Essential Tips for a Successful Author Ask Me Anything Session

rateyourstoryweb
33 minutes ago
2 min read

After 25 years in the business, I am grateful to all the Authors and Industry Professionals who let me pick their brains as I plodded along my path to success. So when I am asked to donate a prize for a contest, or onboard a Member to Rate Your Story (www.rateyourstory.org/become-a-member), I like to offer this opportunity.

What is an Ask Me Anything session?

It's an opportunity to engage with a published author / industry professional and gain insights into their creative process. But for me as a Mentor and Editor, it's also a chance to chat and learn more about a writer and their goals. This can possibly help me make recommendations for them to think about as they proceed on their path.

Helpful Tips

Google my name (Lynne Marie) and read articles written by me, as well as interviews. This will help you build your knowledge about me, stockpile advice, and avoid questions that are answered in these places.

It's a good idea to know my work (https://amzn.to/49w4fxF). Even better, buy a book and formulate questions about story structure, plot points, character arcs, theme, process, agents, editors -- whatever comes into your mind. Understanding my themes and style can help you come up with questions that will ellicit meaningful discussions and lots of takeaway value from our chat! I have some special pricing on my website where you can both get one of my books on Kindle AND extend your session for just a small charge! Check it out at www.literallylynnemarie.com!

Keep an open mind to trying recommendations and approaching your writing and career from different angles than before.

While thoughtful questions are wonderul, I am very casual and happy to just go where the chat takes us. So don't stress over our meeting! Think of it as a coffee chat if you want, or in the alternative, an interview if you want. It's up to you!

Be on time (enter the chat room 5-10 minutes early) and don't leave important questions to the last minute. I have heavily scheduled days and often can't afford the extra time as I have another appointment to pop into.

And as always, if you found my session helpful to you as a writer, please share on Social Media and feel free to tag me!