Writing to the Trends

Consumer and social trends influence what people want to read. Whether business writer or fiction writer, you need to know these trends. My top source is Trendwatching. The free monthly trend report is a source of endless article and ebook ideas. Fiction writers also need this information to add authenticity to the setting in a given time.

Among the "11 Crucial Trends for 2011" is Online Status Symbols. That's what you are reading. A blog is an online status symbol that establishes a cyber-presence, defines the interests of the blogger and presents creative work.

Another 2011 trend is Social-Lites and Twinsumers which reflects how we share ideas online, recommend colleagues or products and follow the sub-culture of popular brands (like Amazon, Levis or Starbucks). Of course both of those trends involve ample tweeting, Facebook time and blogging!

Business writers may want more intense information which comes with the paid Premium service. For most writers, the monthly Trendwatching email briefing is robust and a fantastic free resource.