5 Ways to Get More Bang From Your Bio!

BIO.
It’s a small word with a big role.
Still, many writers underestimate its importance.
When created properly, a Bio can be an effective tool to enhance your writing image.
It should be considered the equivalent of a resume: it speaks volumes about your level of professionalism, accomplishments, and what you have to offer.
Not to mention, Bios, at their best, help to distinguish you from scores of other writers and bloggers, and gain attention from busy editors.

In fact, did you know that sometimes readers actually examine your Bio before deciding whether or not to fully read your material and heed your advice?

With this in mind, here’s how to make the most of yours:

1. Start by addressing the 5 basic questions of journalism:
who, what, when, where, why. Don’t make readers play 20 questions.
Approach it like you would an interview.

2. Make it brief but substantive.
Too much information, and you run the risk of being boring and braggadacious,(is that a word?). Too little and it fails to elicit enough interest.
Be sure to write tight, but highlight the most important aspects of your career.

3. Tailor the Bio to the cause and the publication.
For example, I have a different Bio for articles that I write for business publications than I do for pieces I pen for relationship columns. And an entirely different one for Blog gigs. And you should too.

4. Make it interesting.
Share something that’s unusual or contradictory in nature.
Like, say for instance, if you’re a writer who hated English in college. Or you‘re a man who writes primarily on female issues like pregnancy or shopping. Pretend like you’re a contestant on Jeopardy; seek to appeal to your audience quickly.

5. Add humor as part of the success equation.
Humor helps to make you more memorable, when applicable. And it also shows creativity and passion.

To sum it up, here's a useful acronym to keep in mind:

B--BRIEF
I--INTERESTING
O--ORIGINAL

Thoughts? How do you beef up your BIO?

Image: Stock photo

Are You Working Harder, Not Smarter? Five Reasons Your Output > your income

Are you working hard, but hardly making ends meet?
Have you actually considered "throwing in the towel" because your sweat equity seems greater than your returns?

Chances are, you're guilty of the same mistakes and mindset that stunts the growth of writers of all genres and backgrounds.
If so, it's time to work smarter, not harder.

"Riddle me this?"
What's the purpose of being a freelancer if it's not to enjoy certain "freedoms" while maintaining an enjoyable quality of life? Hello?

With this in mind, let's examine some of the reasons you may not be earning your worth for your words.

1. Buying into the myth of the starving artist.
Don't get me wrong, starving artists DO exist, but it's not to be considered an "absolute" cardinal rule as a writer. You don't have to suffer for your art.
And while productive activities certainly enhance your overall success, your mindset makes a difference too. Well-to-do authors like J.K. Rowlings, Stephen King, John Grisham, and Terry McMillan should serve as constant reminders of the infinite possibilities available to all of us. Remember, "so a man thinketh, so it is."
Aim high.

2. You've got no goals.
Goals are like a roadmap on the path to success. How much would you like to make this month? This year? Would you like to write a book in the future? Do you have a business plan? Put your goals in writing, along with designated deadlines to go the distance.

3. You're choosing the wrong types of writing.
Be advised: all writing is not considered equal. Though circumstances vary, writing for businesses typically pays more than penning pieces for magazines.
Print publications often pay more than online sites. Feature writing pays more than blogging. Make it a point to know the ins and outs of the industry. Devote the bulk of your efforts to what yields the most profit. It's a no-brainer.

4. You're not seeking expert advice.
Whether it's through reading and applying the words of wisdom from best-selling authors or A-list bloggers, it's important to pay attention and take note.
It's virtually impossible for any of us to know all there is to know about the vast field of writing. Shorten your learning curve and increase your odds for success by studying and gleaning from the many resources at your disposal. Because if you haven't got a clue, you haven't got a chance!

5. You don't govern your time like you govern your money.
Time is a commodity. Yet many squander it foolishly.
Recognize that being busy is not the same as being productive.
Are you with me here? Watch out for time wasters.
Like...folks who hold you "hostage" on the phone. Spending excessive amounts of time being social on social networks. And not prioritizing properly. Not that all your hours have to be mapped out and accounted for. There are certainly times when I kick back with a box of chocolates and do an all-night movie marathon, or shop for hours with gal pals, or surf the Net for bodacious blogs. But, I work hard so I can play hard. And I never miss a deadline. :-)

Well, there you have it folks. Thoughts? Confession time...which are you guilty of?

Image: Stock photo

What I'm Reading and You Should Too...The Well-Fed Writer by Peter Bowerman

"Feed a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he’ll eat for a lifetime.”

There’s a reason that “Well-fed” author, Peter Bowerman, enjoys more of the “proverbial pie” than many of us: he knows his stuff without being stuffy.

Armed with a former background in sales, Bowerman capitalizes on his vast experience. And he knows his way around a sentence. More importantly, he has the ability to tap into the needs of the reader and ultimately close the deal.

Strategic, smart, and surprisingly funny, his “writer’s voice” is intimate.
In the ever-popular Well-Fed Writer, Bowerman serves up a wide variety of tools, techniques, and actionable tips to help writers raise their level of consciousness and their bottom lines.

It’s an easy read with hard truths. Here he explains why all writing assignments are not created equally, and why many of us in our careers are working harder, not smarter.
The book discusses at length what it takes to be financially self-sufficient in today’s times, and addresses many of the common pitfalls that plague writers of all levels and genres.

Between the pages, you’ll find topics like time management, marketing and cold calling, Ramen Noodles, setting fees, and even facing fears.
With over 300 pages of resources, links and real-life examples, he’s very generous in what he “feeds” his readers.

Also, to his credit, Bowerman shares the spotlight with other authors and entrepreneurs by including some of their success stories, quotes, and case studies.

The Well-Fed Writer is a must-read for those seeking to overcome the starving artist lifestyle, and earn more respect, (and more bread) for their efforts.

Thoughts? What efforts are you making to become a "Well-Fed" writer in 2012?

Pen & Prosper Celebrates National Poetry Month

First loves.
It's no secret that in life, we often "revert" back to them in thought or association. We remember their initial magic. How they made us feel.We marvel at the way they allowed us to discover new heights and broaden our horizons. Such is the case for me and poetry.

Allow me to elaborate...In my literary career, I have been blessed to wear many hats.
At some point or another, I have dabbled in just about every genre imaginable.
From being a relationship columnist, to a pro blogger, to an essayist, to an editor.
And I have loved them all. But my first love? Poetry. Hands down. Way before
I fancied myself a "professional writer," poetry fueled my passion for words.
It allowed me to express myself without grammatical or structural restrictions.

And, I believe that it has gained greater acceptance and awareness in today's times. With this being said, I am happy, no, absolutely elated to celebrate National Poetry Month. N.P.M. was first introduced in 1996, by the Academy of American Poets to increase awareness of this important art form. Each year, it is celebrated by publishers, poets, teachers, and businesses through workshops, literature, poetry readings, and discussions.

In keeping, I'd like to honor and acknowledge poets' contributions to our literary landscape--from the greats like Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Maya Angelou, Jeanne Towns, Sonia Sanchez, to spoken word artists of today. Happy National Poetry Month. Who's your favorite poet past or present?
Do you dabble? Do tell...

Vacation Reflections...the 411

I've come to realize that a "vacationing writer" is a bit of an oxymoron.
True writers are never really "off work". Scout's honor.

Whether we're spending time with loved ones over the holidays, sunbathing at a beach in a new city, or frolicking in a foreign country, the typical writer is "wired" in such a way that, (no matter where he is planted physically), he's usually busy brainstorming blog ideas, gathering ideas for an interview, working on a character's dialogue, or creatively "processing" endless possibilities.

And so it was for me...

I was thinking about my writing goals for 2012, and devising ways to make more of my dreams a reality. And make more money.

I followed up with a few editors on the status of a few pieces that were pending.
One was accepted, with payment due. Another editor kind of left me hanging.
Such is life, right?

In the middle of the mix, I had a computer malfunction that left me without my laptop for a number of days, and rediscovering the joys of my local library.
While there, I rented some good movies to make the most of my trip.
Also, got my hands on a copy of The Well-Fed Writer by Peter Bowerman.

Which, b/t/w I highly, highly recommend. Anybody out there ever read it?
(Review to come later).
Speaking of Peter Bowerman...I also had the opportunity to connect with him, in my efforts to submit an article to his Ezine or blog.

The good news is he accepted it, and it's tentatively scheduled to run in the near future!
That Peter is a real "class act". Let me tell you...
He was easy to interact with, very helpful, smart, and though he may be a "well-fed writer", it was really cool to discover he's "not too full" of himself. :-)

As for recreation?

Well, I read a lot. Kicked back with some good music. Celebrated my mom's birthday with family. Stayed up watching movies later than I should. Ate more chocolate than I can justify.

Glad to be back. How about you?


Image: Stock photo

Spring Has Sprung!

It's been an eventful week, folks. And a month with much left to do.
I'm working on a few projects: ghost writing for a business blog, preparing to find an agent for a book, screening guest posts, submitting articles, etc.

As they say---"there's never a dull moment!"

With this being said, Jen will be taking a much-needed Spring Break starting Friday, April 13th, to run through April 21st.

I look forward to reconnecting!

Join me then, for a celebration for National Poetry Month, featuring poets from across the globe, more "how-tos" to help you, and of course, guest posts, lively conversation and thought-provoking posts!

In the meantime and in between time, keep writing and reading!

Jen

5 Ways to Build a Platform (and a bigger writing career)

If you're like the typical freelance writer, you probably envision your articles, essays, clever commentary and poems as one day leading up to a book deal with a traditional publisher and a guest spot on the late Show.

Who wouldn't?
There's certainly nothing wrong with wishful thinking, or lofty goals.
But, in order to make those book publishing dreams a reality, building a platform is an absolute must.

I learned the hard way.
Some time ago, upon the convincing of one of my long-time editors, I submitted a self-help proposal on relationships, (based upon 10 years of writing about mating and dating), to a roster of New York agents. I eagerly awaited their green light for the entire manuscript, and my "John Hancock" on the dotted line.

Much to my surprise, I got a fair amount of positive feedback and initial interest.
But at the end of the day, no one would sign me on as a client. The reason? I didn't have a strong enough platform. One agent actually wrote, “You have obvious talent as a writer, but your platform is not strong enough.”

Needless to say, I was a little shocked and disappointed. Up until that point, my only real references to “platforms” were the high steppin', klunky shoes that surfaced on the scene with the Bee Gees and Saturday Night Fever! Remember?

But as they say in law, “ignorance is no defense.” Since that day, I've been working diligently to raise my awareness and my visibility. And you should too.

A platform is simply a following or fan base for your works. Publishers look at it to assess potential sales and revenue. Their objective?

R.O.I. ---Return on investment.

It's almost as important as good writing. Which is why you see so many celebrities with no prior writing experience landing lucrative publishing contracts.
Establishing a platform gives you leverage as a new-comer, not to mention, it allows you to make money through name association.
Noted author Christina Katz defines it further as, “all the ways you are visible and appealing to your future, potential or actual readership.”

“If you build it they will come.”

Here are 5 ways to build a platform and elevate your writing career.

1. Write well and often---Like any other industry, you have to pay your
dues. The more you write the better you become. The better you become, the more readers you attract.

2. Realize that all writing credits are not created equally---Though it's great to get a byline and a few bucks from lesser known publications that are easier to break into, know that a publishing credit from Associated Content is not viewed the same as one from Writers Digest. Come out of your comfort zone, and aim higher.

3. Have an online presence through a website or Blog---Even if it's something modest, having an on line presence can elevate visibility to the 10th power, and maximize earning potential. Use your site to sell books, promote classes or events, and to expose the world to your unique writing style and voice.

4. Join social networking sites like Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter. Increase your popularity and your reach. There is strength in numbers.

5. Teach classes and workshops---It's another way to establish your expertise and to cultivate a loyal following.


By following these five tips, you'll show potential publishers that you're marketing savvy and someone worthy of their interest and investment!