Before the advent of technology, aspiring writers used to write their thoughts down in a diary. Samuel Pepys, Anne Frank and even Adrian Mole used a journal to record their aspirations, hopes and their struggles. The blog is the modern journal and not only is it a place to deposit a writer’s wrath; it can also bring other benefits.
Marketing and Writers Blogs
One of the key messages that are drummed into writers is the need to market their work. Many writers are not good at selling themselves but if they want to share their work, observations and their messages, whether fiction or non-fiction, they need to have a presence. Writers’ websites are a good marketing tool, but the information is just that, a kind of virtual CV, which is regularly updated with current work and skills.
A writer’s blog however can show readers, agents, publishers much more about the person. About what makes them tick, about their writing life and so it becomes a bit more personal. People are more likely to invest in writers if they understand them a little more, if they can show their uniqueness and more importantly display their craft – writing.
Making Money From a Writers Blog
A writer’s blog can also help to earn money through affiliate programmes. Affiliate programmes consist of a link to a particular store for the purchase of products, which relate to the ‘businesses of writing. Visitors to writer’s blogs might be tempted to follow these links and then make purchases, for which the referring writer receives a financial benefit. There are many products on the market, which do not cost the author anything but can bring small but welcome rewards. Some of the most common ones used by authors involve books, for example Amazon or writing relating products such as pens and stationary.
Writers Block and Writers Blogs
One of the most frustrating occupational hazards for writers is the dreaded writers block. Keeping a blog can help break through the void, providing a reason just to write about anything which comes to mind. It helps to exercise the craft and keep writers writing. Most writers have something to say even if only to record what they had for breakfast. The important thing is to write and not worry about the content and this very simple process can help in banishing negative thoughts and barriers.
Writers’ blogs can also become a place for support from other fellow writers who can provide support and encouragement when most needed. Writing is a solitary business but the internet has provided the opportunity for almost instant communication. By building up a steady and loyal set of visitors, writers can develop virtual relationships upon which they can call and do the same for others.
Keeping a writers blog is not obligatory for writers, indeed it could be seen as an additional task fighting for space on an already full action list. However, the key to a writer’s blog is that it allows authors to fulfill their passion for writing; it can be financially rewarding and can create the space for developing relationships with like-minded people.
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