Writer, Have Some Manners!

Writer, Have Some Manners!

If you are aspiring to be a successful writer, and you interact with other writers and readers, please consider incorporating the following techniques for respectful engagement. They will help you be taken seriously as a writer, as well as a human, and grow a following for your work. People’s time is valuable. We’re all vying for a piece of the pie. We all want attention for our genius, but really, it’s not a competition. Being supportive of others works for you, not against you.

Without authentic engagement and reciprocation, the benefits gained from your work are short-lived. The information provided in the links below will tell you how to gain a reader’s attention positively, maintain it, and grow your platform successfully for longevity.

The following articles were written by me as a way to encourage you to engage with your readers, and why a writer would want to. They also convey some techniques to remember in following the “norms” of proper etiquette expected within the writing community if you wish to establish a welcome presence. Building a successful writing career takes a lot more effort than just writing and plunking your stuff out there. It takes deliberate interaction with people on some level. To build something worthwhile and long-term, those efforts and interactions need to be authentic and not rude.

Choosing to become a writer is typically not a get-rich-quick scheme. It takes time and consistency to build it into a sustainable career. Although the Vocal writing platform is most likely not going to earn you monetary riches, it offers a multitude of priceless benefits to the aspiring writer, as well as the potential to earn financial rewards. The article above expresses my take on it’s value.

Once you choose a platform, or join a writing group, or attempt to build an audience, you will want to understand the meaning and benefits of being a good literary citizen. This is the most crucial of all the concepts listed here, as it really addresses all. It boils down to common sense. In our race to success, we forget that sometimes.

When you plan to share your written work with the world, you open yourself up to criticism and feedback. Here are some tips for developing a mindset to interpret it in a constructive way, as well as how to offer it in a polite way to others.

It’s not all about you. Consideration of others is a win-win. Essentially what reciprocity means in this case, is that you will find success in letting others know their contributions are valued.

The quickest way to turn-off and alienate your audience is through Link-bombing. The above article explains what it is and why you want to avoid using it. Just don’t.

And one more article just to remind yourself why you got into writing in the first place. It probably wasn't initially for seeking financial success. Most of us who write probably have dreams of becoming a great and successful author. It can be done, but it takes focus, time and then there's the maatter of the heart.

In Conclusion

Maybe instead of trying to gain attention with a “me, me, me” attitude, creating a spectacle of yourself by shouting and jumping around, think about developing symbiotic and long-lasting relationships, with trust and transparency. The writing community is relatively small. You’ll find more success by becoming a valuable member. That means giving more than you take, and being supportive of your peers.

Basically, don’t be a nuisance, or an arrogant snob. Be human. Be authentic. Cheer for others, so they can cheer for you.

Thank you for reading! As a writer, what’s your favorite way to engage with potential audiences?

Here is the link to my Vocal profile.