Pay it Forward
- Dee Pardo
- Apr 13, 2017
- 3 min read
As a novice writer there is still so much for me to learn and become knowledgeable about becoming a well recognized author. As I begin to navigate this new chapter, I have made myself become a researcher of sorts. I have trolled the internet for the plethora of resources available to someone learning how to become a part of this world. It is even more intimidating if you do not have the financial stability to directly connect with agencies or companies that provide services to do the navigation for you. If you have a love of writing and want to share your creativity with the world, here is what I have learned and found thus far.
1. Wattpad Wattpad is a FREE online community for writers and readers alike. Publish your stories and share among a community of people who are lovers of literary works. This is a great beginning for someone who enjoys writing and hopes to strengthen their craft. However, this community is not limited only to new writers as there are well know authors who share special works in this forum. Writers from all levels are encouraged to share their creations. It's really a win/ win for everyone.
2. I can't afford to do this...
Believe it or not yes you can! There are a few no cost or low cost options to get started. Some with contest options with publishing contract prizes. Some that I have found but not limited to are:
> KDP Select and Kindlescout a sub entity of KDP Select
> Kobo
> iBooks
3. Claim your work!
I was so fortunate to stumble across a blog advising for new authors to make sure you claim your work. Thus far, I have found that you can confirm your literary work through two popular platforms: Amazon and Goodreads. By claiming your page you can ensure no one poses as you and you can build your fan base by connecting through your individual page.
4. Stay Connected
This will be an ongoing and tireless process, especially if your building your audience. But ALL worth it. Staying connected is imperative. No one knows who you are, so here is your way to get them engaged and keep them engaged. The first step is by claiming your work. Through amazon and goodreads readers can follow you, asks you questions, read your bio and get a sense of the author behind the work. Have a social media presence and create a website. Your first audience will be your friends and family. Utilize them to vouch for you and they in turn help spread the word outside of your social media presence. Encourage your audience to leave a review for you. The biggest complement an author can receive is a review. The feedback left by a reader helps to share the readers experience and allow new readers to connect. Would you go to a restaurant if they didn't have a review? Think about it, it works the same way. Some platforms to stay connected are:
Send Emails: Mailchimp or ConstantContact there is also an option to manage mailing lists
Social Media: As with the options above, choose what works for you. Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Pinterest, YouTube, etc. Whatever feels right to you.
5. Additional Resources
Writing Support
goodreads (find affordable editors)
Graphic Design
Protect Yourself
I hope you found this information helpful and it's
helped to put some things into perspective. And don't forget to Pay It Forward!
Do a good deed for people in need and, when thanked, to ask them to repay the good to someone else.
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