There's that old dating advice that a woman never admits she has no plans on a Saturday night. In the writing world, the direct opposite is true. When invited to participate in a writing-related function or a social gathering, why on earth would you pretend you're too busy to be there? As a professional writer, you want to be available, accessible, and generous with your time and wisdom. Why?
Well, for one thing because I'm a big believer in Paying Forward. I'm humble enough to admit that I wouldn't be anywhere in this industry if not for the wisdom more experienced authors were generous enough to share with me when I was first starting out. The best way to pay homage to those great writers is to emulate their example.
Another reason? (Warning: a little more mercenary) Readers are more likely to buy a book from someone they feel they "know." In this harsh economy, people aren't as willing to part with hard-earned cash for an unknown. And if you don't show up at speaking engagements, book events, get-togethers with other writers, and other social opportunities because you're "too busy," readers won't get the chance to know you at all. The more often you participate in various appearances and events, the more often you volunteer your time to others, the more readers you meet and the more readers will get to know you.
Need another reason? How about it's just plain rude and egotistical? Yeah...I thought that one would reach you.
For tips on writing and fun articles, visit Gina's Articles For Writers page: http://www.ginaardito.com/ArticlesforWriters.html
Posts
2 comments:
I can't imagine ever having the level of ego necessary to behave like this, but if I ever do, smack me, huh?
The one thing I've always noticed about writers as a rule is that they LOVE to share what they know. There are some who don't, who are too selfish to realize there's room on the shelf for more than one author. And there are those too bashful to believe they have anything to share. Then there are the ones you describe - passive/aggressively making themselves important by making themselves inaccessible. Ummm, cutting off your nose, much?
Sad but true, Trish. Some authors are truly shy and that's a hurdle they should try to overcome. Thankfully, the passive-aggressive ones are few and they don't last long because they swallow too much of their own bitterness to survive in this line of work.
Post a Comment