Social Media Networks Built For Authors and Writers

Mar 15th, 2010No Comments

Ning helps authors connect, and writers craft their work

Despite all the information, resources and data available on the Internet today, there are instances when you just can’t seem to find what you’re looking for. This is especially true for people who are are trying to connect exclusively with other like-minded individuals. In our case, this would be authors and writers.

Fortunately, some amazingly tech-savvy person recognized this and created a brilliant social media tool called Ning. Ning is a free social platform that lets you socialize your brand, amplify a cause that you’re passionate about or create a hub for people to gather with common interests. It allows users to develop and design their own customized social pages with rich-feature capabilities, such as personal blogs, chats and forums.

Similar to the information super-highway, Ning has a tremendous amount of social networks and millions of active members on each of them. The nice thing about Ning is that whatever you can’t find, you can build yourself. For example, if you’re someone who enjoys building styrofoam pink bunnies out or recyclable materials and setting them on fire whenever there’s a full moon and you want to meet other people just like you – you can set-up your own Ning network for that specific purpose.

Because it’s always nice to meet other writers and exchange successes, challenges and knowledge, we looked at what Ning had to offer in author/writer genre and discovered that there are some great Ning networks available for to join.

Writer’s Digest Community (WDC). Hands down, this is one of the most comprehensive Ning networks available for authors and writers alike. Presently, it’s 4,011 members strong and growing. The WDC features online events and competitions to get your creative writing juices flowing, a guide to literary agents, an online store and a WDC badge to proudly display to show your support on your website’s home page.

Independent Writer’s Network (IWN). This Ning destination is a place that describes itself as being a place where writers can promote their works, share ideas and encourage others. Through this network, members can build their own sub-network page or create their own sub-groups. What makes IWN a stand-out is that content is fresh and relevant to the network’s focus. Definitely worth checking out.

The Writer’s Network (TWN) (affiliated with OnceWritten.com). On TWN you’ll find a wealth of information relating to all things author and writer. Members and OnceWritten.com have compiled a plethora of excellent tips, how-tos and resources that make starting out for a newbie or enhancing what you’ve got for the seasoned pro a complete breeze. Well-supported and updated hourly to daily, TWN is an excellent Ning network.

Other mention-worthy Ning networks include:

The Writer’s Box

The Written Word

World Poets & Writers Registry

Book Marketing Network

Take a moment to explore Ning on your own and you’ll find that there are many niche writing networks, including crime, horror, afro-punk and countless others. There’s truly something for everyone.

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All entries by Leili McKinley

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