This morning I spoke to the members of The Lilac City Rochester Writers about "how to get your name in print." This felt a daunting task as this is a group comprised of multi-published authors. What in the heck was I going to tell them? I mean, I have yet to pen my novel (although I do finally have a novel idea -- it includes lighthouses, a ghost and an antique dealer) and here I was giving them advice. Gulp!
I imparted my vast and oh-so-impressive knowledge upon the masses (insert self-deprecating laughter here!) Truly, though I shared about blogging on my own blog, visiting the blogs of others, and yes, giving away your writing for free if it will garner you some bylines and experience. I still write for free for some sites and publications because I love what I do. Check out Coffeehouse For Writers, where I have written a weekly Writing Perc for the past three years.
Bottom line, when you're just starting out, you need to get your name out there in inventive ways. Write a Letter to the Editor on an article that was recently published, visit blogs on topics you're interested in, find a magazine that you'd really like to see your name in and take a chance and pitch an article. Also, places like The Examiner is looking for people with a passion for a particular topic in the city in which they live.
To get known, to garner clips and bylines, you need to "put yourself out there." But always remember, no matter what you write, put your best work forward -- always -- whether in a blog post on your own site or on others.
Now, stop reading and get writing!
Comments