Most writers either have a website, blog, Facebook, Twitter or some other media outlet. I'm here to warn you that anyone can look at your website and read your blog. Facebook and Twitter are open to all the strangers you befriend. One thing writers should never do is post the number of publishers that have rejected your story. Why you say?
The why is because these days' editors, who receive proposals from you will go to your website to check out your work and read your blog before they look at what you submitted. If you sent X-Story to editor at Y-Publishing and she/he reads that the story has been to a dozen publishers and been rejected by all of them, the editor is going to think there's no way I want this work. Not only that if you whine on Facebook or Twitter, you have no idea who is going to read it.
It would be far better to say that you have done extensive rewrites based on comments given by contest judges, critique partners, a published author or an editor you submitted your work to.
If you have totally rewritten the story, then say that, but don't post all your rejections. Don't whine, think before you write anything that might harm your aspirations.
Sandra K. Marshall
11 comments:
Such good advice. I hadn't realized how much two of my editors read my blog, not that I say anything I shouldn't...but boy am I glad I know better. :)
Words of wisdom that every author should heed. During the myspace heyday I was approached by an editor to submit some of my work to her house. She said she had been watching me and checked out my website and blog, both which gave off good vibes. I had no idea who she was before contact or that anyone was paying attention to me. Thank goodness I'm well-behaved. (And yes I did submit my work and it was published.) But it proves we never know who is watching us.
this is excellent advice. there is a lot of temptation to whine on-line. usually whining is best reserved for a phone call, or at the bar with friends.
thanks for this
Liz
Wise advice. I've read so many snotty, snippy and downright mean comments at times, it reminds me of being back in an all girl high school.
EVERY author should read this post. GREAT advice! Ive seem some very harmful info on Blogs and have often wondered WHY an author would reveal those things. I dont have a Blog, but Im always mindful of anything I post anywhere....
hugs, Kari Thomas, www.authorkari.com
Whining is unattractive anytime, but I didn't realize editors have enough time to check blogs! How can they do it when they're swamped with books?
It's amazing how people forget how accessible, blogs and website are to the world.
Great advice for all writers whether they are published or not.
Smart girl, Amber. Thanks for your comment.
Cassie, I'm glad it turned out so well for you with the editor. They do watch us.
Thanks, Liz. You're right that the whining should be reserved for the phone with someone you trust not to tell everyone. Not the bar at any conferences though, there's editors and agents around. Smile.
Tina, I agree with you. I have dropped off some loops for that very reason. I don't care for mean girls or anyone mean.
Thank you, Kari. I've some of the harmful stuff, too. You can find it on discussion boards at Amazon, Yahoo and almost everywhere.
Jean, how long have been in this business? Smile. Editors have found new ways to find new authors in this new age. Grin. I agree whining is unattractive.
Mary, too many people forget how dangerous the internet can be. Not only just for their careers, but for their physical safety. Thank you for that reminder.
Great topic...yes, be very careful about what you say. Getting into a hissy fit and whining can become a black mark you won't be able to control.
Thanks, Marianne. I've cut my bridges with a couple that I really regret.
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