Goodreads asked Timothy Wahl:

What’s your advice for aspiring writers?

Timothy Wahl Cynical answer but truthful: It's who you know. Remember all it takes is ONE. All things being equal--that your good is well-written - being "good" is not enough. You need a platform. Most of us are not the son or daughter of an A-lister, whose namesake can go far in getting you your first contract. So, with respect to writers who, like me are obscure, hardworking and relatively poor--don't spend too much energy in these groups. These people are needy and want the same thing you do. Join groups where people who are not writers necessarily go. Try, for example, groups such as but not limited to Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, Junior (or regular) Chamber of Commerce, PTA. Volunteer as a board member is an association of your choosing. Become a volunteer for social justice or other causes that gets a lot of media attention and attracts politicians, movie stars - people and organizations hungry for steady exposure as being "corporate(ly) reposnisible. Become active, be friendly and helpful--and by all means sincere in your objectives to represent the mission of your organization. Like "Field of Dreams," the one person you need to put your book out there will come to YOU, not you chasing after them. Be mindful of Dale Carnegie's words of wisdom about influencing people: "Make the other guy think that it's his idea." Or, think of it like this, whether you are a man or woman, it's like courtship. A turn off to a prospective partner is to come across as needy. It's the one who is (or seems to be) care-free who's the honey that attracts.

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