When I first started writing seriously, I was amazed by how supportive the writing community out there really is. People going to each other's book, signings, plugging each other's books, websites--it is all so edifying.
I know for me, I love helping people, so anytime I come across a new writer who needs helps, I'm happy to point them in any direction I can. As far as I'm concerned, you can never have too many good books on the shelves, too many good authors out there. Plus, I strongly feel in the "pay it forward" concept--that if you've been helped, you have a responsibility to go forward and helps someone else. People might call it good karma, but I call it just being a good human.
How are some ways that you help other writers? How much time do you invest? Do you go to book signings, buy your friends' books ...what else? Comment on blogs, friend people on Twitter, Facebook--I feel like I'm still learning, so I'd love some tips out there.
7 comments:
I think being open and friendly is always helpful. Just talking to other writers, even if it is through online, shows that there is a community that really cares.
I agree--I hate it when I get the sense that someone is following me JUST because they want me to buy their book--then you can feel used. If you are genuinely yoruself, people can see that. :)
Because I've been so supported in my writing journey, it is a pleasure to be supportive and help others. On my blog, I interview both authors and writers who are "not yet published". It's fun to get to know both. Twitter doesn't take much time and gets me connected with other writers. Goodreads and Verla Kay's Blueboards are also wonderful places.
I love that you do that, Angelina!(interview me anytime, lol). And...I LOVE Goodreads--most people I know think I'm strange to read so much, but on Goodreads, it's the norm!
I try to follow blogs (though I can't read all the ones I follow, it would be a FT job in itself), and then working with the writers I know to beta read, critique, give feedback on queries. I am NOT an expert, but I think in many cases fresh eyes make all the difference in the world.
I volunteer on writing sites to help green authors hone in on thier voice and what works best for them. And, the grammar mistakes ... oh, the grammar mistakes. :)
Yeah, following blogs can really suck the time away! But when I feel like I've made a friend, it's so very worth it, right? Critiques always help, which is why I love my critique group.
@Amber---that is so cool that you volunteer on writing sites! That is definitely something that I don't have time for, though--so I'm very impressed.
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