Hello everyone. I hope all is well with you. I’m worried about the Floridians as Hurricane Irma makes her way toward them. I hope they all make it to safety, and for the friends and family who’ve decided to stay or can’t make it out, my prayers and thoughts are with you.
Photo via Visualhunt
It’s during these scary events that we see our true natures coming out. People forget about their prejudices and the barriers come down. Everyone helps everyone else no matter race, political affiliation, or religious bent. It would be so nice if we could do that all the time, wouldn’t it?
Sigh. That’s one of the things I love about the writing community. I’ve met so many awesome people who’re willing to lend a hand. I’ve participated in this contest where successful authors offer to be a mentor to writers who are on the path to publication. It’s an incredible event. If you’re an aspiring author I’d recommend getting involved. The contest is called Pitch Wars.
Photo credit: suzyhazelwood via VisualHunt / CC BY-NC
To learn more about it. Stop on over to Brenda Drake’s blog. She’s the one who developed this growing event. There were more than three thousand entries this year. Here’s the link: http://www.brenda-drake.com/pitch-wars/
The thing about this contest is there are groups of authors that have formed and they’re supporting each other by offering critique partners, beta readers, and just general reinforcement to the potential mentees. Everyone wants each other to win. It’s amazing to see all the encouragement.
If you’re an aspiring author, I’d also recommend establishing a presence on Twitter. I’ve found there are many literary agents who hang out there, and it’s a great way to make a connection. Who knows, maybe you’ll get an agent that way. Stranger things have happened.
Photo via Visual Hunt
There are also chats on Twitter. All you need to do is follow the hashtags #askagent, #querytip, and #ontheporch and you’ll find professionals in the industry to ask questions and get advice from. I’ve met other aspiring authors, editors, and agents this way. Twitter is an awesome avenue for making connections.
There’s another hashtag that I’ve found extremely helpful and that’s #MSWL.
Agents use this hashtag to tweet their manuscript wishlist. We’ve never been so in touch with the gatekeepers of the publishing industry. In my opinion, this is the best time to be a writer. There are so many opportunities to make connections. So it’s important to hone your craft, you never know when opportunity will knock on your door.
How about you? Do you have any tips you’d like to share with the writing community? Leave a comment. I’d love to hear from you!
What a pitty i read that pitch wars was only open a few days in August
Yes, it was. But it was an awesome contest. I’d get ready for it next year. They also have a #Pitmad contest where you tweet a pitch for your MS and agents will like your tweet if they’re interested and then you query them. I believe there’s another one in December. 🙂
Ohhh December sounds good. 😘
Yes. It’s worth a shot!
I read about it too late and pressed send too early… *sigh* never mind i will be ready next time. X Be safe in Florida and Georgia your friends and my family.
Hi Lisa, I, like you, have found a very supportive community around both #pItmad and #pitchwars. I think Brenda Drake and her staff, Heather Cashman in particular, work hard to facilitate a positive community. Just like Suzanne and Em in BUYB, how the leader sets the tone matters. I remember one incident in particular that still gives me chills, and the way Brenda handled it was simply beautiful.
Writers are a very supportive bunch! I’m so glad you gave these great avenues a shout out!
Thanks for stopping by, Angela! Brenda and her crew are definitely true professionals! 🙂
Hi Lisa! Thanks for the twitter tips. I’m not the most computer literate writer, sadly. I’ve been slowing wading into twitter but quickly become overwhelmed! I’m trying to take small steps, though, and BUYB is forcing me to (like yesterday’s twitter share). I’ve only recently started writing seriously, and like you, I’ve found many established authors who are willing to mentor those of us who are just starting out. It’s so appreciated!
Great tips for another new blogger here. My mind is still swirling with all of the social media connections in the writing world. So, having some guidance is most appreciated. Thank you, Lisa!
Hi Lisa,
I appreciate learning new hashtags, but do you think they apply to me? I blog about blogging tips.
Janice
Probably not, Janice. They’re geared more toward writers. 🙂
Thanks for answering my question!
You’re welcome! Thanks for stopping by! 🙂
Great advice will be checking out Brenda Drake blog. Know I should be more proactive with my writing
It’s a good time to be a writer! 🙂
Thanks for the information. I’m looking forward to the December event!
You’re welcome!