Expanding Your Web - Networking Tips for Authors
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Sometimes, networking is a challenge. It can be difficult to step out and strike up conversations. Here are some ideas to help authors expand their network of contacts.
Save business cards of people you meet. I usually jot on the back where I met them. It helps later when you have a pile of business cards and no recollection of the meeting.
Use some sort of software or contact list (e.g. in your phone or email program) to keep all of your contacts in one place. When you get a new contact, add it immediately. I add notes about where I met the person. I book a lot of programs for my writing group, so it helps to remember what they do and where I met them. I also use the “File As” field to help me find them again. Instead of typing Doe, Jayne. I enter, Doe, Jayne - Web Designer. (Make sure you back up these files, so that you can recover them in an emergency.)
If you are shy, quiet, or not outgoing, make a pact with yourself to meet five new people each week. It’s good practice for putting yourself out there and talking to strangers. You will meet some interesting people. You can use this technique on social media too. Follow five or ten new people a week or join in a conversation.
Volunteer. It’s good for everyone. There are so many groups out there looking for the skills you have as a writer. And it’s a great way to meet new people.
Donate to prize give-aways. I do a lot of book baskets for my favorite charity fundraisers. It’s a nice way to contribute.
Let the planners in the organizations that you are a part of know that you’re a writer, and you’re willing to do events. Clubs, book groups, religious groups, charities, and alumni organizations are always looking for speakers and program content.
Find an organization that you’re interested in and join. Go to meetings and events to network with new people. The easiest way in an organization to meet others is to volunteer for an activity.
Follow hashtags (Twitter and Instagram) and groups (Facebook) to join online communities to meet others with similar interests.
Unless you’re an outgoing, people person, it’s often hard to meet new people and strike up conversations. It’s good practice to get in the habit of networking. Authors are often called upon to do speaking engagements or interviews. What would you add to my list?
