Celebrities often give back to their fans or help another artist along the way. As a writer, I desire to do that too. Although I’ve published five books and more to come, I’m certainly not a celebrity. But I find it important to give back.
I share what I’ve learned along my writing journey.
If I help you get better at writing, get a step up on the publication ladder, I don’t hurt my chances for publication. That is how it has been for me. Before I was published, I always shared information about writing craft with others. I continue to do that. When I met my agent at a conference, he asked around before offering a contract. Many of the staff and conferences knew me. That weight heavily on winning him over.
A way for writers to grow.
Giving back is essential not only from the business end of our career, but also for our mental and spiritual health as well. The more we give, the more returns to us in one form or another. And honestly, I feel less alone.
When I’ve encouraged another writer along the way, my heart is encouraged to continue on my writing journey. It is a bumpy road with unexpected detours, and stepping out to help another makes the road a bit straighter.
Here are some ways to give back
Book Reviews
Even if a book is not in a genre you usually read, give it a read and post a review. I’ve written reviews for two vampire books over the years, a few thrillers, sci-fi, and some YA books. My TBR list is predominantly historicals, romance and mysteries. But I’ve discovered some interesting authors and fun stories beyond my preferred genres. Authors need reviews: 25, 50, 100 and beyond are magic numbers. They send Amazon the message to share the author’s books as a suggestion to other readers of similar books. Readers read reviews to decide if they want to read it.
Share your knowledge
Whatever you learn along the way, share with those just starting out. As a fiction writer, there are so many craft things that can make or break a story. Sharing what I’ve learned helps me nail the concept in my mind. I recommend books, courses and websites to any novice who asks.
Share leads
What contests do you like to enter? Is there a favorite resource you used to find magazines to submit to? Did you hear of an agent looking for new clients or a publisher interested in acquiring a specific genre? Share that information. They will do the same for you in the future.
Share encouragement
A few atta-boys and you-go-girls go a long way to keep a fellow-writer from derailing their career or quitting all together. Encouragement can give them the courage to pitch an editor or sign up for a class that might change their life.
Give your books away
I’ve given my books as prizes for fund-raisers and offered them to the libraries and other book venues. The pay back is people will get to know my name and are introduced to my books.
Giving-back or paying-it-forward can not only help other writers take the next step but also bless you in the process. Your help-others attitude is a marketing piece that gets around by word of mouth and publishers may choose you over another writer. Why? Because you will support the other authors in their brand, be a team player and that goes a long way to help grow their brand and your sales.
Do you have any suggestions for paying-it -forward?
