Key Business Partners, LLC

Networking online and in person has become an important element of promoting for authors and writers. And being aware of some great networking tips as an author, you can gain lasting connections with people who may become readers and supporters of your book.

Authors and Writers—here are a few networking tips to remember:

1) Know your expertise and how you can be a resource for others. It is always a good idea to be of value to another person BEFORE you start selling or offering your services.

2) Have your presence (online and offline) represent who you are what you do. Confidence in yourself, your website and marketing materials is key to conveying a professional image.

3) Don’t assume because you meet someone, he or she would like to be on your mailing list. You can suggest to someone you meet for them to go onto you site and sign up for your site, but don’t just sign them up yourself.

4) Be sure to always say thank you. When you meet someone new, it is a good rule of thumb to acknowledge the meeting with a card or email.

5) Continue paying it forward. If you meet someone in a networking event who could be of help to someone else or vice versa, pay it forward by connecting the two people through proper introductions. This creates forward growing relationships.

6) Listen when someone is talking. As someone is talking with you, be active listening and present in the conversation. Ask them questions to gain further understanding and insight to develop deeper connection.

7) If you have a request, use a friendly voice. Always use the saying, “do unto others as you would have done to you.” If you must ask for something, be sincere in your words.

Whether you are networking on a social media site such as Twitter or Facebook or at a local event, proper networking can offer you more quality opportunities to create lasting connections as an author or writer.