Electronically Yours
This month’s theme focuses attention upon online resources.
The words online and resources immediately caused my head to rotate at a rapid pace. How on earth could I give you so much information within the confines of this article? Once the swiveling subsided I was able to harness the plethora of ideas demanding to have their say.
The Internet is a wonderful thing. Its invention and constant evolution has made it possible for even the agoraphobic to enjoy a social life. With the depressing of a button the world is brought to you. The same is applicable when seeking information necessary for establishing and keeping abreast with the business of writing.
You may be wondering how to start your search. What is the link to finding this or that? Well, I’ll be very honest, just ask the computer. Sounds crazy, but no one told me that you could ask the computer questions. Because they didn’t, I did and it led me to information I needed and would need later. One such query led me to OWL/Online Writing Lab (http://owl.english.purdue.edu/internet/index.html). On this site I learned the variety of possibilities for exploration as well as Internet basics.
Google, Yahoo and similar search engines store seemingly limitless information. Type in your query and up pops a host of avenues to follow. As you become savvier you will learn how to use key words to pinpoint your search efforts.
Looking for information on writing? You can query the Internet with specific questions such as: 1) Articles on setting up your writing business; 2) Books on the craft of writing; 3) The complete directory for self-publishers; 4) Your marketing plan, and so on.
The phenomenon of the Internet’s ability to connect us to research needs and social communities that lend support to common goals is commendable.
Need to connect with other writers? Search Yahoo and Google Groups for your specific need. Also, consider social networks such as MySpace, Nings, Shelfari, Shoutlife, Writing Blogs, Blog Talk Radio, Twitter and Facebook.
*Please note that serious consideration should be given before joining any online group.
There is much more information to be found and applied to your writing and business process. Rather than overwhelm you I will stop with what we have here. As I leave you I would like to remind you of something very important. Instant information is a wonderful thing, if it is the right information. The convenience of online information is no guarantee that what you receive is true, relevant or up-to-date information. Be sure to check references and ask questions before applying information to your process.
Before leaving you I would be remiss if I did not leave a few links for you to explore. Since my passion is for the aspiring/novice author I have chosen links for the most frequently asked questions. The list is brief, but will give you a starting point. Further questions may be referred to Dr. Linda Beed @ http://us.mc501.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=lindaonassignment@yahoo.com
Please use ‘Industry Question’ in the subject line.
Copyright/ISBN: http://www.loc.gov/loc/infopub/
LCCN:
http://book-publisher-compared.com/lccn_library_of_congress_control_number.asp
State Licensing for Business:
Seek information on state licensing in your state
Federal Licensing:
http://usgovinfo.about.com/od/moneymatters/a/taxidhowtoget.htm
Have a question about a specific company. Try these literary watchdog sites:
Predators & Editors: http://anotherealm.com/prededitors/
Writer Beware Blogs: http://accrispin.blogspot.com/
As stated before there are many more resources available. Take your time, ask questions and do your homework.
Until next time, remember—Purposely Said words can destroy or create a life. Linda!
Dr. Linda Beed is an educator, speaker, children’s minister and author of Business Unusual. She co-moderators BWChristianLit, maintains its sister online blog and is the Review Editor for KDGospel Media Magazine.
You can find her on the web at:
lindabeed.com / MySpace / On Assignment Reviews / BWChristianLit
