SNAPPY. CLEVER. CARING. While this might not be everybody’s criteria for a pal, it’s one I’ve used to look online for a particular kind of new friend in the writing business. Why snappy? Because sometimes you need someone to give you a little bite to get you going.
So, who’s new in the snappy category? Meet Kristen Lamb, whose blog I recently discovered. Author of the best-selling books We Are Not Alone—The Writer’s Guide to Social Media and Are You There, Blog? It’s Me, Writer, Kristen worked in international sales before making the move to being a writer, freelance editor and speaker. And the combo is superb. She’s got fine ideas on how to help authors construct that ever-elusive platform we hear so much about, as well as how to build your brand. That covers snappy.
Clever, my second criteria? Meet her Pants of Shame, perhaps my favorite thing about her which, I know, reveals more about the writer (me) than the topic (Kristen), and makes for a great new lesson on characterization, right?
And how about that “caring” criteria?
Kristen is the creator of the twitter hashtag #MyWana, my new favorite place to hang out in the Twittersphere. It’s a room of our own, writers, so go see. Like me, she wants you to succeed.
Don’t know what a hashtag is? Google the term, and do your research. As you may remember, I’m a huge believer in research, which is what I was doing when I ran into Kristen. Other friends I’ve met online while doing research include the fine Jeff Goins and the inimitable Jane Friedman, both of whom I’ve written about before.
So read up, and write on.
Annette Gendler says
Yep, Kristen is great – has made a big difference for me when it comes to blogging as a writer.
marion says
Hi, Annette. She is a real find, isn’t she? I’m delighted, and delighted to read you here. I just went and read your lovely, intelligent piece, A Room of His Own. Really wonderful. I hope everyone else will go read it, as well. Please stay in touch.
Kristen Lamb says
Awwwww…..*hugs*. What a great blog and THANK YOU. Made me get all teary-eyed. What great company you have put me with and I am kinda pinching myself. I am thrilled you promoted #MyWANA. I know many writers–me included–didn’t have a lot of support from family and friends. Yet, that support network of care and encouragement is critical to success. I am happy that #MyWANA has become the family many of us need, but don’t always have.
THANK YOU again!
And this is kinda weird because I was actually reading your blog the other day. Do you have cameras in this place? *looks around*
marion says
Hi, Kristen. I am delighted to read you here.
You do what few do: Help other writers. And that’s what I believe in, as well.
Onward, sister.
Brock Heasley says
A new blogger to follow. Thanks for the heads up. She looks like a fantastic resource.
marion says
Hi, Brock. Welcome to the website. She is. She is absolutely worth her weight in Texas bar-b-que. Hope to see you here again soon.
Brock Heasley says
Thanks, Marion! I’m sure you will.
marion says
Delighted. I’m really enjoying reading your blog, by the way. Great story. Congratulations on getting an agent. Go get ’em.
Grace Peterson says
Great. Just what I need, Marion, another diversion. Thanks a lot. LOL
Actually I’m already familiar with Kristen’s blog and you’re right she’s definitely worthy of a seat in the SCC club.
marion says
Only good diversions, Grace. I promise.