I get this question all the time. Sometimes it comes from new writers who don’t see the need to build a platform when they are struggling to simply write. Sometimes it comes from seasoned writers who aren’t interested if there isn’t a check attached. Sometimes it comes from writers who are curious – with all of my deadlines, why do I bother? Here are the top 3 reasons:
- Writing is solitary. That’s okay with me because I’m an introvert. That said, I can get carried away with the whole introversion thing. My blog is one way to connect with my fellow writers. I’ve actually made some really good friends blogging. When a paid blogging gig dried up, we started our own blog, PrayPower4Today, so that we could keep working together.
- Web presence. More than once, I’ve been talking to an editor about a potential job only to discover that she had the nerve to Google me. My blog shows dedication (I post 5 days per week, rain or shine), professionalism (no rants allowed) and voice (I am totally and completely me). My blog serves as a place for people to find me.
- Processing Ideas. As a writer, I tend to process my thoughts by writing about them. My latest book project has put me through the ringer. I just didn’t feel that I had a handle on the right tone, I wasn’t 100% certain about my focus, and my deadline is fast approaching. Then I wrote a blog post on how to get unstuck when you’re attempting to write nonfiction and the words won’t flow. The answer? Focus on topic, goal and the reader. As I finished the post, I realized I had also hit on how to get unstuck in terms of my latest book project. Post-it prompt in hand, I returned to my rewrite and the manuscript has really come together.
Blogging helps me connect with my peers and editors as well as work through my own writing problems. That’s why I take the time to do it.
--SueBE
SueBE teaches our course, Writing Nonfiction for Children and Young Adults. The next section start May 4, 2015.
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