Putting Your Shoes Out There

So, I'm on a roll with this whole social networking thing. Yesterday, it was Twitter. Today, it's Facebook. That's right--I have a new Facebook page. You can follow me there and on Twitter by visiting the links on my sidebar. What's with all the new social networking? You might ask. Well, I think it's important. For today's Thursday's thoughts, I want to dive into this topic. How important do you think social networking is for aspiring authors? I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that I think it's highly important. Maybe not for the reasons you think, though. Here are my reasons to actively participate in social networking sights. #1: You meet people of like mind. There is nothing more valuable to the aspiring author than others who are in the same boat. My guess is, most of us don't physically interact with other writers. If we do, it's on a limited basis. Why not connect with people just like us on line? It makes sense, doesn't it? #2: You learn a lot in the process. Whether it's a tweet, a Facebook status, or a blog post, everything you read garners knowledge. Maybe it's about the industry as a whole, a particular agent or publisher, or a specific writing technique, there is valuable information to be gained from others. #3: You form a connection with people of importance. I know from experience that agents and editors do, in fact, check in on the on-line presence of prospective clients. The aforementioned may not choose to represent you based on the level of your on-line presence, but they do appreciate the fact that you have one. It builds a professional appearance if nothing else. #4: You are laying important groundwork. Whether you are published or not, the greatest marketing tool you have is your name. It's not one book you are selling; it's you as the author. (This does, however, require that the writing is good, as well.) Anyway, the more people who recognize your name, the more people who will choose one of your books over another on the bookstore shelf because your name is familiar to them. Why not start getting that name out there now? #5: You are having fun. Yes, you read that right. The most important part of social networking is that it's fun. It's like going to a party without having to get all ready. You can wear your pajamas for all anyone cares. No need to pull out the make-up and high heels. After all, no one can see you. Okay, so there you have it. My thoughts on social networking. Please share yours.