Why Writers Forums Work – A Guest Blog

Initially, I tried to resist joining writers’ forums. Shouldn’t I be focusing on writing for money? I thought. How would this get me more assignments or pay? But once I gave in, I discovered that writers’ forums can be incredibly useful (as long as you’re able to close the browser window and get work to work when you necessary).

• Trading leads. I’ve found a lot of writers who are willing to share editorial contacts provided you don’t use their name (and some who will actually encourage you to “tell Editor X I said hello”). If you return the favor, then people will want to help you again.
• Finding sources. Many writers’ forums including Media Bistro and Absolute Write have a section specifically for finding sources. So post away!
• Discovering new markets. Whenever someone posts asking “who knows an editor at X publication?” it’s an opportunity for you to find a new home for your writing. Plus, if you start emailing one-on-one with someone who has similar interests, they’ll likely introduce you to more new markets.
• Commiserating or sharing successes. It’s easy to get sucked into rants about “this newspaper hasn’t paid me” or “that editor ruined my life” (which is why if you’re going to rant, don’t use your name or link to your professional site). But sometimes it feels good to know that someone else broke into their dream market or understood your frustration about a client.
• (the bonus) Promoting your blog or website. This should be an ancillary benefit and not your reason for posting, but hey, if it boosts traffic, why not?

Susan Johnston is a copywriter by day and a freelancer by night. Learn more at www.susan-johnston.com and http://www.theUrbanMuse.blogspot.com/.
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