It’s easy to think about writing as just a hobby, and certainly can be a very creative and enjoyable one! But if, like me, you want to actually create a career out of writing, there are certain steps you need to take in order for people to take you seriously.

Block Out Time to Write

There are plenty of people with a great idea for a book or story. What sets you apart you from the wanna-be writers? You have to actually write.

Writers write. Every day. Even when it’s hard. Even when they don’t want to. And if you want to get serious about writing, you have to stop making excuses that stop you from writing and just write. A little bit. Every day. Day after day. Until the piece is done. Then do it again.

If you want to take your writing from hobby or dream to an actual job, career, or even calling, you have to stop treating it like a pipe dream.

Join a Professional Organization

If you want to be taken seriously a writer, joining a professional organization lends some credibility. There’s a organization for just about any genre of literature. Whether you join the Author’s Guild, The Society of Children’s Book Writer’s and Illustrators, or the Horror Writer’s Association, you will find resources, information, and other writers to connect with.

Check this list for an organization that fits your goals and niche!

Build Your Resume

When I decided to actively pursue a career in writing, I updated my resume. Some of my information and experience would apply to my writing career, like my degree in education and my experience in the classroom. But if I’m creating a resume the presents my abilities as a writer, I need to build it to show case that.

Writing credits, professional organizations, continuing education, classes workshops, conferences, and anything that helps establish you as a writer can and should be included on your resume.

Make Connections

In order to become successful at something, you need to surround yourself with people who are not only doing it, but are better at it than you are.

Connect with local authors. Attend conferences with other writers and editors. Find critique groups or workshops to make connections with people who share your passion, but are already in the world of writing and publishing.

Call Yourself a Writer

This is the simplest and the hardest step. Own the fact that you are a writer. Even if you’re still working on that first publishing credit. Even if you feel like a phony. How can anyone take your writing seriously if you do not believe you are a writer?

None of these steps will guarantee publication, but they help set you up as a professional and allow people to take you seriously.

What other steps do you find helpful as a writer?

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