Where do you go to network with other writers? What are some of the best networking tools that you’ve used? How should a new writer begin the networking process? Here are a few of my own thoughts on networking as writers:

Personally, I view networking as absolutely vital to a serious writing career. The fact of the matter is that a lot of the better writing gigs are never advertised. You find out about them through networking and referrals (such as a colleague getting an offer that doesn’t quite fit their background, so they pass the word along). Blogging as a writer has also led to quite a bit of networking opportunities, just from “running into” other writers on the blogosphere. And of course, there are plenty of writing communities, forums, and newsgroups. I run one myself over at AllFreelancing.com, and that’s been a great resource for meeting new writers.

On top of networking with other writers, I’m big on the idea of specializing your writing. That lends itself to networking not only in the publishing world, but with industry professionals in your niche and potential client groups.