Why Should I Attend a Writing Conference?

by Valerie Ipson

I remember my first writing conference. I was nervous. I wondered if it was worth the money. But it turned out to be one of those *BIG SIGH* moments, where I felt surrounded by others that were doing what I was doing. Of course, I felt like a brand new guppy in a pond of experienced swimmers, but I loved just being around other writers and learning and laughing with them, being inspired by them. Years later it is still a highlight to attend a conference and laugh when people think I am experienced and know what I'm doing. And it is definitely worth the money to establish those relationships within the writing/publishing community.

I came across Susan Denney's Ten Great Reasons (plus one) to Attend a Writer's Conference at writing-world.com.

Here are a few of them, but please click on the link and read the whole list. They're good.

You will meet other writers.
You will learn something.
You will get energized.
You will learn more about different genres.
You may find a new market for your work.
You will improve your professional effectiveness.
You will be inspired.
You will meet editors and agents.

I'm betting you'll find the ANWA Writer's Conference (link on the left side bar) will deliver on several of those reasons for you personally this weekend.