Building a Web Presence

So many writers I talk to struggle with finding regular work. Occasionally that has to do with their lack of effort, but most of the time it has to do with not knowing how to multiply their efforts.

There are lots of ways writers can multiply their efforts, from selling reprint articles, to re-purposing existing articles as well as building a web presence. This week I’ll discuss building a web presence.

Building a presence on the Internet sounds difficult and time consuming, but with the advent of social networking and today’s technology it’s becoming easier and easier. One word of caution, don’t spend so much time on web presence that you have trouble finding time to write. Here are some simple ideas to help anyone get started.

Facebook
If you are a book writer, consider a fan page. Otherwise, sign up for a personal account and post to it regularly in regard to your writing. Even if it’s just a quote, it keeps you in front of the public.
Warning: It’s easy to get caught up in the Facebook world so I limit my visiting hours to 3 times a day. Once in the morning, once in the afternoon and once in the evening.


Twitter
Again, sign up for a personal account. Look for friends who also have twitter accounts and sign up to ‘follow’ them. People are usually good about reciprocating when you follow them.
Warning: Just because someone follows you, it doesn’t obligate you to follow them. Choose wisely and keep your focus in mind.

Blog
You’d be amazed at how much interest I get from this simple blog. Find something you enjoy writing about and share it regularly through a blog.
Warning: It is important to keep your blog posts on a regular schedule. If you tell people you’ll have a new post every Monday, don’t be late, you won’t often get a second chance.


Signature Line
This refers to the way you sign your emails and actually takes up several lines. In any email program it’s possible to set up a standard signature line that shows up on every email. Be sure you take advantage of this option. What goes on a signature line?

• Your name
• A link to your website
• Your blog address
• Your twitter account name
• A link to your latest book (if you write books)

Warning: Keep your signature line to a maximum of 6 lines. Anything more and people lose interest.

With all these options anyone can begin to build a presence on the web.

Coming on Thursdays, starting this week, I’ll begin reviewing writing books, software and conferences.


Don’t forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie