Organization Memberships - Credentials?

[BrianTubbs]

Would membership in the Historical Novel Society help me (in terms of credentials, credibility, etc) in securing a publisher - were I to submit a historical novel ms?

I realize there are OTHER benefits - as you and their website have pointed out. And these other benefits may be enough for me to join, even if the answer to the above question is 'no.'

[JenNipps]

Hello, Brian.

I moved your question to a discussion thread of its own because I think it's an important issue.

That said, personally I don't think membership in most organizations is a viable credentialing agent unless the organization has rigid membership guideliens and criteria you have to meet before becoming a member. SFWA and NWU come to mind on those.

[pdr]

The only things that get your book published are the facts that it is well written, with an original voice and style and the editor likes it.

Having publishing credits - short story or articles in the HNS journals - might help you off the slush pile but won't sell your book.

[rtilryarms]

I don't believe there is a general answer. Any exposure is good. It cannot hurt and can only help, if not in publishing, then in mingling with people more and less successful than you. I have belonged to historical societies in 2 cities and helped with research on several books and publications for different eras. It will help to use those creds. It will not stand on it's own but I know publishers would like to see more than a couple of references of involvement.

Groups have a louder voice than individuals.

[dclary]

What belonging to a society like that can do isn't necessarily sell books. But it can put you in a position to network with people who would want to read your books, and as such, give you the insights you might need to better tailor your WIP to your audience.