Like waiting for the center of a tootsie pop, however, it's well worth it.

The Fabulist Flash, Issue 121: http://www.fabulistflash.com/fabulistflash/ffarchives/ff121.html

Happy agent-ing,
Beth