The importance of membership and subscription to industry newsletters and magazines

When I first started writing I felt guilty about spending money on anything but in particular on memberships and subscriptions until I realised that they are not only interesting but essential for your growth as a writer. If your passion was collecting coins or snow skiing you'd be investing in pieces or equipment so this is no different.

Benefits of joining your local writers' centre could include:

• Receiving a newsletter which usually contains information about courses, lectures, writing competitions.
• Gives you a chance to meet like-minded people and possible critique partners (maybe even a new great friend or two!).
• Facilitates writing and critique groups.
• Invitations to industry events and book launches.
• Some writers' centres even publish anthologies of members work which is great for your writing resume.
• Provide opportunities for volunteering your time on events or projects sponsored by the centre.

Similarly subscribing to industry magazines is also important. One that I love is the Buzz Words Magazine which is for writers of young adult and children's stories. It contains industry news, competitions, articles, book reviews, industry updates etc. It is delivered as a pdf twice a month to your inbox. It costs $48 for 23 issues and is very informative, keeps you motivated and aware of any competitions you could enter. For more information or a free sample copy see the website http://www.buzzwordsmagazine.com/p/about-buzz-words.html

Happy Writing.