One of the FZ readers made a comment that inspired this post. They talked about the connections that are often made in this field–especially online. I have to agree that it is a pretty amazing thing, and that I have touched and been touched by many people in this way since beginning my writing journey.
I write music reviews, and have often had an artist come back with an e-mail that really made my day. It is always unexpected–and always appreciated. I’ve also had people I have written about for an article tell me they have been very moved by my words. I’ve made some wonderful connections with people through this blog.
Think about it….what online connections have you made that have either given you a real lift, resulted in a friendship–or perhaps even gotten you a job? I’m sure I am not alone in having made super contacts with writers, editors, artists and others through my online activities. The writer’s job board I frequent most often (Absolute Write) has actually found me connecting so strongly with certain writers that we have also become close friends. How great is that?
I’d love to hear other writers stories of online connections…
Is there something in particular that moved you? That you recall as a special memory? That you’d like to share? If so–I’d truly love to hear it…
If you think about it–this very post is an example of that type of connection–the result of a comment from a reader–thanks!
A number of comments made at a quirky social networking site (no, not MySpace) actually got me some jobs interviewing writers in live chats. The two main perks were getting free books and discovering how and why writers wrote specific books.
While seemingly a small thing and done for free, it also got me a book contract, eventually, through connections made from that site and others. I’m working on the book now. It is not a vanity press book, just to be clear about that. I won’t go into the pros and cons of those books but I’m pretty sure writers have varying opinions about them.
A book review was glimpsed by an author who later contacted me. That netted me an entire chapter in the writer’s next book, an editing job and a blurb on the cover of another book.
Networking and connections come about in many ways. Reviewing books and/or films can be a wonderful way to network with other writers but only if the reviewer takes the job seriously. Readers know if a review is sincere or not and kissing up to authors at the risk of losing readers and one’s integrity is not a good idea. It is easy to tell which reviewers do that – if one hangs around book review sites long enough.
Those are just some of the connections I’ve made. Authors do write to me regularly to thank me for a review or even to note that my criticism was fair. A few get angry if I don’t like their books (that goes with the territory).
I agree w/ you on both the reviews and the sincerity….
I can’t tell you how many musicians have contacted me and said something along the lines of “you really took the time to try and understand my work”, or, “thanks for your insightful review–you really understood what I am trying to do”. Even any critiques are usually (usually, not always) appreciated.
Thanks jcorn–it sounds like you have really had some interesting connections!
It has been a pleasure and I hope more people chime in about their connections. You are getting me hooked on this blog 😉
I’m glad you’re getting hooked!