Being a writer can sometimes be a lonely existence, especially if most of a person’s work is done online. Social networks can remedy this to a degree, offering writers an outlet to socialize with others who share their trade. We’ve outlined 10 of the best social networks for writers here, as well as what benefits they provide their users.
1. Suite101
Suite101 is a ubiquitous name in the writing world, and that’s because it’s a terrific resource. Writers can actually get paid for content that they post and interact with other writers. The site’s aura has diminished over the past year, but it’s still a wonderful resource for anyone in search of freelance opportunities to build their portfolio.
2. Trigger Street Labs
Trigger Street Labs brings a different angle to social networking for writers, as it’s geared towards writers and filmmakers. The site has scouts and features the top submissions in a section called “spotlight submissions.” Any screenwriter looking to get noticed should head on over to Trigger Street Labs.
3. Writers-Network
Writers-Network is a community that’s existed since 2004. It features contests and peer reviews to encourage improving work, and welcomes writers of any creative genre. The focus is on poetry, but anyone who is writing or interested in writing fiction is welcome to use the network. The network can help improve your work through constructive criticisms as well as help you uncover new ways to succeed in writing.
4. Inked-In
Inked-In doesn’t just cater to writers. It’s a community for writers, artists and musicians alike. Writers will benefit from the site’s active blog, and the fact that it is part of the Burry Man Writers Center, a resource for freelancers. Members of Inked-In will find that it has a blog that is frequently updated with new content.
5. Zoetrope
Screenwriters and novel writers should take a glance at Zoetrope. The site features workshops and critiques for submissions by its users, as well as submissions for its magazine. Zoetrope is a small community, but it’s still one that can benefit its users.
6. Writertopia
With Writertopia, writers can hone their skills and be alerted of relevant workshops and events in their area. The site features portfolio management and multiple ways for writers to develop professionally. It’s a great resource for people who are serious about improving their skills.
7. Gather
Gather is a social network geared towards journalists who can post content to the site. From there, the sites’ thousands of users can converse about different topics. Gather provides freelance opportunities to its users as well as other benefits. It’s a terrific meeting place for journalists to network and converse.
8. WritersCafe.org
WritersCafe.org features a listing of literary agents, and that alone makes it worth a visit. The site also features forums that are great for finding advice and making friends with others who share an interest in writing. As an added bonus, the site also features courses to help its users develop as writers.
9. We Like to Write
When people think of social networks, they think of Facebook. As far as social networks for writers go, We Like to Write is as close to a Facebook parallel as it gets. Geared towards writers and bloggers, it gives users an outlet to debate and discuss issues, as well as collaborate on projects.
10. Book-In-A-Week
Last but not least is Book-in-a-Week, a site that prides itself on providing motivation for writers. The site features a management system for helping writers reach their goals and is based on collaboration. It provides tools and resources for writers, as well as some much-needed networking for support. The site is especially great for writers who sometimes need help sticking to their goals.
Harrison L. is a blogger and editor of Bonsai Tree Gardener. Recently he has published a post on Bonsai Tree Gardener about bonsai starter trees for beginners and the tools required to grow and take care of your own bonsai tree at home.
TweetTags: social networking, social networking sites, social networks, writers, writing