6 Ways To Get Started As A Professional Writer in 2023

For many, the notion of ‘taking the first steps’ in the writing world is a daunting one. Thousands of people will tell you that you need to ‘just put your work out there’, and while that is true, doing it the right way is crucial in order to maximise your chances of success. If you’re a hidden, aspiring author who has been writing their magnum opus in a quiet basement for several years, you might do well to pause the publication of your genius piece, and first heed the advice in this article.

As a passionate literary organisation, we understand the importance of providing a platform for aspiring writers to showcase their talent and share their stories with the world. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned writer, publishing your short stories can help you build your portfolio and gain recognition in the literary community.

Here are some ways you can get started on your writing journey:

• Online literary magazines

  There are many online literary magazines that accept submissions from aspiring writers. These magazines typically have a focus on a particular genre or theme, so be sure to read the submission guidelines carefully before submitting your work. For example, our literary magazine, The European Literary Review, acts as a launchpad for authors that wish to have their work noticed (not just by normal people, but also publishing scouts). The first edition of our magazine will be released on February 15th, 2023, and will feature the best writings from the participants of the 2022 European Writing Prize, which brings me to my next point.

Our magazine,

THE EUROPEAN LITERARY REVIEW

Many journals similar to this exist. You can find them by scouring the web using search terms such as ‘literary journals’, ‘writers magazines’, etc.

• Writing contests

  Participating in writing contests can be a great way to get your work in front of a larger audience and receive feedback from literary professionals. You can find writing contests by searching online or checking the websites of literary organisations. For example, Reedsy has an amazing curated list of writing contests on their website. Our currently active writing competition, The 2023 Bloom Writing Contest, has been named as one of Reedsy’s ‘2023 Best Writing Contests’. If you’re unsure of where to start in your writing journey, then consider submitting a piece to the Bloom Writing Contest, which accepts not only short stories, but poetry, memoirs, exhortations, whatever you like!

The 2023 Bloom Writing Contest

The deadline for submissions to the contest is May 1st, 2023. The prize is 500 Euros via PayPal or bank transfer.

• Social media platforms

  For a writer in today’s digital world, social media is an imperative tool when it comes to exposure and success. Social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Medium, and Substack provide a space for writers to share their work with a wider audience. You can also use these platforms to get paid for your writing, with some successful Substack authors raking in thousands of dollars per month for their articles, stories, etc. When starting, building up an audience on social media can be one of the key tools to success in the long run. You can also use these platforms to connect with other writers and gain feedback on your writing, which is invaluable in this profession.

The big three: Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are the big three social media networks that you can use to effectively market your writing. Establishing an audience on all 3 is the most optimal way to gain followers of your work.

• Self-publishing

  With the rise of self-publishing platforms such as Kindle Direct Publishing and Smashwords, it has never been easier for aspiring writers to get their work published. You can publish your short stories as e-books or print-on-demand paperbacks, and make them available for purchase online. Using websites like Fiverr, you can have cover art commissioned, and thereby financially contribute to the people who help make the writing profession possible and appealing to those interested.

Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) is one of the easiest platforms that writers can use to have their work published fast. Note, though, that it might be better to establish an audience or some form of presence in the literary world (by submitting into contests) before leaping into self-publishing.

• Workshops and writing groups

  Attending workshops and joining writing groups can be a great way to improve your writing skills, receive feedback on your work, and connect with other writers. You can find writing workshops and groups in your local community, or you can participate in online groups. Having your writing featured in a local group can be an amazing way to springboard into writing for larger, less local groups, and when combined with our social media advice, is extremely beneficial.

• Blogs and personal websites

  Creating a blog or personal website can be a great way to share your work with the world. You can use your blog or website to publish your short stories and reach a wider audience. This also allows you to develop an early following, which will then purchase your ‘magnum opus’ when you decide to publish it! Give your audience a taste of your short stories, your poetry, and let their appreciation for your writing organically flourish before you drop your master work. Having a personal website also allows a massive degree of flexibility and freedom when it comes to what you want to publish. Writing for other websites and journals can be beneficial for exposure, although you could potentially have your artistic independence and idiosyncrasies suppressed.

Publishing your short-form writing is a great way to build your portfolio, gain recognition, and share your stories with the world. When you have done that, then consider going further and publishing long-form writing. By taking advantage of the many opportunities available to aspiring writers, you can make your writing dreams a reality.

For more information on the 2023 Bloom Writing Contest, visit this link.
To preorder the first edition of The European Literary Review, visit this link.