I’m preparing to start day two of the Cat Writers’ Association conference in White Plains, New York. I have to tell you there is nothing better than traveling a long distance to participate in a conference and then really enjoying the experience.
This is a well-run event with lots of nice surprises and perks. The attendees and volunteers, mostly cat writers, are terrific. I’ve met writers of cat stories, cat articles and cat books (both fiction and nonfiction). These are not just cat owners (some of them don’t even currently have cats). Many of them work hard for cat causes as rescue organization leaders, providing foster homes for kittens and cats and otherwise crusading on behalf of the feline population. I’ve met veterinarians who write and who also work toward the betterment of all sorts of animals— domestic and wild. I’ve met breeders, those who show cats and people involved in pet therapy programs. These are people of passion, I tell you.
When is the last time you attended a writers’ conference? Maybe you should consider it. Do your homework, though. Choose the right conference for your needs. If you want to become a freelance writer or to get more work in this area, make sure that the conference you choose has a strong freelance writing focus. Maybe you are ready to pitch a book idea. Select a conference that offers editor/agent meetings. If it is writing help and inspiration you are seeking, choose a conference that features writing instruction and time to write—a writers’ retreat…
One author I heard speak yesterday said that she landed her agent at a writers’ conference. She went there expressly to find an agent for her book in progress and was successful. The agent later helped her negotiate a contract with a name publisher. Yes, it can and does happen.
Why not spend some time over the Thanksgiving holiday week to research writers conferences in our genre, area of interest and/or region? Start here: http://www.shawsguides.com