ACFW Conference 2013–Keynote speaker & author Robin Jones Gunn
If you write and you’re serious about publication, listen up: writing conferences are a must.
At some point in your career you’ll have to decide which conference best suits your needs, but if you are serious about furthering your craft and honing your skills, this is the best way to do it.
There is nothing like learning, growing, and networking with fellow writers in a venue specifically geared toward this.
Yes, depending on the size of the conference, you may be forced to step out of your comfort zone.
Conferences may challenge you to do something new.
They might make you see things in a new way or enlarge your perspective.
Additional reasons writing conferences are necessary to your craft:
- Multiple ways to learn. For instance, the ACFW conference (one of the largest) draws approximately 700+ attendees each year, and many of those in attendance are published authors who also teach. There are dozens of ongoing workshops throughout the day and evening—a buffet of classes taught by experts to meet all levels of writing in various genres.
- Growth. No matter what stage you’re at in your career, growth is essential. Improving upon your craft will always be necessary. When a writer/author resists learning or adapting to change, getting left in the dust is just a matter of time. Making a great thing better rarely goes out of style.
- Improves self-confidence. In your craft and in the company of your peers. The workshops will teach you craft and execution. Networking with other professionals prepares you for the public arena. Learning, making friends, and understanding industry dos and don’ts are integral to success. (And note: if a faux pas happens, don’t sweat it! Don’t let it paralyze you. Own it, learn from it, and move on! Part of the process.)
- Networking—seeing old friends and making new ones—as well as meeting agents, editors, and industry professionals under one roof is a huge plus. Monthly writers groups are great, but there’s no comparison between a two-hour meeting and a four-day (or in some cases, a week-long) conference. The atmosphere is completely different.
- Affirmation. Since writing is a solitary profession, it’s easy to slip into Am I really a writer? mode. Mingling with your peers (whether 700 or several dozen) at a writing conference reaffirms your calling. For days on end, you’re completely immersed in learning craft, talking craft, and breathing craft. It’s exhilarating! And everyone there get’s it!
If you’re not sure a large conference is for you, not to worry. Start with something smaller. Check out events in your area as a way to get your feet wet.
If you write Christian fiction, however, please don’t let the size of the annual conference intimidate you. Because of a schedule conflict I won’t make it to this year’s conference, but I hope you do!
I will say this is one of the greatest groups of writers you’ll ever meet. This year’s keynote speaker is the talented and prolific Lauraine Snelling.
Speakers in recent years have included Tracie Peterson, Michael Hyatt, and Robin Jones Gunn. All tremendous!
Whatever conference you decide to attend, go with an open mind and a receptive heart.
You won’t believe how much you’ll learn!
***
Here are some links you should check out:
The ACFW Conference and YOU–15 Tips … My favorite hints if you’re planning on attending this year or in the future.
ACFW Conference 2013 (Part 1) … A recap of last year’s conference, complete with photos!
ACFW Conference 2013 (Part 2) … More fun stuff!
10 Things You Should Know about Christian Fiction Novelists … Facts and fallacies
PLEASE SHARE
Committed to the writing craft? Then it’s time to get serious!
5 Reasons You Should Attend a Writing Conference
Why Writing Conferences Are Necessary to Your Craft
Do you attend writing conferences?
What’s your favorite tip?
What steps are you taking to advance your career?
Here’s to your success!
Blessings Always,
Comments 4
I’d dearly love to attend a conference – or several – but finances don’t permit, and health makes travel hard.
But it’s nice to hear about the great experiences people had.
Author
Andrew, I realize your health has to take precedence just now. But… I’m still praying you’ll be able to attend ACFW one day.
I know conferences are a huge financial commitment—I usually try to set aside a small amount each month in my “conference fund.” (And I know many conferences have scholarships available. ACFW does.)
I LOVE acfw! Love it. And I agree with everything you’ve said about conferences.
I think another great step for writers is going to smaller retreats. My first wade into the writing industry waters was a My Book Therapy retreat in 2009. By far, one of the absolute best things I ever did for my writing. It prepared me in so many ways and I helped me feel less of a newbie when I attended my first acfw in 2010.
Author
Melissa, I agree—smaller retreats are indeed a way to dip your toe in and acclimate to bigger venues. And I’ve heard such wonderful things about the MBT retreats! One thing I forgot to mention in today’s blog was my recommendation for conference attendees to become active on newbie loops (if available) prior to attending conferences. I know ACFW has one and others probably do, too. Also, when I attended my first ACFW conference in 2011, there was a newcomers’ session I went to before ACFW officially kicked off. I think they still do that and it was super informative and it helped ease last minute jitters.
I’m going to miss you this year!