Writing is a solitary activity that has at its heart the desire to communicate. Ironic, huh?

     That's why it's essential that we writers make time to develop relationships with other writers. The best place to do that is at your local RWA Chapter.

     What if you don't have one?

     I feel your pain. When I lived in the Missouri Ozarks, the nearest RWA Chapter was 3 1/2 hours away. Not doable, especially since I'd be sacrificing all of a Saturday (at the time, my primary writing day of the week). But I could justify a trip to Springfield to meet with another writer's group. They were mostly romance authors, but there were a few who specialized in Young Adult, short stories, or mysteries. No matter what their forte, I can learn from any writer.

     There are also plenty of opportunities for community on the Internet. RWA has a number of special interest online chapters. Every review site has chat rooms and discussion boards. Bloggers love to have posts from other writers. Add your two cents!

     "Why?" I hear you asking.

     A number of reasons.

     For one thing, you'll make some friends, something we all need more of.

      You just might learn something.

      You'll increase your name recognition--an important commodity once you sell. And you'll have some built in ways for readers to connect with you.

      You'll make contact with industry professionals, writers you respect, people whose opinion you'll take seriously.       

      When you get ready to look for an agent, or ask for cover quotes, wouldn't it be great to have some people whom you already know to ask for suggestions?

       I recently attended the Pacific Northwest Writers Association conference and the agent and editor's new buzz word was 'platform.' It was essential that a writer have a platform. What they wanted to know was if your book was published, how many people would care? How will you let those people know about your book? Do you have a built-in constituency that will be happy to support your book by running out and buying it the day it hits the shelves?

       For the publisher, it's all about the bottom line. For the writer, it's about how many lives we touch with our words. And how many we allow to touch us back.

       Here are some of the ways I make contact with other writers and readers on the web: Em's Links.

       If you're on any of the social networks listed, please friend me!  I'd love to hear from you!