Are You Building a Body of Work?

The conversation happened years ago yet I recall it like
yesterday. I learned a guiding principle for my writing life in publishing. I
was on the faculty of a writers' conference which no longer exists. Along with
another faculty member who was a literary agent, we were on our way to the event. I had written
a few books and been a magazine editor but not worked inside a publishing
company. It was early on in my writing career. This agent advised, “Be building
a body of work.” It was sound and profound counsel.



Many writers are focused on a book or several books but not
understanding the need to build a body of work. That work appears in many
places—including books—but also in magazines and online. It is not built
overnight but in a continual stream of publishing.



Last week I was speaking with a new potential author for Morgan James
Publishing. During our conversation. she commented on my digital footprint.
What happens when someone “googles” your name? What do they find on the first
few pages? Your digital footprint is part of your body of work as a writer. It's
something built over time and with consistent action—like these weekly articles
for The Writing Life. Your
faithful actions will pay off in the long run.



While on this important topic of building a body of work, let me
include several other important reminders for every author.



1. Our words are eternal. Recently I read this article from
publisher and long-term friend Dan Balow about the lasting element of words
online. As you post on social media, blog or write magazine
articles or books, it's good to be reminded these words are captured
online forever—a very long time.



2. Your reputation matters. Whether you are
conscious of it or not, each interaction with others is building your reputation
in the publishing community. From my years in this business, good communication
is important and the smallest details can matter.



3. Consistency counts. As you work in the
writing field, make sure you do the basics like return phone calls and answer
emails. These simple business practices will pay off for you in the long run and
help you build an even larger body of work.



How are you building a body of work in the publishing world? Let
me know in the comments below.



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How can you build a body of work in publishing? This article highlights key points in the process. (ClickToTweet)