Authors often ask me whether they should go to a writers
conference--after all, it is an investment of time and money.There are many reasons, but I think the five below are key. I could write about going to conferences in general, but instead I'm going to write about going to the Southern California Writers Conference (SCWC), coming up here in San Diego, on Presidents’ Day Weekend, February 13-16th.
Partly this is because I know this conference the best (I've been
teaching workshops there for years), but also because I like the way
it's run--the casual, fun vibe of it--and because I've seen it actually
work for people, year after year, in so many different ways.
Here's 5 Reasons you should go to SCWC:
#1. Great Workshops/Excellent Teachers
The weekend is full of great workshops--on everything from writing and
editing your manuscript, to pitching, selling, & marketing your
book. All the workshop leaders are either published authors, working
editors or agents, or publishers (some are even all three!). They ALL
have something to teach you. Soak it all up!
#2. To Get Feedback
No matter how wonderful your writers group and Beta readers are, it's
good to get some more eyes (usually ears, actually) on your project. Go
to Read and Critiques and read--and listen... Find out what works, and
what doesn't. You might find some Beta readers, too.
#3. To Network with Other Writers
Writing is a solitary sport--it's good to meet others who sit in rooms
and type for days on end…You will meet others who share your interests,
and some who will introduce you to new ways of writing, thinking, and
thinking about writing. After all, these people are your TRIBE.
#4. To Meet Industry Experts
Even if you don't have Advance Submission slots set up, SCWC gives you
plenty of opportunities to meet literary agents, editors, and
publishers, not to mention successful published authors. Have a glass of
wine at happy hour or dinner or sit down and visit over coffee or
lunch. Take time to talk--not just pitch your project--and listen!
#5. To Hang Out in a Cool Place
I probably don't need to explain this one...Come on, it's San Diego. Perfect weather, fabulous setting. You are allowed to have
FUN in life, after all--even before you finish your book or get
published. Invest in yourself!
I think I've said it all...Hope to see you there. For those who live in San Diego, I'm also teaching at San Diego Writers Ink this coming weekend, both Saturday (editing workshop) and Sunday (pitch, query class). There's plenty of info on their home page.
hasta pronto!
