Maybe I'm missing something

[ksmith]

Why would someone who apparently is not actively pursuing/trying to build a writing career want to serve as an officer in a writers' organization?

Comments

[kristine-smith.livejournal.com]

Do you think it helps to have experienced the ups and downs of a writing career firsthand, and to have dealt with the business end of things?

[pbray.livejournal.com]

It depends on the person and the position. In some cases these individuals bring enthusiasm, organizational skills and the willingness to donate large chunks of their time, and they do a good job. I've watched over the years as RWA awards for outstanding service are generally given to women who are not (at the time of their service) combining an active writing career with their efforts.

But there are drawbacks. Someone who isn't an active writer has little credibility outside the organization when it comes to dealing with the industry and the media. They also have credibility issues within the organization, particularly when it comes to thorny issues.

Going back to RWA again, there's a sense that you have to be a working writer to understand what issues are important to a working writer, and that enthusiasm and good intentions aren't enough to make up that difference.