Writer's Conference Sessions
Eight Tips for Choosing Which Workshops to Attend
Choices abound at most writer's conferences, but selecting the right sessions helps use time wisely.
During one typical hour of programming at a writer’s conference, you might have the choice between sessions on book marketing, poetry writing, setting up a business plan, crafting short stories, and finding an agent. Choosing how to spend your time might seem overwhelming at first, unless you plan ahead. Following these eight suggestions will help you narrow your choices.
Determine Your Writing Needs
1. The first thing to do is determine your individual writing needs. Do you need the most help with the craft of writing or the business of writing? You might want to attend sessions on both, but be aware of which is which. For example, “How to Write Poetry” is craft; “How to Sell Poetry” is business.
2. Determine your level of competence and attend appropriate sessions. Are you at a beginner, intermediate or advanced stage in your career? Although sessions may not specifically tell you the level, you should be able to figure it out by the subject, title, and speaker’s credentials. Even if you are advanced in some areas, try attending a beginning session in an area with which you are unfamiliar.
3. Choose between seminars and workshops. Typically a seminar features a knowledgeable speaker who addresses one subject while the audience takes notes. A workshop tends to be smaller and more interactive, and participants are usually called upon to speak, write, and read for the group. If this kind of hands-on participation does not appeal to you, stick with seminars and avoid workshops.
4. Plan sessions according to your personal energy levels. Are you a morning person? Do you get sleepy after lunch? Pick sessions that fit your energy levels throughout the day. Challenge yourself with something new or difficult when you are at your peak energy level.
Attend a Variety of Writing Sessions
5. Mix things up a little. Don’t be afraid to explore a new subject, such as writing mystery novels or some other genre, if that subject has always sounded intriguing to you. Attending a session and learning more about a subject doesn’t commit you to anything.
6. Read the speaker bios. Every conference program should list biographical information about the speakers. This information should help you decide if you have an interest in the speaker, the topic, and the style of presentation.
7. Go through the conference schedule in advance, and make notations by your first and second choices. This will save time later and allow you to have a plan in case your first choice gets cancelled at the last minute.
8. Arrive at each session about ten minutes early. This way you can meet the speaker, grab a handout before they’re gone, and choose a good seat. If you have hearing or vision problems, then sit up front. If you need leg room, then grab a chair on the end of the row. If you anticipate leaving early (or if you must come late), then plan on sitting in the back so you won’t distract the speaker or bother other people.
Even though you may plan in advance and make educated decisions regarding which sessions to attend, sometimes you’ll still make mistakes. Maybe the subject is too advanced or too basic, or the speaker’s style grates on your nerves. Remember, you’re not getting tested or graded on this, so you are free to leave at any time and attend another session.
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