Partnering - Tips for Authors

Writing is a solitary endeavor, but you do need a good network of resources or partners to be successful. I challenge you as a writer to seek out others who can help you celebrate the wins and weather the bumps in the road. It’s way too lonely to do it all by yourself.

The best thing that I ever did for my writing life was to find other writers in my genre and my part of the state. As part of these groups, I have found friends, resources, sounding boards, and some amazingly generous people who share their time and talents with others. Their support, advice, and friendship are invaluable.

Events - Book signings and other events are always easier and way more fun if there are several authors participating. I’m so fortunate to have so many friends to recommend and plan events together. It’s also a way for all the participating authors to expand their audiences and to introduce their readers to new authors. Plus, road trips are always fun with other writers. Hanging out with other mystery writers is always a favorite for me.

Promotions - Sharing a table at an event or the price of an advertisement is always a cost savings. I’m able to spread my marketing dollars farther when I partner with others.

Contacts - By networking and working with others, it makes it so much easier when you need a recommendation, review, or a blurb. I would so much rather reach out to a friend or a colleague than do a cold call or email.

Conferences - Large events like conferences and conventions aren’t as scary when you already know people who are going. Every time there is a big event, my writer groups put at the call for meet ups, and it makes the events memorable.

Advice - Whenever I’m about to sign a contract or try a new event or promotion, I always reach out to my network to see if anyone has any experience or advice. It makes a world of difference when a writer friend makes a reference or recommendation.

Opportunities - When people know you, your abilities and that you’re dependable, they are more apt to call you when opportunities arise for events, workshops, talks, promotions, critique partnerships, group blogs, online parties, and a host of other good things.

Just remember that writing is a business, and you need to treat yours like one. If you set up deals with friends and colleagues (and money is involved), make sure that you have a contract and you understand who is responsible for what.

What else would you add to my list?