Networking is one of my favorite topics to talk about, and one of my favorite things to do. No longer can a writer simply lock themselves away into a dark room and type, networking has become a crucial part of any writer’s life.
Networking is a way to find work, to sell your writing, to find readers, fans and friends, it helps create a support base and a sounding board for ideas. Networking is a way to establish yourself as a writer and a way to keep yourself visible.
Now, I could go on forever about Networking but I’m going to instead provide 5 tips for networking that anyone can follow.
1. It’s impossible to network if you don’t talk to anyone.
Plain and simple, you can’t network with anyone if all you ever do is write alone in a dark room. Now, I’m not saying to stop writing and spend all your time tweeting about writing, no way! But, finding a balance between writing and networking is the way to go. I’d recommend a 2 to 1 ratio for the time spent on writing versus networking.
2. Don’t be an asshole.
This one is simple enough, don’t step on toes, burn bridges, or make enemies, especially when you are first starting out. Smile and say thank you even if you don’t want to. Don’t be a doormat and don’t be afraid to say no, but focus on meeting people and making friends.
3. Be thankful.
If someone helps you out, if you read something that inspires you, etc. then send that person a thank you. Share your gratitude for the people who have gotten you where you are.
4. Do favors for others.
Networking is not all about ‘What can you do for me?’ but it’s about creating a friendship, a partnership where two people help one another out to better both their lives. Know of a romance anthology calling for submissions? Let your romance writer friend on twitter know. See a place that needs a super hero author to interview? Suggest your friend who works on comic books.
5. Keep your word.
Do not make promises you cannot keep. Period. End of story. Yes, life happens and there may be some deadlines you can’t meet, but they should be the exception not the rule, and that should only happen under the most extreme of circumstances. Do not become known as someone who can’t meet deadlines or who never does what they promise.
And there you have 5 simple tips for networking. This is not an end-all, be-all list and there are a ton more to comment on. One day I hope to do a whole panel about networking and I’d love to hear all of your tips and ideas about networking. So share away!
Eric Said:
on January 10, 2012 at 9:25 am
Ah, number three explains why my boss keeps failing!
Andi Judy Said:
on January 31, 2012 at 10:40 am
Hahah, number three is just such a tricky one to follow…
Networking for Readers « Judy Black Cloud Said:
on February 7, 2012 at 12:54 am
[...] I’ve done posts in the past about networking for writers and how it is a great way to get to know other writers, and an amazing way to find writing work. [...]