Need Writing Work? Network with Other Writers

by Lilka Raphael @Lilka_Raphael

Three Reasons for Writers to Connect with Writers

“Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.” – Michele Jennae

Even the most reclusive writers must associate with people. Though self-publishing may require less interaction with industry professionals, it still requires engagement with potential readers. Writing may be a solitary pursuit, yet to publish our work and build an audience requires that we meet, greet, and form relationships. Here are three reasons for introverted writers to network to gain work.

1. Perfect Your Craft

It is possible to gain the proficiencies necessary to become a successful writer on our own. However, it is less frustrating and easily accomplished when we learn via the expertise of other writers and editors. These individuals can clearly identify deficits that elude us. Professional associates of friends that have been vetted or recommendations from acquaintances are preferable to random searches on the internet. It’s ideal to have an arsenal of professionals to call on before we need them. Submitting our best work creates prospects for paid work.

2. Build Community

It is relatively easy to connect with professionals in the industry. Simply follow up by email with the people you meet at conferences and workshops. If that feels too formal, connect with them on social media by liking and commenting on their posts.

Sustaining these casual relationships expands our professional network. Follow the Facebook page of your favorite conference or writers club and connect with the attendees. The treasure trove of information graciously shared on these pages is priceless. Likewise, reciprocate by offering leads regarding publishers, editors, and resources when questions arise. Community is give and take. The more you offer, the more you will receive.

3. Build Your Brand

If you want to obtain work, it is vital that people know who you are and what you write. I spoke with an acclaimed author who responded to an editor she casually knew. The editor had a client in need of help to meet a deadline, and he knew that she wrote devotions. Her assistance on one project sparked a lucrative and lasting career. Opportunity may not always knock, but God uses people to open doors. We can’t walk through them if we remain isolated.

Networking can be as simple as engaging with the people that visit our sites. Our professional media accounts should reflect what we write, and if possible, why we write. It is the connectivity between individuals that allows our words to entertain, inspire, and heal. As writers, we should relate to others not merely through our words but with ourselves. 

Networking is not a dirty word. It is vital to our profession. If writers are to convey words that impact the world, we must wade away from the comfort of the shore.

When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Luke 5:4 NIV

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A Florida native, Lilka Finley Raphael has been a licensed pharmacist for over thirty years. Her passions for writing, gardening, and photography prompted her to share her experiences and life lessons on her blogs B Is for Blessed and God, autism, & me. You can learn more about her at lilkaraphael.com

Lilka’s greatest achievements are her two adult sons who have flown the nest. Happily married for thirty-two years, she lives east of Atlanta with her husband, Rod. They now share their home with two German Shepherds—Holly and Ivy—and one naughty kitty, Moxie.