Writing Communities Online

The Internet is a breeding ground for new authors, and as a result, new writing communities are forming all the time to fill the needs of this new market. For serious writers, these online writing communities and websites can serve to provide needed direction and input. New writers find many such sites to be helpful in gaining objective critiques on their fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.

Years ago, I started my own writing group. It wasn't online, but there were about six of us. We'd meet once a week and critique one another's works. I also belonged to a bigger group that did the same thing. At the time, I tried my hand at fiction. I had no idea how embarrassing it would be to read my fiction out loud!

Maybe you're too busy to get together with people every week, and would feel more comfortable with the new type of writing and critique groups online. Writer's Market put together such a list and I'd like to direct you to it. Some of them include forums, links to membership services they provide which can gain you readership, and needed input on your work, as well as opportunities for long-term connections with writers and editors. Check it out.

After being critiqued, isn't it time to market your work?

I've often heard new writers say they wish they could break into the freelance writing world. It seems pretty tough at times to just have someone give you an opportunity when you have no experience. The great thing about today's online market is that you can sell yourself easier. With a few writing samples, a well-constructed resume and bio, you can open doors. Sometimes all that's needed is a submission, and no one even asks for experience.

I'm one of those people who have hired freelancers based on their abilities and skills, more than their education and experience. That is, if they can prove themselves to me with great samples and enthusiasm, I'm more likely to network with them than I am with a know-it-all well-educated editor with a bad attitude. I'm not the only one like this. I have networked with many companies and businesses that feel the same way. A track record and results are important, but fresh talent with high energy and ambition should never be overlooked.

When I first started out, several companies gave me a chance. I looked good on a resume, but I pretty much had no experience. Luckily my internship writing for the travel industry gave me some credibility, as well as the samples I managed to put together from relevant college class projects. My goal was to show that I was highly motivated, creative, and had the ability to work independently. I sought projects that allowed me to work by myself, for the most part. Guess what? I managed. Through my early years, I landed some really great freelance projects. I remember designing a seminar catalog for a new company; writing radio and print ads; even doing radio voice-overs. I then got a reporting job PT for a newspaper and went on to write for magazines and many other businesses.

I've always enjoyed the variety freelancing has offered. I especially believe in helping new writers, as well as established writers find their niche in the freelance world. I've posted many links in the past of great sites where to find freelance work. I've also given you links to writer's groups, other blog sites, and a writer's marketplace. Many other bloggers have done the same. I really believe if more of us get involved in networking, providing ideas and markets to each other, Associated Content can become greater on the Internet. Below are four more sites to help you out as you seek places to market your work:

http://www.ifreelance.com/

http://www.sologig.com/

http://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=freelance+writing&l

http://www.academia-research.com/