Why You Should Attend Writer’s Conferences
I’m so excited to attend Cultivating a Writer’s Life next week—the inaugural conference put on by the C.S. Lewis Foundation. I’ve never gone away on a trip by myself, which makes me all the more excited!
I’m excited to get away to a state I’ve never been to and spend three full days writing and meeting other writers. I can’t think of a better way to make progress on a book project.
Writer's conferences are an important part of an author’s career. These gatherings offer a myriad of opportunities for growth, networking, and inspiration. So, whether you're a novice or a seasoned author, here are some compelling reasons why attending writer's conferences can be immensely beneficial:
Cheaper than a degree: One of the most significant advantages of attending writer's conferences is the opportunity to enhance your writing skills. Workshops and seminars led by seasoned professionals provide invaluable insight into various aspects of the craft, from character development to plot structuring and everything in between. You’ll gain new perspectives, learn practical techniques, and refine your storytelling prowess.
Networking: Just like most industries, networking is pivotal to success! Writer's conferences offer fertile ground for forging meaningful connections with fellow writers, editors, literary agents, and publishers. These interactions can open doors to potential collaboration opportunities, manuscript feedback, and even publishing deals. I met a wonderful acquisitions editor at a conference one year who offered to read my finished manuscript. While I didn’t end up getting a deal with her publishing house, she provided super helpful feedback that helped me strengthen my manuscript before I submitted to agents. This is also a great place to meet other aspiring authors who can provide crucial support along the way.
Inspiration and Motivation: Writing is a lonely sport, often plagued by self-doubt and creative blocks. Attending writer's conferences can reignite your passion for writing and provide the motivation needed to persevere through challenges—it’s helped me time and time again. Engaging with like-minded individuals who share your love for storytelling can be incredibly inspiring, reminding you of the profound impact words can have on readers' lives. You’ll be ready to get back to the page in no time.
Industry Insights: Writer's conferences offer insider knowledge about the ever-evolving publishing industry. From sessions on navigating the querying process to discussions about emerging trends and market demands, you’ll gain valuable insights into the business side of writing. Understanding the industry landscape will equip you with the tools you need to make informed decisions about your career and your manuscript, which will help you navigate the path to publication.
Pitch Opportunities: Many writer's conferences offer the chance to pitch your manuscript directly to literary agents or editors. These pitch sessions provide a rare opportunity to bypass the slush pile and capture the attention of industry professionals. I’ve done this and had great experiences, like the one I mentioned above. Crafting a compelling pitch and receiving real-time feedback can be instrumental in securing representation or a publishing contract. I highly recommend pitching at least once at a conference before pitching through a cold email query. It’s just great practice.
If you can make it happen, writer's conferences are a worthwhile investment for any writer looking to elevate their craft, expand their network, and navigate the complex world of publishing. Even an online conference where you have the opportunity to pitch your ideas to an agent or editor can be beneficial!
From skill-building workshops to invaluable networking opportunities, these gatherings provide the tools and inspiration needed to succeed in the competitive realm of writing. So, pack your notebook, grab your favorite pens, and secure your babysitter. It’s going to be a blast!
