Conduct becoming a writer

Once upon a time authors were mysterious beings, recognizable to their readers only by a black and white photograph on the inside flap of a hardback cover, or occasionally at book signings. The internet has changed all that. Most writers have websites, Facebook pages, blogs and twitter accounts; we are there to be found by anyone who is interested.

We also have the opportunity to disgrace ourselves like never before, achieving instant fame of a really, really undesirable kind (see this Guardian article on poor Jacqueline Howett).  Here are a few things I've learned about appearing on the internet...
It's not good to get into rows on forums. If things start to get heated I wander off and do some useful task like the washing up. I don't have to have the last word.About reviews - even the wrongest person from Planet Wrong is entitled to his opinion.Bear in mind that people you write about will come across your remarks.No one needs to know what your politics are, or your religion come to that. It may put them off, even if you aren't National Front and Wicca (with apologies to all witches).Being polite and helpful is a Good Thing. It's also good for your image.Moaning and grumbling are to be avoided.What would you add?
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Published on February 12, 2013 10:06
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message 1: by K.A. (new)

K.A. Jordan I agree - I just wish I could always walk away when I should. :)


message 2: by Lexi (new)

Lexi Revellian What happened to my bullet points? Huh.

I think anyone who's brought up a teenager acquires self-restraint skills that can be transferred handily to the internet. I'm no more serene than originally, just better at not rising to the bait.


message 3: by K.A. (new)

K.A. Jordan I was such a horrible teen that I never had kids. Never wanted to be on the reciving end of the 'tude. :)

However, I worked customer service and learned to keep my mouth shut that way. LOL


message 4: by Lexi (new)

Lexi Revellian I used to refer to my daughter as a 'dangerous alien from Planet Stroppy'. It was hard going, but she's terrific now.

Long ago there was a John Cleese series on business, and in the customer service one he said, "You never win an argument with a customer." This is profoundly true, and something I remember in my business.


message 5: by K.A. (new)

K.A. Jordan Very true - you have to be careful with customers.


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