Many of my writing students tell me they’re shy, introverted or just want to toil in solitude as they write the great American novel. I wish them luck. While a writing “loner” might find his/her way to the top, for most it’s a self-defeating posture to stay isolated. This Thursday, it’s Field Trip night in Novel Writing Class. I introduce students to the local chapter of a large state-wide organization called Willamette Writers. I do this as many terms as possible for 3 reasons: To help new writers get their feet wet in learning to network, to introduce them to one of the largest writing organizations in Oregon, and to expose them to other writer’s viewpoints and/or teaching styles. To both my Tuesday Memoir and Thursday Novel classes: I hope you’ll joing me this Thursday @ 6:30PM @ Tsunami Books to hear author Melissa Hart speak on writing (and selling) humorous essays.
Writing Tip for Today: If you are a shy writer, there’s hope for you. I recommend using FaceBook or other social media to “get your feet wet” with Networking. You don’t have to give info if you don’t want to. It’s a no-cost, nonthreatening way to network. You never know who may have the perfect connection, venue or even readership that will help you succeed. Other ideas include: Blogging regularly, maintaining and adding to an email database, writing a monthly newsletter or holding contests or giveaways. If all else fails, I recommend C. Hope Clark’s The Shy Writer. Now get out there and network!