How to Get the Most from Trade Publications
by Patricia Fry
We all get irritated by the number email messages, spam and even lengthy newsletters that bombard our email boxes everyday. It becomes a nuisance to have to go through it all in order to decide what to keep and what to toss. Most Americans are on overload and the effect on us does not present a pretty picture. But I continue to preach and nag that, as freelance writers and authors, we really need to know what's going on within our industry and where the specific opportunities and ideas are for our particular projects.
How many writing/publishing-related e-newsletters do you receive each week? How thoroughly do you read them? How often do you find information that you can use? One thing is for sure, if you don't read them, your writing business or publishing project won't benefit.
I receive around two dozen different writing/publishing-related newsletters and magazines (both online and print) each month. While a few are monthly, most are weekly and that adds up to over 50 issues every thirty days. I can't say that I read every word in every publication, but I certainly do study the table of contents and pretty carefully scan most issues. I do this in the evening, after working hours.
How beneficial is this? I consider the time I spend with industry publications to be vital to my freelance writing business and my publishing endeavors. A week doesn't go by that I don't discover new statistics and information that help me keep a realistic perspective with regard to trends in the industry. I frequently find unique ideas for promoting my books. I learn about new magazines and new publishers seeking materials that I can provide. And I become aware of contests, book festivals and other events that I might want to participate in or share with other writers.
As a freelance writer or author, it is to your advantage to keep up with industry trends and opportunities. Think about it, if you were a doctor, attorney, auto mechanic or insurance salesman you would strive to stay informed as to the changes and opportunities in your profession. Don't short-change yourself. Be professional. Become informed and stay alert to the opportunities out there for you. One way to do that is by reading or at least seriously scanning some of the magazines and e-newsletters available. (See an extensive list of e-newsletters with descriptions on the Writers/Publishers Resources Page.)
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