How to Get Read

Authors and aspiring writers oftentimes muse over how to get one’s work read, reviewed, and conceivably published by a major publishing house. As many decide to follow the path of self-publishing, a great deal of debate is going on about what are acceptable ways to promote one’s work.

Getting the Most out of Critique & Comments
At some point in your writing career, you should seek feedback on your work. Sure, your mom can look it over. Your best friend can read your new novel, but if you want honest criticism, one of the best sources for critiques is from your peers.

A Critique Can Be Wrong
An important aspect you must consider is that critiques, or opinions, can be wrong. Even professional editors are not always right, just be prepared to take each critique seriously and see if you can apply it to your work.

“I Like your Story.”
Someone said they like your work. Great!
Then they start to get into a more solid critique. Do not automatically tune out everything after the BUT…

If you think it is totally off the mark, move on. Ask other writers in our community about the person’s comments. Do not be afraid. You are here to further your writing vocation.

“I Hate your Story.”
That is hardly feedback, and it is definitely not helpful. We frown upon this type of comment, and will not publish it. We want to help you build confidence in your writing. Being constructive is the key.

Positives and Negatives
On that note, when giving feedback on another’s work, why not point out both the positives and the negatives? If the plot line is strong, say so. If the characters need work, let the writer know.

This approach can work miracles for a struggling writer – no matter what their level of experience. Whether you are just starting out or have already published several novels. If you are ready to gain a new appreciation for the writing process and network with your fellow writers on Angie’s Diary, it can help you get a fresh perspective on your writing.

Get…But DO Give
Don’t expect your fellow authors to overwhelm you with comments on your first post – of course it does happen, even regularly – but instead, start giving feedback on the work other writers have posted, as they will almost certainly reciprocate. That is an important aspect of this magazine.

“I Don’t Know How to Give Feedback!”
Of course you do. Just as you can spot strong and weak points in your own work, you can point out the same in other people’s work.

In fact, by reading work from other writers, you can help develop a sense for what works and what doesn’t. Developing that sense will help you to improve your writing skills along the way.

Helpful hints
If your real goal is to get read, getting to the Top Ten and get published by Harper-Collins or similar publishing houses, here are some ideas that are NOT in violation of Angie′s policy:

Get the most out of your free Basic Account:

Submit articles to hone your writing skills
Engage other writers on a regular basis

Additionally for Premium members:

Post book reviews
Post book excerpts
Keep us in the loop of your publications, so we can regularly make suggestions for promotion
Mail us with the details of the book to be promoted in one of our Amazon carousels
50% discount on Book of the Week publications and all advertising rates

Best Practice:

Share your posts on several social networks: Google +1, Digg, Facebook, Delicious, Linkedin, and especially Stumbleupon has shown a serious potential to boost page-views.
Ask your friends and colleagues to do the same