What Writers Can Learn From Politicians

I have to be one of the first to admit that I really do get tired of this time of year when the politicians are all running for office. Still, I know it is important and frankly, I am pretty dang proud of getting the chance to live in the US. While this time might be a bit crazy with the ads, I was thinking recently of how what we are seeing going on right now (and in the past) really does translate well to writers.

Whether or not you want to believe the things going on with Herman Cain, I do have to say that this is one of those examples where things in the past really do have an impact on what you do today. Although an issue might be small (not saying the allegations about Mr. Cain are), those small little things can come back to bite you.

I know that I am someone who does remember things writers have said and done in the past. There are several authors out there that I would never go out and buy their book. Even if that author were to come to me and want me to represent them with a 7 figure deal, I would likely pass on it. Why? Because of some things they either said or did in the past that I felt were simply not right.

Now that we have moved into an electronic age, everything we say and do can be tracked. Employers are reading what we post on Twitter, Facebook and our blogs. We have become an "open book" and "Big Brother" might be watching you.

I just want to remind all of you to really watch what you do. This is especially true for those of you fighting and working so hard for that first contract with an editor or agent. Hopefully you don't have any skeletons in the closet that might come back to get you.

Scott