Why do we write blind characters? As a blind author, I like to use my disability as my trademark; at some point in each of my stories, a character will either go blind or find themselves in a long-term situation where they’re as good as. Other authors may be trying to spread awareness or perhaps explore what it might be like to live as a person with blindness. Sometimes blindness might give a character a unique edge or flare. And sometimes characters simply fall fully-formed into our psyches, disabilities, and all.

Most writers are trying to bring people in with their writing. Authors work hard to craft their message and use illustrations, charts, and images to engage their audience through more than just dazzling prose. To do that, authors invite readers in—though e-books, print, websites, and social media posts. But are we making our content accessible enough?

At its core, networking is about building a web of meaningful connections, and for every goal that you’ve set for yourself this year, networking can help you achieve it—or at least close the distance significantly.

You only get one chance to make a first impression. Don’t take that for granted, and instead, come prepared.

When you decide to network with purpose, it’s important to know what you would like to accomplish at your next networking meeting.

Eliminating distractions helps you be fully present so you can connect with others.

Knowing what you can offer others can boost your confidence and increase your networking opportunities.

Seeing events from a different point of view can open you up to new networking opportunities.

Conferences are great opportunities to learn and to meet talented and successful people who can inspire us to move forward with our goals and dreams. But are we connecting with them correctly?