Writers need to network

Thanks to Steve Grove for his question:

"Almost every author starting out has no connections nor influence on the industry on either side of the border. They also have no marketing ability nor understanding of an industry that changes from year to year….How important is the networking – about getting to know the right people?!"

Steve, I believe networking is absolutely vital for several reasons. The bottom line is that no matter what field we might be in, none of us ever know what we don't know. Think of a scientist working away in his own little laboratory thinking he's making huge progress, while other scientists are actually light years ahead of him. The same is true for writers.

We need to be connected with other writers and editors, too. Preferably working with them – bouncing ideas off each other and challenging each other. That's why I belong to a number of writers organization and I've attended quite a few conferences and conventions.

But you want to be with writers who know more than you do, and not only in a group where you may be the wisest one. Ideally, have more than one groups – one where you're primarily  a learner, one with people at about the same level as you, and one where you can pass on what you've learned to newer writers.

What I feel many newer writers are missing is an objective, professional reader who can advise them about their writing and about what they need to do next. They've probably gone as far as they can go on their own, and their peers, or perhaps their family and friends, are telling them their work is wonderful, but they really need the opinion of someone who is a few steps ahead of them. Someone who can tell them what they don't know. It might be something related to the actual writing or it might be related to getting published or promoting yourself. None of us know everything we need to know – especially if we haven't had contacts in the writing field. Even if you have to pay for that advice, it's usually worth it. The trick is to find the right person. And networking will help you do that.

There's always more you can learn. My first book was published in 1991, and when I went to edit it in 1999, I was appalled that it had actually been published as it was. I'm sure if I edited it today I'd be once more appalled by all the work needed – because of everything I've learned since 1999.

And then there's the need to have relationships with editors, agents, etc. Not because you need something from them, but because they're people who have similar interests. And you want to be included in the group if possible, preferably participating, but even sitting on the fringes learning all you can is better than not being included at all. (As an introvert, I find this the most difficult part of writing. I so don't do small talk!) 

So, yes, you totally need to be involved with other people in the same field. Although writing may seem like a solitary occupation, it really isn't. Networking plays a huge role.