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WMW 2022 Writing Challenge Day 2

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What is another word for “power” that produces the same magnitude? Please explain.

 

Prepare for the Writing Challenge

During Words Matter Week, we host a writing challenge. Each day we will post a question on our blog and various social media outlets.

Respond to the question on your blog or social media page (be sure to include #WMW2022 in your response), and then link back to it in the comments of the corresponding article on the NAIWE blog. For each challenge you respond to, you will receive one entry (and a bonus entry for each response written on your NAIWE blog).

At the end of the week, we will have a drawing, and one person will win a fabulous prize, along with a mention and link in the next newsletter.

WMW 2022 Writing Challenge Day 1

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Describe the energy behind what brings out the power in words.

 

Prepare for the Writing Challenge

During Words Matter Week, we host a writing challenge. Each day we will post a question on our blog and various social media outlets.

Respond to the question on your blog or social media page (be sure to include #WMW2022 in your response), and then link back to it in the comments of the corresponding article on the NAIWE blog. For each challenge you respond to, you will receive one entry (and a bonus entry for each response written on your NAIWE blog).

At the end of the week, we will have a drawing, and one person will win a fabulous prize, along with a mention and link in the next newsletter.

Words Matter Week Begins Today!

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Words Matter Week, which is in its 14th year, is a holiday that is celebrated annually the first full week in March by the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors.

Words are the basis for communication, no matter the language spoken. Babies make sounds, which eventually are formed into words. Here at NAIWE, we know the importance of words, and we want to celebrate it!

We may only celebrate it for a week, but we believe in the importance of words all year long!

 

Spread the Word

Join us in promoting Words Matter Week! You have NAIWE’s permission to reproduce the poster on your website, with a link back to this page, and you may also print and display it. Please invite your friends to participate in this year’s event and show your support for Words Matter Week by placing the poster in your newsletter, on your blog, or in your social media. Words really do matter, so let’s spread the reminders!

 

Prepare for the Writing Challenge

During Words Matter Week, we host a writing challenge. Each day we will post a question on our blog and various social media outlets.

Respond to the question on your blog or social media page (be sure to include #WMW2022, #WMW, or #NAIWE in your response), and then link back to it in the comments of the corresponding article on the NAIWE blog. For each challenge you respond to, you will receive one entry (and a bonus entry for each response written on your NAIWE blog).

At the end of the week, we will have a drawing, and one person will win a fabulous prize, along with a mention and link in the next newsletter.

Freelancer Favorites

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Based on recent dialog in the NAIWE discussion group, publishing professionals use references (and many prefer to have them in hard copy, rather than digital). While some of our references may differ, depending on the services we offer, a lot of the references mentioned were the same no matter the services (or perhaps many of us offer several services).

With that in mind, here are some of the references mentioned that NAIWE members like to have:

  • The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th edition. ISBN: 978-1328841698
  • The Associated Press Stylebook, 55th edition. ISBN: 978-1541647572
  • Bernstein, Theodore M. The Careful Writer: A Modern Guide to English Usage. ISBN: 978-0684826325
  • Butterfield, Jeremy. Fowler’s Dictionary of Modern English Usage, 4th edition. ISBN: 978-0199661350
  • The Chicago Manual of Style, 17th edition. ISBN: 978-0226287058
  • Dreyer, Benjamin. Dryer’s English: An Utterly Correct Guide to Clarity and Style. ISBN: 978-0812985719
  • Einsohn, Amy. The Copyeditor’s Handbook. ISBN: 978-0520306677
  • Garner, Bryan. Garner’s Modern English Usage, 4th edition. ISBN: 978-0190491482
  • Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th edition. ISBN: 978-0877798095
  • Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of English Usage. ISBN: 978-0877791324
  • MLA Handbook, 9th edition. ISBN: 978-1603293518
  • Strunk, William, and White, E.B. The Elements of Style, 4th edition. ISBN: 978-0205309023
  • Walsh, Bill. The Elephants of Style: A Trunkload of Tips on the Big Issues and Gray Areas of Contemporary American English. ISBN: 978-0071422680
  • Walsh, Bill. Yes, I Could Care Less. ISBN: 978-1250006639
  • Zinsser, William. On Writing Well: The Classic Guide to Writing Nonfiction. ISBN: 9780060891541

Software mentioned include

  • Adobe Acrobat
  • Adobe InDesign
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word

Aiming Higher

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NAIWE’s executive director April Michelle Davis was one of the selected speakers at the Eleventh Annual Navigating Your Writing Life Symposium. The 2021 theme for this event was Your Writing Journey: Shooting for the Stars; true to the theme, April Michelle presented her value packed seminar Critiquing Your First Pages.

In her webinar, April Michelle emphasized the importance of the opening pages, or the first 1,000 words: sharing her self-realized four goals and 10 components that help writers become authors with published books.

This webinar is also representation of NAIWE’s mission to learn how other freelancers use their skills to create financial stability and how you can do it too!

You have access via NAIWE’s On-Demand Training to listen to April Michelle’s complete presentation as the live session of this seminar was limited to just 45 minutes. The cost for NAIWE members is only $10. And just $30 for non-members.

Book Chat: Marcia Rosen

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Today’s podcast episode is a Book Chat episode, where we get to know one of the books that has been published by a fellow NAIWE member.

Our guest today is Marcia Rosen.

Marcia Rosen (aka M. Glenda Rosen) is a marketing and public relations advisor for authors and a senior team member creating out-of-the-box strategies for a marketing/advertising agency and client projects. She was owner and founder of a business/marketing and public relations agency and consulting firm in New York City; The Hamptons; and Albuquerque, New Mexico, where the company served as advisors to a wide range of national, regional, and local clientele. Marcia has presented book marketing and public relations programs at local and national events, including major book conferences, for nearly 20 years. In addition, she has worked with numerous authors developing and implementing plans to create an awareness of them as authors and gain recognition and sales for their books, including book launch campaigns and ongoing actions both through social media and traditional activities. Marcia is the author of ten books. She has published numerous articles and is a member of Sisters In Crime Los Angeles and Albuquerque, Central Coast Writers, Public Safety Writer’s Association, and Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers.

 

Q: How long have you been a writer? And what piqued your interest about this industry?

I’ve been writing books for almost twenty years, first business, then memoir and last eight two mystery series. I wanted to be a writer since I was 14.

 

Q: Is this your primary profession, or do you have other careers?

It is now. Prior to this, I owned a full-service marketing and public relations agency offices in New York, California, and New Mexico.

 

Q: When did you first have the idea for this book? And what inspired you to actually write this book?

The idea of the Senior Sleuths Mystery series was a combination of loving the Thin Man series and wanting to write mysteries and adventures with seniors being active, interesting, exciting, and adventurous with a touch of romance mixed in with murder.

 

Q: What prompted you to publish the book when you did?

Good timing for seniors and me as a senior.

 

Q: What did you learn while working on this book? And what were some challenges you faced during the writing or publication of this book?

I kept at it same as in business. I don’t listen to negative voices, only let people I trust read and edit it.

 

Q: What avenues have you used to market your book? And which ones were the most successful for you?

Lots! Signings at bookstores and conferences, social media actions, networking,  guests on blogs and not going programs on zoom, which are very helpful.

 

Q: Where has this book been mentioned, and has it won any awards?

It has been mentioned on Goodreads, Amazon, social media, mystery blogs, Mystery Scene Magazine, and it placed second with Public Safety Writer’s Association—a great organization. It won first place for writing, “My Memoir Workbook.”

 

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our listeners?

Accept and act on how important it is to stay visible with your book and you as an author.

Marcia Rosen, The Public Relations and Book Marketing Expert

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We wanted to get to know Marcia Rosen (NAIWE’s Public Relations and Book Marketing Expert) better, so last month we sat down with her. Here are some thoughts she shared with us.

What is the typical length of author podcast and Zoom interviews?

The average length is an hour with time included for questions and answers. It is very important in every way to be prepared!

Is it acceptable for authors to exchange guest appearances on each other’s podcasts?

Yes, if they are agreeable to the idea. Everyone is different.

What different approaches should authors use for podcast vs. Zoom?

Confirm who the audience is and let them know why you think their audience will be interested in what you have to say. Pitch an idea, not just promoting your book. I’ve pitched how to write a mystery or memoir, and the host always promotes my books.
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How do you reach your potential market, especially now with limited opportunities for in-person events at bookstores and many writers conferences cancelled? As a marketing/public relations professional and agency founder, Marcia Rosen knows authors are like any business and they should create a presence and consistent message by implementing various marketing strategies.

Two valuable marketing approaches to consider: Author Podcast and Zoom Interviews.

Millions of people are listening to podcasts. Online surveys have revealed over 70 million Americans listen to podcasts each month. Online statistics assert, “beyond any doubt, podcasts are a potential goldmine for promoting your book(s).”

Bookstores, libraries, and writing organizations offer Zoom programs, which include interviewing authors, presenting author talks on genre specific topics, and, of course, book marketing.

During this program Marcia will also discuss booking an appearance as a podcast or Zoom guest, do’s and don’ts of being a successful guest, and using these interviews to promote yourself on other social media platforms and your own website.

You can join in this conversation on November 16, at 7:00 pm eastern, when NAIWE will host a discussion on author marketing. The cost for NAIWE members is only $10! Non-members can join for $30. Register today!

Marcia Rosen, The Public Relations and Book Marketing Expert

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We wanted to get to know Marcia Rosen (NAIWE’s Public Relations and Book Marketing Expert) better, so last month we sat down with her. Here are some thoughts she shared with us.

What is unique to the pandemic that is beneficial to writers?

Zoom book marketing events and meetings have proven to be valuable for writers during the pandemic. Writing organizations, libraries, and bookstores have all given authors an opportunity to talk about writing and their books. I’ve found this to be very beneficial.

What can writers capitalize on to stay motivated to write?

Staying connected to other writers, attending in-person or Zoom writing events and meetings may be motivating. Being a guest on writing blogs or writing articles to have your voice heard. I also teach writing classes, and responses from others is very motivating for me.

Are there any stats for the success rate of writers?

Measurements of success are having your book listed on a best-seller list or winning a writing award. Also, success can be relative depending on the author and what they are looking for as a writer.
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From staying on track to not giving up or giving in, from not listening to negative voices, including your own, the purpose of this presentation is to encourage you to stay determined, confident, courageous, hopeful, inspired, and motivated with respect to your writing. We’ll talk some of what can inhibit and interfere with writing goals and how to move past them.

There are times it’s possible to be discouraged and unsure and wondering why you’re even bothering. But your soul cannot and does not really want to give up. So, write on, tell the negative voice in your head and from others to go away! Each writer needs the promise of possibility and hopefulness that their dreams and ambitions can be fulfilled.

In this presentation we’ll cover:

  • Having your voice heard during this pandemic!
  • Knowing you have the right to be a writer
  • Perseverance
  • Trusting your own voice
  • Dealing with and ignoring negative voices
  • Planning, preparing, pushing forward
  • Motivation and staying motivated
  • Setting a writing schedule or routine
  • Setting deadlines for yourself
  • Avoiding distractions and distracting people
  • Being comfortable with the plans for your work and your ideas on issues such as dialogue, character development, point of view, tone, and your storyline.

You can join in this conversation on October 19, at 7:00 pm eastern, when NAIWE will host a discussion on motivation. The cost for NAIWE members is only $10! Non-members can join for $30. Register today!

Greg Smith, The Novel Writing Expert

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We wanted to get to know Greg Smith (NAIWE’s Novel Writing Expert) better, so last month we sat down with him. Here are some thoughts he shared with us.

Is this a guide to follow at will?

The Agile Writer Method is something you can do at your own pace and on your own schedule. However, it is structured for 10 pages per week for 25 weeks. I recommend you find two critique partners and have weekly meetings where you review your weekly 10-page output. This creates a sense of accountability that motivates you to write each week. However, you can follow the program and write your novel at whatever pace works best for you.

Do all the steps need to be in order to write a good novel?

Yes, and no. The big idea behind the Agile Writer Method is successive refinement. You’ll start with a single sentence describing your story. Then write an elevator pitch (one paragraph). Then a synopsis (one page). During the plotting phase, you create an eight-stage Storyboard (or outline) that structures your story. Then you write 10 pages a week for 25 weeks. So, yes, there is a progression that you need to follow. However, many Agile Writers will write their beginning, then their ending, and then fill in the middle! So, it’s a pretty flexible method.

Do you offer a template?

Yes, there are templates for the Hero Abstract, the Story Abstract, and the eight-stage storyboard (or outline). These templates will get you started. Most Agile Writers are pretty creative; they’ve embellished and augmented the templates to suit their needs. As I have said, The Agile Writer Method is very flexible!
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Storytelling is as old as the human race. Over the ages we’ve come to expect a pattern to storytelling. In this webinar, Greg Smith lays out this time-worn pattern. Based on Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, mythology, psychology, and screenwriting techniques, the “The Eight Stages of the Novel” will help you plot your story before you put pen to paper.

You can join in this conversation on September 13, at 8:00 pm eastern, when NAIWE will host a discussion on writing your novel. The cost for NAIWE members is only $10! Non-members can join for $30. Register today!

Brian Schwartz, The Self-Publishing Expert

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We wanted to get to know Brian Schwartz (NAIWE’s Self-Publishing Expert) better, so last month we sat down with him. Here are some thoughts he shared with us.

What makes a good review?

A good review helps target the book for the right reader while steering the wrong reader away. I often tell authors “The way you get a good review is by putting your book in the hands of the right reader. Bad reviews are the result of putting it into the hands of the wrong reader.” If your reviewer is open to advice, provide them with keywords you know others are likely to use in a search since reviews are also indexed by search engines. An ideal review is 1–2 paragraphs and mentions the main reason why they read the book and what they got out of it. People are skeptical that a review is legit when the review is only 1–2 sentences.

Can a book ever have too many reviews?

Never! Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents has over 31,000 ratings on Amazon with an average of 4.8/5 stars.

Can you sensor or pick and choose reviews?

No, and you should never engage with a reviewer. In one instance, I did reach out to a 1-star reviewer and offered to compensate her for her time because the author was distraught. Some companies who sell products on Amazon may offer a bad reviewer a full refund if they are willing to take down their review. But this is not advisable. I regret doing it myself as it tarnishes the integrity of the entire system and you are setting yourself up for scammers who just want free products. The truth is that the more people you ask, the more likely you will get a bad review. But a few bad reviews can raise the legitimacy of the others and if the bad review steers the wrong reader away from your book, then it’s actually done you (and the reader) a service. I tell authors that for every one bad review, they should try to offset it with two positive ones.
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What’s the one thing you can do each day to grow your sales? Ask for a review. In this webinar, Brian will empower you to build the essential foundation behind any successful book: a strategy to continually ask for reviews. Before you spend a dime on advertising, your book must have reviews. While Amazon reviews get all the attention, there are many other ways you can leverage reviews elsewhere.

Key takeaways you can expect from attending this webinar:
• The indicators that Amazon uses to remove reviews
• The importance of “vanilla urls” when pointing to Amazon
• The 3 key elements of an effective review
• Using Amazon reviews in your marketing materials
• How many reviews you need
• When a bad review can be good
• How to avoid getting banned by Goodreads
• What a successful reviewer outreach, tracking & follow-up system looks like
• How to find over 100 potential reviewers in your own network.

After helping hundreds of authors over the past 10+ years, Brian has seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t. How do you get a good review for your book? You put your book in the hands of the right reader. Amazon.com began with a single line of code. Similarly, the success of any title began with a single review.

You can join in this conversation on July 28, at 6:30 pm eastern, when NAIWE will host a discussion on book reviews. The cost for NAIWE members is only $10! Non-members can join for $30. Register today!

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