how to manage the admin side of being a poet

Being a poet can involve a lot of administrative tasks, such as submitting work to literary journals, keeping track of submissions and deadlines, managing your online presence, and organizing your writing and publishing materials. Here are a few tips for managing the admin side of being a poet:

1. Create a system for tracking submissions: Consider using a spreadsheet (I find Google docs very handy as it is on the cloud and can be PC and smartphone based) or a dedicated submission tracking tool to keep track of where you have submitted your work, what the submission guidelines were, and when you can expect to hear back.
2. Stay organized: Keep your writing and publishing materials organized and easily accessible. This can include things like your writing portfolio, contracts, submission guidelines, and contact information for literary journals and publishers.
3. Create a schedule: Consider setting aside specific times each week for administrative tasks, such as submitting work or updating your online presence. This can help you stay on top of these tasks and avoid feeling overwhelmed. An easy way to do this is a pattern interrupt. BBPers may not like the idea of this schedule…but make a cuppa and leave it on the counter, go to your pc and promise yourself that cuppa after your (ironically) list what’s on open subs, ready to be subbed and accepted. Then celebrate by drinking your then cold cuppa once finished.
4. Utilise technology: There are many tools and resources available that can help you manage the admin side of being a poet, such as writing software, submission tracking tools, and social media scheduling tools. Consider using these resources to streamline your processes and save time. When I send email subs I have three folders – Waiting, Not Just Yet, and To Be Published.
5. Find a support system: Consider seeking the support of other poets or a mentor who can offer guidance and help you navigate the admin side of being a poet. This can be a great source of encouragement and help you stay motivated. Come find me on twitter @BeirBuaPress
6. Share your results or any help (PLEASE!) on social.