Gain Credibility As a Writer
Any writer who is looking to build a successful career must gain authority within the writing and publishing industry. Credibility assures customers that a writer is an established and respected professional. If you are searching for ways to gain credibility as a writer, consider the following steps.
Steps
- Write every day. The best way to become a credible writer is to be a better writer, and the best way to improve your writing is to write every day. Write in a journal. Search the internet for sites that accept submissions from freelance writers. Local newspapers and magazines may also be venues to look into for freelance work. A writer gets established by building a portfolio of their published work.
- Improve your writing skills by expanding your knowledge. A credible writer is someone who has a thorough knowledge of their craft. Understanding the entire process, such as writing rules and styles is imperative in this industry. For this reason, you may choose to take writing classes and workshops in various areas of writing. As well, attend conventions and conferences. Expose yourself to a variety of writing styles, as this will help you decide what writing style or genre best suits you.
- Create a blog to promote your skills. If you write a blog focusing on the art of writing, you can build credibility with every entry. As your reputation grows, potential clients can go to your blog and read your work. A blog can be an extension of your portfolio, demonstrating your skills as a writer. The editing, proofreading, and content of your blog must be flawless. Just like a blog can build your credibility as a great writer, it can damage it with a single typo.
- Association with an established writer. If you are fortunate enough to know an established writer, perhaps you could ask them to provide some content for your blog. Then, once you built your own reputation, perhaps you can submit content for their site. As a skilled writer, you may be invited to write for other blogs. Write for as many as you can and expand your readership. This, in turn, will add to your reputation.
- Use social media to get your name recognized. There are many opportunities to get your name out there. Sign up with Twitter, Facebook, and other social media sites. When you build your reputation, you could use these forums to offer useful writing tips. When you are a published author, you can use these forums to announce news about upcoming books or conferences you will be attending. Post as much as you can online, and on printed media.
- Never submit anything but your best work. Word of mouth can make or break your credibility as a writer. If you do a great job, then you may be given further projects for the same client, as well as being referred to others. Only take work that you know you can do well and that adds to your reputation. Always, always, always write your own content and work within realistic deadlines.
- Enjoy writing! Putting pen to paper to write is very rewarding. To know that readers are picking up your work, or turning on their computer to read your blog brings a feeling like no other. On the other hand, do not forget to get some fresh air once in a while and take the time to 'smell the roses'.
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