Author Opportunity Checklist and Outreach Tracker
An invitation to a feature, event or collaboration is useful only if the audience and terms fit your goals. A practical opportunity checklist helps you decide when to proceed, when to ask questions and when to decline. The outreach tracker keeps genuine inquiries and follow-up actions together.
Download the editable worksheet
Download the member opportunities worksheet (Excel) →
Open the Excel file in your spreadsheet application or import it into Google Sheets and review the formulas after conversion. Save a separate copy for your project. Fill in the pale-yellow cells and use the Review status dropdown. Ready items and Items to review update from those choices; Not applicable removes an item from the remaining review count. Your edits stay in your file and do not sync to Author Rise.
This workbook also includes an Outreach tab for recording inquiries, dates, next actions and responses.
1. Go back to the original source
Find the organizer's current public listing rather than relying on a forwarded message. Check the identity, contact route, dates and eligibility. Record the source URL and the date you reviewed it. A directory profile or friendly invitation alone does not verify an organizer's claims.
2. Assess the audience and required work
Explain how the opportunity relates to your book, readers or learning goals. List the materials, preparation time and attendance required. A prestigious-sounding title does not make an invitation suitable. Consider whether you can deliver the work without disrupting important production commitments.
3. Clarify costs and actual deliverables
Record fees, travel, required purchases or other expenses and what they cover. Ask what the organizer will provide, how participation is selected and what is expected from you. Clarify the use of your writing and images before agreeing. Do not treat guaranteed exposure or sales claims as proof of value.
4. Use a small, relevant inquiry
Write a concise message naming the opportunity and one question or proposed contribution. Use the verified public contact route. Ask for clarification when details are missing instead of sending payment or extensive private information. You can decline when the fit or terms remain unclear.
5. Track follow-up and results
Use the Outreach tab for the source, contact route, sent date, follow-up date, next action, status and outcome. Respect the organizer's stated process and avoid repeated messages when there is no response. Record actual replies and commitments. This guide is an evaluation tool, not a live opportunity feed or a list of confirmed Author Rise programs.
A practical starting point
Inquiry starter: I found [opportunity] on [source]. My work relates to [specific audience or theme]. Before applying, could you clarify [deadline, contribution, cost or deliverable]? I can provide [relevant material] if the fit is suitable.
Adapt this example to your own work and the recipient's requirements. Complete the first three relevant worksheet fields, then choose one action you can take today.
Continue with related Author Rise resources
Further reading and useful tools
- The FTC's consumer guidance explains why reviews and recommendations deserve careful evaluation.
- WIPO's FAQ offers general background for questions about use of your work.
Find a connection and keep your working files
Explore the Author Rise Directory → to review the directory and its current contact options. Agree availability, deliverables and any fees directly with the person you choose. Example listings are illustrative; browser-created profiles are not shared member listings.
Download all ten community worksheets (ZIP) → or return to the Author Rise Community.