How do I get better as a writer?

How to I improve my professionalism as a writer?

How do I quit looking like an amateur writer?

**You can either watch today’s blog post, or scroll to keep reading! **

If your middle school years were anything like mine, the cafeteria was a dangerous place – uncomfortable at best, heartbreaking at worst. Where to sit? What to say? Heck it was difficult to figure out who was making the rules. And just when you thought you figured it all out, everything changed.

When I first entered the writing world, it felt a bit like walking back into the middle school lunchroom. Even if I knew the names of the people sitting at the tables, they definitely didn’t know mine. Worse than that, we didn’t even seem to be speaking the same language. I’m not sure how I had the guts, but I usually dove in head first anyway.

No joke, I once introduced myself to an international bestselling author at an author’s only event. I had, unfortunately, arrived to town late, missing the presenter packet pick up by five minutes, thus failing to receive my “you belong here” lanyard. You know… the one that clearly announces to everyone that you are in fact in the right place, instead of say… fan-girling/crashing/lost. It was my first ever book and author festival as a speaker. Oh, how I wanted that lanyard!! But rather than sulk in the corner, I got a cocktail, went to the bathroom for quick self-pep-talk and introduced myself to the only person in the room whose name I knew. International bestselling author, Nickolas Butler. Bless him, he small talked with me about what I was reading and writing while his buddies just stared at the awkward new girl.

I look back on times like that and admire my own bravery, but also cringe. I was such a rookie, and my lack of industry knowledge and vocabulary labeled me for the amateur I was. I’m not ashamed of the girl I used to be. We all have to start somewhere, right? But part of my mission as an educator turned authorpreneur is to help writers escape that awkward amateur phase faster, so they can graduate to bigger and better things.

So, today I want to offer you six rookie mistakes to quit making. Are you ready to move up and sit with the big kids? Good. Grab a pencil and get ready to take some notes because here we go.

1. Stop talking about the length your manuscript in pages. In the publishing industry length is measured and discussed in word count. Also, you should know there are guidelines for how long each type of book, genre, and age level text should be. Yes, there are exceptions, but as a newbie, you should stick to these highly recommended suggestions.

2. Publishers, Agents and Editors use Microsoft Word. Do not send anyone a Google Doc. Yes, I use Google personally and within my academic professional life, but when it comes to writing, you should ALWAYS use Microsoft Word. I will admit that Apple makes a nice machine and you can get Microsoft Office on a Mac, but I have (and love and would recommend) getting/using a Microsoft product. I use a Microsoft Surface Pro 4.

3. Create and use an email address that is your name. (first.last@email.com) Just that simple. As cute and clever as WriterGirl83@yahoo.com is, it isn’t professional. It also doesn’t help people remember your name, which is the ultimate goal. Email addresses are free. Get one that presents you as a professional.

4. In the traditional publishing world, authors do not find their own illustrators, the publishers do. Asking how to find pictures or an illustrator for your book instantly labels you as a rookie. Don’t do it.

5. Don’t use the title “aspiring writer”. I also feel “writer” is a better title than “pre-published author” or “aspiring author”. You write. You are a writer. Leave it at that. Once you are published you can switch your title to “author”.

6. You don’t need to copyright your work before submitting it to agents and publishers. Again, asking about it makes you stand out like a newbie. Don’t do it.

Follow these suggestions and you’ll take a few steps forward in your authorpreneur education. Continue to educate yourself through blog posts, podcasts, courses, and eventually when we are allowed to gather in groups to discuss nerdy things together… conferences. :)

Be brave. Ask questions. There are many writerly groups and people that are very kind and will be happy to show you the ropes. SCBWI is one of the best. If you find yourself in a snobby/snarky/cocky/condescending writing circle, consider finding new mentors who will help and guide you kindly. Maybe your town has a writing club, or your community college has some great offerings. Check them out. Attend a retreat. Or, if you are feeling brave, sit at the table with the cool kids and just listen for a bit. And finally, ask questions. (Did I say that one already? It’s an important one! P.S. This is a safe space. Drop your question in the comments below or email me! I’m happy to help!)

In the near future, I’ll be releasing a course that will be another great option for moving your writing career forward. If you are interested, click here to join my email list so you can stay in the loop. (Bonus, those who join my email list get a free PDF download with 43 story starters and prompts along with a list of several paying submission calls.) Finally, check back next week for a Writing World Vocabulary Road Map, so that once you do take a seat at the table, you’ll know what everyone is talking about!

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