Writing Information

Be A Savvy Writer: Go Where The Business Is

If you're a writer, you're in business. It doesn't matter whether you're writing picture books, or a self-help book for underachievers, or promotional material and flyers for anyone who wants it... YOU'RE IN BUSINESS.

Therefore, it makes sense to go where the business contacts are. I know, I know - it's tempting to just sit at home in front of the keyboard. No chance of getting rejected that way (at least not face to face!) But - don't do it. Get out there and meet people - you never know which contact might come in handy. Here are a few suggestions:

USEFUL CONTACTS

• Librarians (what are people reading? Which books don't stay on the shelves? Visit regularly and stay abreast of the trends) Bookstore owners and managers (ditto). Bookstore employees and managers can also give you a good idea of what goes on behind the scenes - marketing, returns and so on.
• Anyone in publishing - editors, art directors, marketing people, publicists, sales reps.
• Secretaries and assistants who work with those people.
• Other writers

WHERE YOU'LL FIND CONTACTS

DON'T BE AFRAID TO BE PROACTIVE

What level have you reached in your writing? Beyond the basics? Do you think you could run a workshop for others to teach them writing skills? If you feel you could put together a well- planned, interesting presentation, and you have good people skills, consider putting on a workshop. Arrange an article in the local paper if you can - if not, advertise.

If your writing skills are well developed, include a flyer in the course handouts offering your services. You could:

• write promotional material
• write business flyers
• write resumes and job application letters
• run a critique service
• ghostwrite books or leaflets

For the proactive writer, the sky is the limit. Those who go out after what they want are the ones who are 'lucky' enough to get the rewards.

(c) copyright Marg McAlister

Marg McAlister has published magazine articles, short stories, books for children, ezines, promotional material, sales letters and web content. She has written 5 distance education courses on writing, and her online help for writers is popular all over the world. Sign up for her regular writers' tipsheet at http://www.writing4success.com/