A colleague contacted me this week to discuss the possibility of him collaborating with other authors on a project. At least that’s what I thought he meant. Turns out, he only needed a few resources.
I found the concept of collaboration for authors an interesting one, however, and decided to run with it in today’s blog post.
I recommend collaboration for an author who is struggling with a live presentation, a book title or even a storyline or book marketing ideas. Bring friends together and brainstorm ideas. It can be fun and productive.
Collaboration occurs naturally in writer critique groups when everyone jumps in to discuss how a certain passage could be made better or whether or not the main character is believable.
We sometimes engage members of our online or real-time writers’ groups to hash out questions and come up with ideas and resources in an automatic sort of way.
But how about creating a collaboration group of people you trust and respect to discuss the various issues that come up throughout the planning, writing and production process of your next book project. They might be able to help you determine the best route for your story to take or a better approach to your nonfiction book. Together, you might come up with a better cover design or fine tune the interior of your book.
I especially like the idea of a book marketing collaboration group. Just imagine how successful you could be with your book if you had the ideas and support of others who actually care. Of course, you would have the opportunity to help your colleagues out, as well. And just knowing that you have this responsibility, can prompt you to become a better researcher and a more astute student of publishing/book promotion, etc.
For more on collaboration and networking for authors, be sure to read my latest book, Publish Your Book, Proven Strategies and Resources for the Enterprising Author. For additional ideas to bring to your networking or collaboration group, purchase the print or digital version of Promote Your Book, Over 250 Proven, Low Cost Tips and Techniques for the Enterprising Author. Both are available at amazon.com and other online and downtown bookstores.