Writing Conferences

Last weekend, I had a fabulous time at our annual Scottish Association of Writers Conference. I look forward to it every year as writers from groups all over Scotland meet up for a weekend of competition results, seminars, workshops, eating, talking and laughter. We even have a disco on the Saturday evening, or a Poetry Penthouse for the less energetic. I prefer to dance after all the sitting about!

But one of the most beneficial aspects of the weekend is the inspiration and encouragement we take home with us, both from attending workshops and from speaking to other writers. I had to work for my bed and board this year, as I was adjudicating a short story competition and doing a workshop. That was a real privilege as always - reading and critiquing other writing (in a constructive manner) is a very good way to learn what works and what doesn't for today's market.

Online conferences can be every bit as helpful. During the week leading up to the conference, I took part in the online workshop run by Champagne author Becka Goings. This too was inspirational and informative and we had a certain amount of friendly chat amongst the attendees. I came away from that with so much helpful advice about online promotion.

So if you get the chance to go to a writing conference, either in real life or online, it might be one of the best decisions you make for your writing career!

Rosemary (Romy)

http://ros-readingandwriting.blogspot.com
http://romygemmell.blogspot.com
Dangerous Deceit, Champagne Books and Amazon