What has our Writers Guild done for us lately?
Glad you asked because the Guild has a wonderful answer in Writers Connect, a short newsletter members get every week. (See? Another good reason to bust your butt to qualify and join.)
Ask A Mentor: Cracking the Code
Aaron Rahsaan Thomas gives advice to a fellow Black writer on code switching.
As the saying goes, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. When that chance arrives in the form of an important meeting, many writers weigh whether or not to show up as their authentic selves. S.W.A.T. showrunner Aaron Rahsaan Thomas answers one writer’s question about whether or not to code switch, the practice of adjusting one’s behavior, appearance, or language to make the other parties in an exchange feel more comfortable or receptive.
Send your questions about the craft, job hunting, your career, or Guild service to Connect (under 100 words, please) with the subject “Mentor,” and we’ll send them to an established screen or TV writer to answer. Questions might be edited for space or clarity and will be published anonymously. WGAW mentors provide informal career advice and are not expected to read scripts, give notes, hear pitches, or help find representation or work. Read more >>
Looking Ahead to the Biden-Harris Administration
The opportunities and challenges to come.
Presidential candidate Joe Biden vowed to be “the strongest labor president you have ever had,” and the WGAW PAC supported the Biden-Harris ticket. Now, as the candidate transitions into leadership, it’s time to hold him accountable to his promises.
Here’s some of what writers should look out for come Jan. 20. Read more >>
Get Started with the Start Button
Help the Guild help you get paid on time with this simple and effective online tool.
Last spring, the Guild launched the Start Button to give screenwriters working on assignment—and TV writers working on pilots—a simple way to record when they begin working on a draft and when it’s delivered.
The Start Button enables you to inform the Guild when you begin work on a step and when the draft is scheduled to be submitted, enable follow-up when payment for your writing is due, and request assistance if you are paid late or asked for free work. Read more >>