Writing Jobs: Skit Leads to Network Opportunity

I have written before about the importance of networking with friends and family to find writing jobs in your hometown.

I thought I would share my recent experience as an example.

Coffee House Skit

At the end of the school year my son appeared in a “coffee house” to raise money for his high school music association. A coffee house is North Andover High School’s version of a talent show fund raiser. Students show off their talents, the music association charges admission and sells refreshments, and everyone has a great time.

Brian decided to do a couple of comedy skits based on a character he loves on You Tube. I offered to write a third skit based on the same character. I thought those already familiar with the online skits would enjoy seeing something original.

Skit Stokes My Vanity

photo courtesy of Katie Ouellette

The skits were a success and I soaked up a little praise on Facebook for the one I wrote.

I was pleased with the exercise.

I had a lot of fun writing the skit.

Seeing Carolyn and Brian bring my words to life gave me enormous satisfaction and fed my ego.

I thought that was all that would come of it.

Skit Leads to Writing Jobs?

The surprise payoff came about a week ago when the head of a local theater group contacted me about doing some writing. Linda had heard about my skit and asked if I would be interested in helping her write some plays.

Are you kidding? Playwriting is play for me. I told her I would love to help her write plays and it wouldn’t even feel like work.

As we discussed my writing and her theater group, we explored other areas I may be able to help. Linda’s theater group has ongoing writing needs including playbills, brochures, and grant proposals. That page and a half skit I wrote for a high school fund raiser may prove to be the start of a long term professional relationship.

Or perhaps this is just the next branch in my network. When Linda heard I am interested in writing for the local newspaper, she offered to pass my business card on to a couple of reporters she knows. Who knows how far this will go?

Keep Networking to Find Local Writing Jobs

Remember that every day you have a chance to connect with someone who needs your skills and there are distinct advantages to local writing jobs. Keep networking with the people you know, circulating your business cards, and following up with the leads you will generate.

That’s my story. What is yours? Have you made an unexpected local connection you would be willing to share in the comments?

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