I got humbled before my first writer’s conference officially started. I arrived early and found a titan of the industry just hanging out with a crowd of attentive writers. He sat and shared wisdom like he was handing out Christmas presents. Honestly, just sitting there and listening would have been worth the price of admission.  

Anyway, I sat next to a woman in her 60s who chimed in often and with confidence. Somehow, I got it in my head that she too was a brand-new writer. And I thought, she’s a little late in the game, but good for her, pursuing her dreams.  

I quickly learned the woman was a powerhouse. Not only did she have an impressive personal career outside of writing, but she was also a best-selling author. The best part? She was a faculty member, teaching the main block of classes I had signed up for.  

Like I said, I got humbled real quick. I still laugh at myself about it to this day and I remember that moment fondly. That was the beginning of one of the most impactful weeks of my life.  

If you haven’t been to a writer’s conference yet, you need to go. THIS YEAR.  

If you’re anything like me, you just came up with five excuses in your head of why you’re not ready.  

Keep reading. I have 10 facts about writing conferences that will challenge your preconceived notions.  

1. Fact: writing conferences are not just for people with a finished manuscript.  

Conferences are where you learn, connect, and find momentum. You’ll meet fellow writers at every stage of the writing journey. No one is going to ask you why you’re not published. But they might help you understand what’s holding you back. And the writing community is far more welcoming than most beginners expect. Most writers are eager to help because they’ve been there.  

Takeaway: Start attending now. This is your permission slip.   

2. Fact: Writing conferences put you in the same room as industry professionals. 

Blinding flash of the obvious, right? But did you know most conferences guarantee you one-on-one time with an agent, editor, or publisher? Not to mention the unexpected conversations that happen throughout the event. (I once met a prominent author while washing my hands in the bathroom. We ended up talking for an hour over lunch and it changed my perspective on my manuscript.) That’s why it helps to have your elevator pitch ready. Another helpful tip is to create a one-sheet you can hand out. Think of it as a quick snapshot of you and your book. Don’t overthink it. There are plenty of great examples online. 

Takeaway: Come prepared. You never know who you’ll bump into.  

3. Everyone at the writer’s conference has something to offer, including you. 

Understand that everyone at the conference was once in your position, and many currently still are. Comparison is the thief of joy. Instead of asking yourself if the person sitting next to you is a better writer or more accomplished than you, ask what you can learn from them. Some of the best advice I’ve received at conferences didn’t come from the faculty. It came from unpublished writers quietly putting in the work, sharpening their craft, and building their platform. 

Takeaway: Focus on learning, contributing and building genuine connections. 

4. Fact: Workshops are like condensed master classes.  

While every workshop has value, some will resonate with you more than others. Writer’s conferences offer classes on everything from improving craft to finding an agent or learning how to self-publish. No matter where you are in your writing journey, there will likely be sessions tailored to exactly what you need help with right now.  

Takeaway: Show up ready to take notes and ask questions. 

*Pro Tip: These are also opportunities to ask questions of the faculty members that you didn’t get to meet during scheduled appointments. Don’t underestimate how much you can learn simply by staying after a session and engaging in conversation. 

5. Writing Conferences are draining.  

Long PowerPoints, endless coffee, nonstop networking, and the nerves of pitching your book idea can leave your social battery empty. Build in small breaks throughout the day to recharge. And as much as I want you to go to the mixers, don’t do it at the expense of that early morning meeting with a publisher or agent.   

Takeaway: Take care of yourself. I take several small breaks a day, walking outside to give my eyes and brain a reset. 

6. Room temperatures can be unpredictable. 

Some venues keep it frigid and you’ll need a sweater. I’ve also heard horror stories of air conditioning going out at a Midwest conference in June. Whatever the case, you want to be comfortable so you can focus on what’s important.  

Takeaway: Dress in layers. 

7. The social gatherings are just as important. 

Listen up introverts. Like you, I’d often rather seal myself in my hotel room and type out a story than go to a mixer, game night or ice cream social with strangers. That’s why we became writers in the first place. Right? 

But conferences aren’t just about workshops or pitch sessions. They are about forging relationships and building connections. Push yourself to join the fun. You’ll meet people who may become critique partners, collaborators, or lifelong writing friends. 

Takeaway: When faced with the choice between going to bed or attending Game Night, choose the Chutes and Latters. (See what I did there?) 

10. You will be asked about your writing.  

People will often ask where you’re from and what you write. This is the standard greeting at a writing conference, and most attendees ask out of genuine interest.  

Takeaway: Have your answer ready, even if it’s “I haven’t started yet, I’m here to learn.” 

*Pro Tip: This is an excellent opportunity to practice that pitch before your big meeting with an agent.  

One last thought. You can’t do it all. 

You will be hard pressed to meet with every big name you see on the faculty list. It can be stressful to prioritize your goals. But there will be more conferences and more opportunities in the future.  

Because if you’re anything like me, you’ll leave wondering how you ever went without these conferences. Just enjoy the ride. And who knows? The woman sitting next to you just might be teaching your favorite class. 

• To view more Writing Tips check out My Youtube Channel: The Ransomed Writer

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