As writers, we write to an audience. We have at least some idea of the people our words will reach. Not just the client who will read our words, but the people in the world who are searching for information.
We provide a unique service to our community. We reach out and communicate via ink on paper (or type on a computer screen.) We inform, enlighten, and entertain our readers. After they have read our words, they are changed. They have benefited from our knowledge and experience. They have become a part of our community.
No matter what kind of writing you do, you are forming a bridge to your readers. Your novel, your poem, or your article will draw your reader in to your world, from your perspective. You guide the reader through the thoughts that you have, and show them all that there is to see.
Your readers are no longer strangers to you. Although you may not have met them in person, you are becoming a trusted source in their mind. They relate to you, and trust that you will not lead them astray. In time, they may come to see you as a valued friend, someone who they would not want to lose contact with.
With online writing, you can have immediate feedback for your writing. You can speak with your readers instantly, via email, comments, forums, or social networks. You can form an even stronger bond with your readers, and find out what spoke to them and what did not.
How have you fostered community with your readers? Do you take time to visualize your potential audience before you write? Have online methods provided you with better communication with your readers?
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Do you want to learn more about community building? Pick up a copy of Sincere Online Community Building for more information.
December 30, 2008 at 2:46 pm
I’ve always tried to take on tough subject with a light approach. I’d like to think it helps those with serious questions breathe a bit easier; Of course, the problem can sometimes be people not in your desired audience taking a not so positive outlook on your writing because they’re not in the loop.
Lesson? It’s important to leave little windows open for new readers to join the community:-).
Great post.
December 30, 2008 at 2:50 pm
Hi Brandon!
There are a lot of writing techniques that draw readers in to the community. Across different genres, the preferred techniques of the readers changes, yet they are always looking for a way in to the writer’s world.
Thank you for stopping by!
Kimberlee
December 30, 2008 at 2:54 pm
I’ve been trying to find new ways to reach my readers – through writing, and through use of social networking. I’m struggling with both a bit because there’s so much information out there about the “right way” of doing this . . . and one piece of information seems to contradict another. So, I guess the biggest lesson I’ve learned is to follow my own path.
December 30, 2008 at 2:58 pm
Hi Jenn!
Following your own path will serve you best in the long term. Everyone has their own personality and interests that will work best in their writing and social media tools.
You have done a great job of making yourself known in many social media circles. I’m sure you will come up with fantastic ways to gain more readers.
Thanks!
Kimberlee
December 30, 2008 at 10:52 pm
I love to write. The vulnerability involved can be a bit scary at times but it is more important to me to share than to not take the risk. This article is helpful because it describes how I feel about those whose work I enjoy. Thank you.
December 30, 2008 at 10:56 pm
Hi Clint!
Writing can be a very emotional experience. When writing on difficult subjects, it feels as though every nerve is exposed, and the readers can see the real you.
It is important that we take the risk and write what needs to be written, so we can share a unique bond with our readers.
Thanks for visiting Clint!
Kimberlee