Matthew Hongoltz-Hetling
I think a lot of great talent dies on the vine, for want of being noticed.
Some people are fortunate enough to have the two vital ingredients: good writing skills, and a network of connections that can help get those skills noticed and published.
Then there's the rest of us, who have to claw our way up. When I started, I literally wrote stories for 10 cents (which was worth about a dime back then).
Aspiring writers should:
1) Put constant thought and energy into pitching new outlets
2) See 1)
Over time, the magic will happen. Editors and gatekeepers will give you a chance. If you do a good job, some of them will give you another chance. Your skills will improve. Some of the editors and writers you know will move up to better positions, and you will get better opportunities as a result.
The important thing is to never stop knocking on new doors, to never stop pushing yourself upward. The first time you turn down a gig that you would have accepted in the past, you'll know you're on the right path.
Some people are fortunate enough to have the two vital ingredients: good writing skills, and a network of connections that can help get those skills noticed and published.
Then there's the rest of us, who have to claw our way up. When I started, I literally wrote stories for 10 cents (which was worth about a dime back then).
Aspiring writers should:
1) Put constant thought and energy into pitching new outlets
2) See 1)
Over time, the magic will happen. Editors and gatekeepers will give you a chance. If you do a good job, some of them will give you another chance. Your skills will improve. Some of the editors and writers you know will move up to better positions, and you will get better opportunities as a result.
The important thing is to never stop knocking on new doors, to never stop pushing yourself upward. The first time you turn down a gig that you would have accepted in the past, you'll know you're on the right path.
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