BY LM WHITAKER
Sisters in Crime (SinC) is an international crime writing association, founded in 1986. We are an inclusive organization, open to everyone (not just women and regardless of publishing status).
The Atlanta Sisters in Crime is one of over 60 chapters within the broader national organization.
Have you joined SinC?
If not, and you’re looking for a community that supports, educates, and promotes all crime writers in all stages of their careers, look no further than Sisters in Crime (SinC).
If so, are you making the most of your national membership?
Let’s investigate the fantastic benefits of joining this international writers’ organization and how it can support your writing journey.
1. Broaden Your Exposure
Members of SinC have increased visibility in the literary world. Here’s how you can, too:
Online Membership Author Listing: Your author profile will be featured on SinC’s website, making it easier for readers, agents, and publishers to find you.
2. Expand Your Community
Writing can feel lonely, but with SinC, you’re part of a vibrant community with many facets.
Regional Chapters: Chapters like Atlanta Sisters in Crime are all over. Attend in person or online. Many chapters open their events to SinC national members, making it easy to meet new writers with shared interests.
Write-Ins: Join write-ins with other authors. There are plenty of online options available, including with us, the Atlanta chapter.
Guppies: This online chapter is perfect for those who haven’t published yet (and many stay on long after). It offers online classes, an active forum for advice, and critique groups to help you refine your work.
SinC LinC: Think of it as a private Facebook-like platform for SinC members. It’s great for networking, finding critique groups, and doing research. You can also ask questions to the broader community, including experts (I once had a crime scene investigation question answered by fellow member Lisa Black—so exciting!).
3. Expand Your Knowledge and Improve Your Writing
SinC provides nearly endless opportunities to enhance your writing skills and knowledge. Here’s how:
Attend Cool Events: SinC hosts a variety of events that you can attend, both from local chapters and national. You can find upcoming events on SinC LinC and the main website.
Webinars and Online Courses: SinC offers monthly free live webinars for members. These sessions feature top-notch storytellers and teachers who can help you improve your writing craft and career. Plus, there are over 130 archived recodrings to choose from!
The Better Your Worlds, Better Your Writing Course: Deeply discounted for members, this course will help you create richer, more immersive worlds in your writing.
The Equity Project 101 Online Course: Offered for free, this course offers a primer of terms and concepts involved in the practice and learning of DEIJB.
The Sisters in Crime Writers’ Podcast: This is a fantastic resource where you can listen to conversations with our members about the writing journey: their process, what they’ve learned, what they wish they’d know sooner
4. Funding for You and Your Community
SinC offers awards, funding and grants to support your writing career and your community. This includes financial support for attending conferences or funding for libraries/bookstores. And if you are financially unable to afford to join SinC, please contact them as assistance may be available. Find information on grants and awards here.
Where to Find These Benefits?
To make the most of your SinC membership, be sure to:
Read the Monthly Newsletter: Stay updated on the latest news and opportunities.
Visit the Website: Check out all the resources and information available online.
Join the SinC LinC Social Group: Connect with other members and take advantage of all the networking and learning opportunities.
Joining Sisters in Crime can be a transformative experience for your writing career. So why wait? Dive into this supportive community and discover a world of benefits today!
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