Comments on: Why you want to share your knowledge

By: Sandra Beckwith

Sandra Beckwith — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 16:42:22 +0000

In reply to T. R..

What wonderful feedback, T.R. Thank you! I’m glad that many were generous with you and that you’re paying it forward. I’m sure that those you’re helping appreciate it — and perhaps they’ll do the same in the future.

Sandy

By: T. R.

T. R. — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 16:23:47 +0000

Completely agree with you Sandra. When first starting out I benefited greatly from fellow authors and writing professionals who freely shared a lot of information about the craft. They helped me understand a lot I had originally missed. Subsequently, after having published a couple of books, I decided I wanted to reciprocate and especially help those who were new to authoring. The end result is my current website and integrated blog which primarily contain articles and information regarding the indie author path. I sincerely hope what I share helps at least a few.

By: Sandra Beckwith

Sandra Beckwith — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 02:34:28 +0000

In reply to Olga Oliver.

How wonderful that you’re finally writing your story, Olga! Good for you! Regarding websites, you might find this guest post by website designer Pauline Wiles helpful: https://buildbookbuzz.com/author-website-must-haves/

Sandy

By: Olga Oliver

Olga Oliver — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 16:41:35 +0000

Great idea “Sharing Your Knowledge” Sandra. Yes, I believe in sharing knowledge and can’t wait until I feel safe in sharing. I’ve been studying 30 years and now can say, “I’m writing my story.” Just joined your group and feeling that I’m simply soaking in great info. I really like your website, its so bright and informative. I’m in the process of getting my website set up and trying to make a decision. Do you have any suggestions and advice?
Thank you for all the information.
Olga Oliver

By: Sandra Beckwith

Sandra Beckwith — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 20:52:41 +0000

In reply to Jeanne Felfe.

Thanks, Jeanne! In addition to what I said to K.M. above, imagine how much someone like me, who has never written fiction, could learn from you if I decided to go down that path. Lots, right? I’m certain the people you continue to help are incredibly grateful. I love that you’re paying it forward.

Sandy

By: Jeanne Felfe

Jeanne Felfe — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 20:28:54 +0000

Excellent article and comments. Sometimes I wonder what I have to offer as a fiction author, but then I look back at my own journey and realize I’ve gleaned a lot along the way. And much of that came from others willing to share. I’ve learned that I’m much more likely to hire someone or buy their product if they’ve been freely offering advice all along. It lends a sincerity to their work. I know the help I provide to brand new authors is appreciated and it’s my way of paying it forward.

By: Sandra Beckwith

Sandra Beckwith — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 19:54:45 +0000

In reply to Lenora Good. That must have been FUN! Sandy

By: Lenora Good

Lenora Good — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 19:38:44 +0000

In reply to Sandra Beckwith.

Sandy, I don’t know if it’s the environment, or I just haven’t met very many of the literati set 😉

If you have the opportunity to attend a Con, do so. And if possible, stay at the hotel. A lot of the really good information gets passed at night in the bar 😉 The writers are very open to talk with their ‘adoring public’. My girl friend and I spent several hours talking with David Brin one night. He not only asked our opinions, but liked and discussed our ideas.

By: Sandra Beckwith

Sandra Beckwith — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 19:18:03 +0000

In reply to Lenora Good.

Now I’m intrigued, Lenora. I might just have to take your advice if an opportunity comes up! Interesting observation about the academic literati. I wonder if that comes with the academic territory — the environment where they work. Hmmm….

Thanks!
Sandy

By: Lenora Good

Lenora Good — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 19:08:43 +0000

I spent many years attending Science Fiction/Fantasy (SF/F) Conventions (Cons, as we call them) and of all the SF/F writers I’ve met and known, to a person, were ALL very generous in sharing their knowledge, tidbits, and help. The only classification of writer/author I’ve dealt with personally (note that last word. I’m not talking about all of them) who seemed genuinely reluctant to share were those I would classify as ‘academic literati.’ Their attitude seemed to me to be one of “I worked hard for my knowledge, you have to do it, too.”

Even if you don’t write SF/F, I strongly urge you to attend a local Con. They are great fun, and you’ll meet some great writers/authors, and perchance learn a thing or two.