The Ultimate in Networking
by Alex J. Cavanaugh, @AlexJCavanaugh 
While writing itself is usually a solitary venture, everything else we need to accomplish as authors is not. We need input from critique partners, advice on publishing, assistance with marketing, and encouragement. To accomplish that, we need to network with others.
There are many great ways to connect and find other writers: blogging, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Sometimes we’re lucky and we find a group of writers. One that is active and networking with one another. Perhaps it’s a growing group that’s spreading to other platforms. That’s a big plus, as with a large group, we can make a lot of quality connections.
When I first began writing, it was just me. I wasn’t online and I wasn’t involved in any writing groups. It wasn’t until I signed my first contract and was forced to venture online that I realized what I was missing. Those connections are so important!
I’m fortunate to be involved in what I believe is the ultimate networking group – the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. Connecting writers through several platforms and with a hashtag of #IWSG on Twitter, it’s swelled to over two thousand members in just three years. And we have four ways for writers and authors to connect:
IWSG monthly blog posts–members post the first Wednesday of every month, discussing their insecurities, needs, solutions, and words of encouragement for others.
IWSG website–a database of databases for writers. We list close to a thousand sites that will benefit writers in areas such as writing tips, querying, self-publishing, contests, and more. We also update with fresh, new information each week, bringing in industry experts every Wednesday. (Including the amazing Elizabeth S. Craig!)
IWSG Facebook group–for connecting, learning, and sharing. We have three themed days–Motivational Mondays, Wow it’s Wednesday, and News & Promo Friday–and members are encouraged to get involved.
IWSG Critique Circle–a Facebook group for connecting critique partners.
Those four groups give writers the opportunity to find answers, tips, critique partners, support, and lasting friendships. Members benefit from the connections and the fresh ideas. And just as important, they are recharged when drained.
With over a hundred contributors, The Insecure Writer’s Support Group Guide to Publishing and Beyond is a product of that networking. It covers three main topics–writing, publishing, and marketing. Not only is it a great resource, it’s yet another way for writers to connect.
When I started this group three years ago, I had no idea it would grow so quickly and so large. We receive many messages of gratitude as well as success stories. For me, it’s not just a great resource and networking opportunity–it’s the ultimate way to give back to the writing community!
If you’re looking to connect, we invite you to join us. Either way, The Insecure Writer’s Support Group Guide to Publishing and Beyond is our gift to you.
Alex J. Cavanaugh
http://alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com/
http://www.insecurewriterssupportgrou...
http://twitter.com/AlexJCavanaugh
Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design and graphics. He is experienced in technical editing and worked with an adult literacy program for several years. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games. Online he is the Ninja Captain and founder of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. He’s the author of Amazon Best-Sellers CassaStar, CassaFire, and CassaStorm. His next book, Dragon of the Stars, comes out next April. The author lives in the Carolinas with his wife.
The Insecure Writer’s Support Group Guide to Publishing and Beyond
ISBN 9781939844088
235 pages, Free!
Tapping into the expertise of over a hundred talented authors from around the globe, The IWSG Guide to Publishing and Beyond contains something for every writer. Whether you are starting out and need tips on the craft of writing, looking for encouragement as an already established author, taking the plunge into self-publishing, or seeking innovative ways to market and promote your work, this guide is a useful tool. Compiled into three key areas of writing, publishing, and marketing, this valuable resource offers inspirational articles, helpful anecdotes, and excellent advice on dos and don’ts that we all wish we knew when we first started out on this writing journey.
Available –
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