In Honor of International Hat Day - The Many Hats of a Writer

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Happy International Hat Day! When I decided that I wanted to be a writer in elementary school, my vision was to write books and cash royalty checks. Until the first book contract arrived, I had no idea of all the aspects of the job. Here are a few things I learned along the way…

Always Wear Your Helmet

  • Vet all publication and representation offers.

  • Make sure you have a contract (even for work for hire).

  • If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Research Is Important

  • Even fiction writers need to do research.

  • Do your homework for your writing and your business.

  • Check all your facts.

  • Keep good notes.

  • Vet your resources.

Just Write

  • BICFOK (Butt in Chair - Fingers on Keyboard)

  • Focus your attention and write.

  • Set writing goals that work for you to help you stay on track.

  • Finish your first draft.

Editing is the Most Important Part

  • Proofread and then proofread again.

  • Fact check your work for inconsistencies.

  • Read as a reader. Is the story captivating? (If you’re bored reading it, your readers will be, too.)

  • Find a critique partner or group for feedback.

  • Use your word processor’s read aloud function to listen to the text, especially dialog.

  • Edit. Revise. Repeat.

  • Make sure that your work is the best it can be.

Marketing is Expected

  • Create your platform (website, blog, socials, newsletter).

  • Build your social media and newsletter list followings. It takes time.

  • Know who your readers are and what social media platform they use.

  • Promotion is expensive. Figure out what works for you and set a budget.

Find Your Crew

  • Network with other writers.

  • Join writers’ groups.

  • Volunteer.

  • Go to conferences and workshops.

  • Join online groups.

And always celebrate your wins!