Making Social Networking Sites Work for You August 22, 2009

I find writing opportunities are plentiful in NYC’s subway.  During the train ride to work, a woman sitting next to me handed me her business card.  It said Mary Kay – the skin care company.  And while she proceeded to inquire about the makeup and skin care products I used, I couldn’t help but stare at the woman who sat directly across from me.  The 20-something woman  meticulously applied primer, foundation, liner, mascara, and lipstick for twenty-minutes.  I was impressed with the skill and steadiness of her hands.  The train was not a smooth ride as it navigated through the tunnels, and screeched against metal tracks to halt at each station.  She managed through this, plus the bumps of passengers sandwiching her as they swayed to the motion of the train. 

I kindly declined the woman’s offer to attend a Mary Kay event (my skin care regimen is on the simpler side: my cosmetics case includes lip gloss and chapstick and I use only one product line for my skin care).  As she thanked me for listening, she expressed that she was looking to boost her business with more clients.  I wished her good luck and went back to reading my book.  Then, I realized something.  Why didn’t she pitch the young woman sitting across from us — at least to give her a business card. This was clearly a case of inappropriate marketing.  She wouldn’t get a sale from me.  But, she avoided targeting the obvious makeup product junkie . 

I asked her if she had tried social networking sites (SNSs).  She replied that she was not associated with any and didn’t know why they might be useful.  I offered her some advice about using these sites to reach out to more people as well as to link to people who may have great marketing tips. 

The opportunities for social networking sites are endless and can be tailored to suit your needs.  Though I started writing family-service pieces (e.g. PTA moms, kids and science, family-oriented activities) my writing interests have taken a turn toward more health and medical pieces.  With a busy schedule working at a medical publishing company, freelance work as a science research assistant for a writer, and pitching article ideas, I found that Twitter is the best SNS for me (along with a few writing community websites).  The snippets of information I get from science, medical and health websites help to keep me in the loop about what’s new in the industry.  And I also “friend” magazines that I’d like to write for.  This helps because if I’m thinking of an idea to pitch and notice it’s the topic du jour among the magazine’s tweets, it saves me a lot of time pitching an idea that’s already been covered.  Bottom line: Use SNSs based on your objectives whether you’re trying to connect with other people you know; follow your favorite celebrities; find work opportunities; or increase visibility for your business. Just as social networking sites may help you, avoiding them can set limitations on your goals.  Here’s a brief overview of the various SNSs:

Facebook (FB)is a social site that’s great for connecting with people you know (e.g. old high school friends or acquaintances from an event).  You can post blogs, updates, pictures and more.  But proceed with caution.  If you happen to stumble across someone on FB who’s a recruiter at a company you’d love to work for I don’t send a friend request.  Check out the page first.  Is the person’s page set up with posts that are related to work issues and updates; or is it filled with friend posts and social information.  If it’s the former try sending the person a private message instead; otherwise, look for the person on LinkedIn or another professional networking site.

Twitteroffers subscribers a chance to post, share and find information relatively quickly. Through short bursts of 140 character posts people can check out what’s new with friends, organizations and more.  Certain sites like Tweetajob.com is a platform for recruiters to post job openings.  But, you should always do your homework before responding to any job offer.

LinkedIn isn’t the site you go to for a blast from the past.  It’s more of a networking site than a place to meet friends.  Of course, you may come across an old college roommate who’s a recruiter or in a position to refer you to someone else for a job .  However, this site is focused more on professionals looking for work. 

Ning.comis a social networking site that is associated with various industries and associations.  If you can’t find a match, Ning offers you an opportunity to create your own network for free.

While all these sites (and others) may be useful for networking to some degree, their effectiveness in helping you reach your career goals varies.  So it’s best to understand how each site works and whether or not it’s the best match for your objectives.  How do you use social networking sites?

How To Write a Short Bio April 20, 2009

The first time a magazine editor accepted my article I was ecstatic.  Then my health pitch for a baby article was accepted shortly after by a different magazine. I was stoked!  But, as I read the editor’s guidelines I noticed she mentioned a few things.  She said I would receive masthead credit (Yay!), a byline (Super!), and a two-three sentence bio (Yikes!).

A bio — what would I say about myself?!  After the panic set in, I took a chill pill and began brainstorming.  I didn’t have published clips yet.  And with no previously published clips, I was at a loss.  Thankfully, I came up with an idea pretty quickly.

The first thing I did was check out the magazine’s website to get a look at how other writer bios looked.  At first, I noticed that the authors were not only credentialed, but they had a lot of information included in their bios.  I didn’t panic because I remember reading that the magazine was open to new writers with great ideas and solid pitches (and “new” equaled me).  So, with a little more persistence I was able to find a couple of writer bios that included a simple sentence.  The sentence included where they’d written before and their area of interest.

Example: Jane Doe has written about women’s health issues for magazine X.

I decided to follow that format as well and not worry too much about my lack of abundant clips.  After all, every writer started without clips at one point, right?  Right.  I found many similar bios on their website that were simple and super-short (considering she asked for two or more sentences in the bio).  I realized that once my health piece came out for magazine number two, the first article would have already been published.  So, I included the first magazine’s name and submitted my lonely one sentence bio.  The editor was pleased with my article, she never mentioned my measly bio, and I’ve worked with her again since.  I’ve written a lot more since and wanted to share with other writers my how to advice on getting over writing about yourself (especially when you have limited writing experience).

• The Omniscient Point of View: Write your bio in the third-person because it sounds more professional than saying “I” all the time.  Reserve the first-person approach for your pitch letters when you’re describing your experience to an editor or agent.  When writing a bio, the third-person format sounds like someone else is writing about you and it comes off looking more polished.

• Check out the Doers: If you’re at a loss on how to start your bio whether it’s for your website, blog, book, or magazine article then just look at the experts for some direction.  Visit the library or bookstore and flip through magazines and books to get a sense for what works.  Book jackets are a great place to get ideas; you can find the bio in the back (usually with a picture of the writer).  Other places you can check out include Amazon.com and Google’s book search engine.  These online resources provide snippets of pages you can view which sometimes include the author’s bio.  Or you can just grab a few books from your own collection and read the bio’s of your favorite authors.

• Get Growing: So you’ve read some bios and realize that you don’t have anything that great.  You’ve been only writing for a few months and don’t have anything published.  Well, let me tell you that you probably have more than you realize.  Let’s say you’ve scored your first pitch for a scrapbooking or golfing magazine and you’ve never written anything before.  The fact that an editor said yes means your pitch was great.  Now, think about why you were interested in writing this particular subject to begin with.  For the scrapbooker, maybe it’s because for the past 5 years you’ve gone to scrapbooking conferences, run a home business making creative albums for customers or volunteer at a local YMCA teaching kids and adults scrapbooking activities.  Or maybe you’re a golfer in need of a bio to accompany you first article. Your bio should include the fact that you teach golf classes, work at a golf resort, or that you’ve been playing leisurely for several years.  The key is that you have experience and you need to highlight your strengths when writing your author bio.  It’ll show people why you’re capable of writing the article. The challenge of writing your first bio is overcoming the hurdle of not having any or a lot of experience.  Stay active in the writing world and realize that the more you pitch the more doors for writing opportunities will open up for you.  So get growing and write for a variety of publications.  It’s fine to pitch to the major players.  But, don’t forget to try out local and trade magazines — try college and university publications as well.  For the breakout novelist also pitch to smaller agencies or consider taking the self-publishing route.

• Be Interesting: Don’t just layout the facts about yourself.  Use engaging language and make yourself sound interesting — because you are. And if you don’t sound captivating then readers won’t think so either.  Let’s say you’re writing a piece about the health risks of spelunking or writing a book about the world of caves.  The chances are you’ve stepped into more caves than the average Joe.  When writing your bio share fun facts about yourself.

• Switch up Your Bio: Change your bio as your portfolio grows.  Don’t just cut and paste the same old stuff over and over again.  You’re evolving as a writer and you want to keep readers abreast of what you’ve been doing and the things to come.  Your bio should cater to the type of reader you’re writing for.  For instance, if your first book is for young children and you decide to write fiction book for teens tweaking your bio goes without saying.  For articles, you’ll want to keep your bios relevant — don’t include that you’ve written for AARP when you’re writing up your bio for a pregnancy magazine.

Writer bios are needed for a myriad of things such as press releases, websites, conferences, magazines and books. Remember it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process to write your bio.  If an editor or agent is willing to take you on then you’re doing something write — ahem, I mean right.  So, take a deep breath and think outside the box when writing your bio.  Be creative; include facts while staying interesting, and use a tone that makes you look professional and confident.

The moral of the story today: Don’t sweat the short stuff.

I’d love to hear your thoughts about writing bios and your tips on how to overcome writing a bio (especially if you’re a new writer).

Slowing Down March 4, 2009

“Slow down, slow down!  The job will be there when you get there.”  This morning, I heard a man say this to a woman as she brushed past him in the subway.  I watched the scene from behind and realized that his statement meant more to me than to the speedy woman who pushed her way through a few more people (she was probably already at her desk whizzing through her morning emails at work before I could even step out into the cold). 

I’ve had a fast paced week; everything and everyone seemed to be moving at warp speed.  Or, was it me moving at the speed of light?  The most frustrating part about the whole thing is that I’ve been working my butt off and I have yet to see the fruits of my labor – speed and all.  So, what gives?  My aggravation – I think – stems from the fact that I’ve handed over my last assignment two weeks ago and my recent pitches are probably floating around the inboxes of magazine editors (and hopefully not their email trash bins).  Anxiety and self-doubt were slowly finding there way into my psyche.  My energy level was rapidly declining as I found myself reluctant to research ideas, work on my novel, and follow-up on magazine query submissions.  Why bother?  I was working hard and doing a lot.  But, I didn’t see the results. 

Surprisingly, it was the words of a stranger that helped me to bolt from the dark side of second-guessing myself.  Though I know I will inevitably fall into that dark place again and again, what truly matters is how quickly I bounce back.  Today was all about slowing down and recognizing the things I have done and not what isn’t working or hasn’t happened for me.  I’m focusing more on the positive things I’ve done in 2009 so far.  Here are a few:

• Actively pitching ideas to local and national magazines.
• My visits to the bookstore and library have helped me identify and study a few new markets in both consumer and trade magazines; this helped me to steer clear of pitching ideas that were previously done by the publications. 
• I’ve been writing my first novel and even when I fall off my schedule or it seems like I won’t do any writing at all, I commit to writing for 30 minutes.

After taking a break today and shifting my focus on the pros rather than the cons I feel less tension within myself.  Slowing down to recognize your accomplishments will help rejuvenate your passions and stimulate your drive for success.  Though writing jobs may not be flowing at the moment, I want to be sharp and ready when they do show up – not wrapped up in uncertainty. 

When was the last time you slowed down to give yourself a pat on the back?

Four Reasons To Read Article Comments February 4, 2009

After I’ve read an article or blog post, I like to comment by thanking the author for a helpful piece, sharing my thoughts, or asking questions.  At times, what I’ve said has been found useful by other readers who also drop a line - which is great.  But the process I realize has been two-fold — a give and take situation — because I’ve also learned a few things by reading comments after a post.  The dialogue after an article is just as important to me as the piece itself.  Mainly because the author is writing from his (or her) perspective.  When readers chime in they may unload information that is diverse, helpful and new to both the author and other readers.

Now, I’m not promoting reading all comments; especially if there are many posted.  In that case, read the first few and then quickly scan the rest looking for links or a few words in CAPS that may catch your eye.

When it comes to reading the comment section here are my payoffs:

1. Learn something that wasn’t in the article: Maybe it’s the tip of the day, job hunting, or improving writing skills, whatever it is comments can provide a tremendous amount of information for readers.  And I’ve taken away some fabulous tips too.  But, reading the comment section of articles is an added bonus because I tend to find useful bits of information added by other readers.  For example, let’s just say there’s an article called “Six Great Places for Newbie Writers Online”.  Patrolling the comment section may reveal a seventh, maybe even an eight resource for new writers — score!
2. Twist the dialogue for a new take: Ideas for articles can be found everywhere if you’re in the mindset of looking for them.  The key is to create something fresh.  And reading the comment section of an article you found worthwhile may provide insight into your next piece – with your own spin, of course.
3. Minimize your own “legwork”: Sometimes articles can leave you wondering about a topic.  Before you venture off on your own research read the comments.  Readers may provide you with a good amount of information to help you get started.
4. Share your own perspective and gain new readers of your own: Whether you’re an expert or not, if you took the time to read the article then you may have an opinion or some advice.  Leaving a comment behind may just pique a reader’s or the author’s interest to check out your blog or website.  I know I’ve met some great people online by piping in and leaving behind my two cents.

Do you skip the comment section or do you scope it out in hopes of finding something new?  Think about that hidden pearl of wisdom.  It may just be tucked away between comments 8 and 10.

Web-stractions: Don’t Let Virtual Diversions Stop Your Writing January 22, 2009

While my writing year has started off on the right foot, I’ve been dealing with a lot of web-stractions (web-related distractions) lately.  For instance, earlier this month I was writing a scene for my novel and became stumped (one of my characters is the head chef of a Senegalese restaurant in Brooklyn).  Instead of letting the story flow I decide to stop writing and begin a quick Internet search on traditional Senegalese food.  That was my first mistake.  I was researching when I should have been writing.  It took one idea to push me into a completely different direction.  Now hang on tight because you’re about to join me for the rest of my virtual roller coaster ride.

As soon as I began searching for information on Senegalese cuisine I found loads of interesting stuff to use.  I ascended high in the web-straction roller coaster ride with a pile of information and newly created bookmarks.  Since I was already online I decide to check my email messages.  I spotted an email from my editor about a potential assignment and sent her a reply.  I did some twists and loops on my virtual ride as I looked up sources for a few other ideas.  At some point I hung upside-down for a while checking out my favorite blog sites before I headed back down to what I was initially doing.  What was I doing again?  Oh yeah, I was writing.

It’s amazing the amount of time I lost becoming sidetracked.  Right before my eyes my one-hour writing schedule became a three-hour ordeal.  Although I eventually met my daily goal it wasn’t without interruption which also created an unsteady writing flow.  So now I’m in the habit (at least doing my best) of dedicating my full attention to writing without engaging in web-stracting activities.  There’s time to surf the web after I’ve done what I’m supposed to be doing.

The Internet is a phenomenal playground of information right at our fingertips.  However, using the web ineffectively adversely effects my productivity.  So I had to tack on some ground – actually virtual – rules when I’m in writer mode.  Check them out:

1. Just write!  It’s a simple notion but very hard to do when an abundant source of information is just one click away.
2. I’ve created an accountability writing schedule.  It’s a calendar that I created using Gmail and I share it with a few people.  Its purpose is two-fold: They know when I’m unavailable because I’m writing and my friends keep me on track by checking in on my writing progress since they have access to what I should be doing.
3. To avoid checking facts and information online when I’m writing I just type “QM” (meaning question mark) in the space and return to them later.
   
4. Most importantly, I keep my Firefox web browser closed until I’m done writing.  That way I’m not tempted to check my email, read blogs or worse hear the chime of my instant messenger.

What’s your web-stracting kryptonite?  Do you have any tips on how to avoid distractions while writing?

Share them here.

Don’t Take the Bait: Avoid Writing Job Scams January 8, 2009

It’s been a juggling act trying to keep up with last year’s flurry of billion dollar bailouts.  To avoid sinking in this economic tide publishing giants like Simon & Schuster, Random House and MacMillan are reorganizing their staff – ahem, laying off employees – as their “congressional-like” bailouts.

As these staff writers turn to freelance work to stay afloat financially the writer’s job market is becoming even more saturated.  As competition for jobs among writers becomes fierce the freelance job market is an oasis of growing opportunity for scam artists.

While the Internet provides great opportunities for writers it is only scam-proof if you stay alert and look out for signs.  Last month, Freelance Writing Jobs posted a warning about another website using their logo and title.  While the perpetrating site has since changed their web page, it still promotes that they are “For ANYONE Who Can Write in English.” Hmm, that’s not a great selling point and it’s a major red flag.

Here are some big flake alerts.  When you see these signs don’t bother to think twice before exiting out immediately.

1. SPELLING ERRORS ON THE LOOSE: If the job posting has spelling and grammar errors you have to wonder about its legitimacy.  Good writing jobs seek skilled and professional writers.  The way an ad is written emulates not only the type of writers they want to hire, but it says a lot about the potential employer as well.
2. CRYPTIC CIA JARGON: Skip postings that sound vague; if after you’ve read the job description and you still can’t tell what you’ll be doing – skip it.  You’re not creating highly classified documents for the CIA or FBI.  Ambiguous job descriptions are headaches in disguise where you’ll find yourself doing more than you should for little or no pay.
3. WORK FIRST, THEN MAYBE WE’LL HIRE YOU: Have you ever applied to a job and a writing test was required?  Well, I was surprised to find out that some jobs ask writers to complete writing tests beforehand.  What are clips for if not to serve as samples of your work? Most writing tests are actually real work that writers are doing for free.  Once writers submit the “test” they’ll never hear anything back about the job.
4. THAT’S A WELL-ESTABLISHED SITE: Don’t fall for ads just because they are listed on reputable websites.  It’s always a good practice to research the legitimacy of jobs on your own.  Relying on job sites to catch all scams means putting your time and money completely into the hands of a third-party.  Sites such as CareerBuilder, MediaBistro, and Monster can provide great leads.  But, once you identify a job you’re interested in take over the reigns and do your own detective work.
5. LOOKING FOR WORK, IT’LL COST YOU: You shouldn’t have to pay for information about jobs.  For instance, paying members of MediaBistro get access to restricted information.  However, anyone can get a free account to access and apply for jobs posted on their site.  Many other well-known job sites offer employment information without requiring users to pay.  If you’re asked to pay for access to job listings, employee training material or anything related to the work just move on and continue to watch out for sites that ask you for money.

Protect yourself in the New Year.  Times are difficult in the job market.  Avoid making it even harder on yourself by ignoring warning signs when seeking freelance and offsite writing opportunities.

Do you have a story or tips that can help inform others on how to avoid getting scammed online?