7 Tips to Pay It Forward As an Author
For the month of February, I've invited various authors with current releases to share something about their writing. This week, I'd like you to meet Wendy Tyson, author of the Allison Campbell series and her new release, A Muddied Murder, available on March 29. I met Wendy when she appeared on a mystery writers' panel at my local indie bookstore. Her books are awesome, and she's offered to share some tips for authors that will gain you lots of personal satisfaction and visibility.
Authors are a giving bunch.
It never ceases to amaze me just how warm and welcoming suspense
authors—folks seemingly preoccupied with crime—can be. I hear a lot of talk
about paying it forward, and I have certainly been on the receiving end of
established authors’ good will. An author
never forgets that successful writer who agrees to write a blurb for an unknown
debut, or that author who offers her or his own social media platform to
promote a lesser-known author’s work.
·
Mentor
other writers. Once you’re
published, other writers will reach out—for guidance, support, even
endorsements. Taking the time to respond
to them will mean a lot, even if you can’t do what they’re asking. We’ve all been novices at some point. Remember how it feels to be the new person
trying to decipher the confusing world of publishing and give someone the
benefit of your experience.
·
Teach a
class. Sharing your insight is a great way to give back. This can be done individually, but also
through workshops and at conferences. If
you have a particular skill, offer to teach a class. Writing festivals are
often looking for workshop leaders, as are libraries. Teaching is also a great
way to make connections.
·
Support
local libraries and independent bookstores.
If you’re lucky enough to have a great indie bookstore nearby,
go! Attend events, buy books, mention it
online and offer to do signings there.
Same for public libraries. I
found my hometown library to be a great support and resource. You can offer to help the library by holding
workshops and participating in speaking events.
·
Visit
book clubs. I love book clubs, and
I’ve found book club visits to be a terrific way to connect with readers. Plus, in my experience, book club members are
incredibly appreciative of an author’s time.
Every time I attend one, I learn something new about my own work—and I
make new friends. You don’t have to go
to someone’s house. You can offer to
meet in a public place (like a library or bookstore), or you can do it online
via Skype or another platform if you’d prefer.
·
Nurture
kids’ writing. One of my favorite
ways of giving back is by talking to kids about writing. I’ve found them eager to learn and excited
about the possibilities. Stop by your
local schools and offer to talk to students, or reach out to local libraries or
writing camps.
·
Fundraise. Do you write about animals? Children?
Human trafficking? Find a way to use your platform to raise money for a worthy
cause related to your work—or a cause close to your heart. Sometimes fund
raising can be as simple as doing a book signing at a nonprofit event. You can
also educate or heighten awareness about a particular topic. Of course, you
want to be careful to avoid the soapbox, but if you present a balanced view,
you may be surprised at the receptiveness of readers and other authors.
·
Volunteer. There really are endless ways you can
volunteer to use your writing abilities to benefit From taking on a role in a writing
organization, to writing brochures for a local charity, to donating your time
during a writing convention, you’ll likely find people eager for your help and
expertise.
others.
In the end, giving back to the writing community will pay
back in dividends. Not only will you have the satisfaction of helping others,
but you’ll create more presence in the industry and have the opportunity
network beyond your inner circle.
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| Wendy Tyson |
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