Every single person that I talked to, no matter for how long, was telling a story. And stories are excellent ways to get inspired.

Whether for a current project or something completely new, being in community and engaging with others can be an incredible tool to spur your imagination. It’s the people that get the wheels of your mind turning, especially when both of you are in an unfamiliar environment with somewhat unfamiliar people (i.e. a work event).

So, the next time you’re at a writing conference, talk or even a happy hour, try a few of these techniques.

1) Pay close attention to how someone talks about their story

Think back to the work events you’ve been to in the past. What’s the one thing that happens time and again, without fail? The swapping of stories. Whether it’s about the work that you’re all doing, where someone is from, or how they got to where they are now (standing in front of or sitting next to you), everyone has a story. And there’s a great deal you can learn from them and apply to your own writing. 

For the very next person you meet at your next writing conference, try paying close attention to how they tell their story. What types of inflections do they use? Are they giving you a general overview or focusing in on select details? Why do you think that is? Are there any details you notice are left out of their story? Think again about why that could be. Because oftentimes it’s what we leave out that says the most about us. 

Additionally, note how they stand, where they’re facing and if you notice any sort of ticks they have when they speak. After you’ve finished with that interaction, take a few minutes to write down your observations, either on a notepad or somewhere in your phone. These notes can serve as great creative fodder for how your characters interact with one another and their environments.

2) Try telling your story differently each time you meet someone new

After you’ve done some observing of the people around you, take a look back through the list you made and note the ones that really stuck out and inspired you. Now, take your turn and try out different ways of telling your story. It could be a different tone of voice or movement of hands when you speak. Whatever it is, apply what you’ve learned and observed to your next interaction to see how your audience responds. It could be just what you need to inspire more realistic interactions in your writing. 

But take notes on yourself, too. Especially when you notice someone really responding. Are they more engaged with what you have to say after making a few adjustments to how you tell your story? Have they stepped closer to you or further away? Do they seem focused on your words and what you’re saying or are they just going through the motions of a work event? At the Writer’s Digest Conference, I noticed that those I spoke with became more engaged in what I was talking about when my tone was more passionate than when it was skewed more uncertain and intimidated. Every observation and interaction is a learning opportunity to add to the creative tools you already have. 

3) Take a writing break during the event

Another thing that ended up being really great for my creativity at this last writing conference was taking breaks during the event to be alone and write. If there were sessions I wasn’t particularly interested in, I had to learn that it was alright for me not to go and instead flex my creative muscles a different way. So, whenever that came up at Writer’s Digest, I went back up to my hotel room and took writing breaks. Got out my laptop and wrote down whatever came to me, however many words ended up on the page. During that weekend, I was able to write and work through a scene in the novel that I’d been stuck editing for a few weeks.

If you can find a chunk of time at your work event to be alone, try using it as a break to measure what level your creativity is at. You won’t always be inspired by the interactions you have or your environment, but it’s always worth it to check. So, find a space or a table where you can be completely by yourself for at least 10 minutes and just write or think. Whatever comes to your mind, whether for a current project or nothing in particular, see what comes out.

Work events are generally flush with all types of people that you can draw inspiration from. It’s the perfect opportunity for you to observe how people come together and interact with one another to give you better and more concrete fodder for the characters in your stories and the situations they find themselves in. They’re also a wonderful way to practice how you write and construct scenes and dialogue, making returning to your current projects a little easier. So, the next time you’re away on business, try working the work events and see what inspires you.

Jenn Walton is a writer, editor and storyteller based in Washington, D.C., whose fiction works are housed mainly in the speculative genre. She is currently working on her first novel project that explores, through the lens of a failing utopia, what happens when society gives in to its fear of the other. She previously wrote for a communications firm where she drafted and edited sponsored and organic content for top-tier academic institutions, Fortune 500 companies and leading philanthropic organizations that has run in The Washington Post, USA Today and the Atlantic. For more from Jenn, please visit her at her website or on Twitter.

The post Three Ways to Find Inspiration at a Writing Conference (Or Any Work Event) appeared first on DIY MFA.

The cost of travel and lodging, entry fees, anticipating the crowds of people pressing in to listen and learn, packed schedules with little down time included, and the ever-present, dreaded question, “So what are you working on right now?” can send even the most dedicated writers crawling under the bed. If you find idea of a conference experience daunting to your introverted sensibilities, or if you have a limited budget and you’re having a hard time justifying the expense of a weekend of extreme comfort-zone stretching, I want to share with you my number one writers’ conference survival tip.

Volunteer.

I’ve been to a few conferences now as an attendee, a volunteer, and a speaker, and hands down, my best experiences and most solid connections have come as a volunteer. Most conferences are desperate for reliable, enthusiastic volunteers, and they have perks programs that make giving up some of your freedom worthwhile. But in case you need convincing, here are my top 3 reasons that volunteering is the best way to attend a writing conference:

1) You get free or majorly discounted entry to the conference

This is the number one perk, in my mind. All that programming, all those connections, for just giving up a few hours of your time? Where do I sign up? Most conferences have a minimum requirement of hours and some restrictions on volunteer participation, but especially if you’re struggling with your budget, there’s no better way to go.

2) You have someone to check in with every day.

For an introvert, this is HUGE. Even if you don’t know a single person there before day one, someone will be waiting for you, ready to help you find your place. Just this little bit of accountability and external interaction can be grounding. And after a couple of days of regularly showing up and engaging in your tasks, you’ll probably have made a few friends!

3) You’ll be behind the scenes

While the attendees of a conference get caught in the hustle and bustle and can sometimes only escape by disengaging completely (aka hiding in your hotel room), volunteers have an advantage. There’s usually a “green room/volunteer lounge” set aside for the volunteers and speakers to leave personal items, or take a break from their duties. Snacks, quiet space, and the chance to run into the event’s guest of honor: priceless.

I’ve learned so much from every conference experience I’ve had. The collective knowledge and experience that a writers’ conference draws together for a weekend makes the experience worth the energy you have to expend to be there. If you’ve been struggling with how to cope with the expense both financially and to your introverted emotions, give volunteering try. You’ll be glad you did.

Elisabeth Kauffman is a freelance editor in California. Her favorite genres are YA fantasy, sci-fi, and romance. She regularly obsesses over board games, Doctor Who, and Harry Potter. Come share your ideas with her on Facebook and Twitter and on the web at www.writingrefinery.com. Also, check out her author website and her author page on Facebook.

The post The #1 Tip For Introverts Attending a Writing Conference appeared first on DIY MFA.

I worried that I wouldn’t be able to go to the conference. I didn’t know how long it would take to feel better or if I ever would. The good news is, I did get better. I made it to WDC15. Then, in 2016 I attended the Southampton Writers Conference.

They were two very different events, but what they had in common, is that they not only taught me about writing but how to manage traveling and attending conferences with a chronic health condition while still being able to enjoy every minute.

If you also live with a chronic illness and have worry or doubts about attending writing conferences, I hope these five tips can help you decide, pursue and get the most out of each event.

1) Keep Yourself Fueled

Traveling can be draining on the body, more so if you live with a chronic health condition. Keep yourself fueled with the right food from the very beginning of your trip. Consider these factors before you even step out of your house and especially if you must travel a long distance.

• What kind of healthy snacks can you bring for the trip?
• What kind of food will be available at or nearby the conference? (This is especially important if you are on a specific diet)
• Will you have a refrigerator in your hotel room?

These may seem like simple things to consider, but they can easily get overlooked in the excitement. It’s easy to assume that you will be able to find what you need along the way or when you arrive, but sometimes there are obstacles. Consider travel delays, traffic and the possibility that for some reason you may be running late and can’t stop for food.

When you arrive, there will be things to do such as checking in to the hotel and waiting in line to get your id and welcome bag. Depending on when you get there, it may take some time to get these things done.

Going to a writing conference is an inspiring and unique experience. Don’t let yourself burn out before the fun even begins.

2) Location of your hotel/sleeping arrangements

Take time to research hotel/housing options and the location landscape when deciding on conferences, so there will be no surprises when you arrive.

I booked my hotel early when I signed up for the Writer’s Digest Conference. I wanted to make sure I didn’t have to walk around New York City too much in the August heat.

At the Southampton Writers Conference, you can choose to stay at a hotel nearby, but it’s recommended you stay in the dorm rooms. What I didn’t realize is that the dorm rooms were up a hill. It was July. It was a suffocating, Long Island, make your hair frizz hot July and there was a hill!

I’m sure, if I needed assistance, there would have been no problem getting rides up to the dorm rooms. But, I was doing ok, the scenery was beautiful, I made lots of friends, and I wanted to take those strolls up and down the hill with everyone. I realized though that in the future, I should research further into the landscape if attending a similar event.

3) Packing light and your choice of electronic device

Being weighed down can deplete your energy, and we need to conserve as much as possible. Whether it’s your suitcase or your electronic device, go light.Some things to consider:
• Try to plan what you will wear each day. For WDC15, I found a cute little suitcase that rolled on all fours, and it was a life saver. But, since Southampton was a longer, I got carried away and brought a larger suitcase feeling unsure of what I would want to wear each day. It was a mistake. Bring what you need, but try to think it through and not overload yourself so your energy is not sucked up with carting around too much stuff when you travel.
• Even though you think you might make it back up to your room during the event to rest or regroup, this usually doesn’t happen. Often, even when not in a workshop, there are people mingling and nice spots to chill out at, contemplate and write. It’s fun to be in the scene and within the company of other writers. You may find that you want to soak it all up. This was my experience, and I met others who have said the same. They often didn’t get back to their room until the end of the day. So, when you leave in the morning, make sure you have what you need, but don’t overload yourself. (Also, don’t forget your medication for the day, so you don’t have to go back to your room if you don’t want to.)
• This is where your choice of electronic device comes in. A very, very light laptop or iPad will be the best option. You will have it with you all day and won’t want to be weighed down. Because most workshops are in a room with just chairs, no tables, whatever you choose to use it should be, easy to handle, quickly accessible and able fit on your lap comfortably.

4) Get to know the conference layout and workshop locations

This ties into conserving as much energy as possible, so you can enjoy, have fun, mingle and make new friends and connections.

It feels like sensory overload at first. For me, this can be exhausting. If this happens to you, I highly recommend just taking a breather to look everything over and plan.

Within the buzzing try to stop for a minute, breathe, focus, and study the map of where the workshops are. Decide what workshops you want to go to and plan it out.

5) Get physically prepared ahead of time

When I had that MS flare in the spring of 2015, I felt hopeless. It was then that I discovered a new workout. I always felt better when I exercised, but never found anything that I could stick with consistently. I had nothing to lose, and so I tried it.

I was realistic and patient. I followed the workout modifications, stuck with it, and little by little became stronger. What really kept me going was the effect it had on my symptoms, they lessened with each workout and eventually disappeared. I got better. But, it was not until after I returned home from the Writer’s Digest Conference that I realized what had also happened. I got through that weekend, traveling, carrying luggage, running around to workshops and having a great time with very little fatigue or pain If it was not for my new muscles and endurance, I’m not sure it would have gone so well.

If you can find a routine that works for you, I highly recommend it. Of course, consult with your doctor, modify workouts, take your time and believe in yourself.

I’m sure adrenaline also played a role in getting me through these events. When I returned home the busy days did catch up, and I experienced a little more fatigue than usual. Try to schedule the day off when you return home and take the time to rest, reflect and celebrate!

Linda Bernadette Burgess is a multi-passionate artist and entrepreneur.  Her business partner, who is also her husband shares these multi-passions and they have several fun projects on the horizon. She is currently working on a Contemporary YA novel and a variety of short stories.

All other free time is spent entertaining her dogs.

Visit her at lindabernadetteburgess.com

The post #5OnFri: Five Tips for Attending Writing Conferences With a Chronic Illness appeared first on DIY MFA.

But eventually, if you want to be able to share that story with others, you have to come back to it. And then, even the thought of trying to make sense of your story’s timelines and characters can seem like an impossible task.

It’s no secret, revising is hard work! The good news is, there are ways to make the process more bearable, like these 5 things we’ll talk about at my #WICon2015 Rock Your Revisions workshop.

1) How Not to Feel Overwhelmed

You can totally do this. We’ll talk about building a game plan to get you from draft zero to draft done.

2) Questions to Get you Started

Sometimes the right question can lead you to just the insight you needed to figure out where to start your revision work. We’ll list some targeted questions you can ask and brainstorm more together.

3) The Revision Pyramid

It’s all about the revision pyramid, a five layered process that will make identifying problem areas in your manuscript and implementing their solutions so much easier!

4) Resources, Resources, Resources

I have some suggestions for gathering the resources you need to help you make the revision process as enjoyable as possible.

5) Why it’s Important Not to Revise Alone

It takes a village to write a book. Seriously. We’ll talk about when and why to build your revision team and who can help you at the different stages of the revision process.

If you’ve ever dreaded opening your manuscript for the first time since you typed “the end” because you know there’s a mountain of work waiting to be done, this workshop is for you. Sign up now! 

………………

Elisabeth Kauffman is a freelance editor in California. Her favorite genres are YA fantasy, sci-fi, and romance. She regularly obsesses over board games, Doctor Who, and Harry Potter. Come share your ideas with her on Facebook and Twitter–@WritingRefinery–and on the web at www.writingrefinery.com

The post #5OnFri: 5 reasons To Attend My #WICon2015 Rock Your Revision Workshop appeared first on DIY MFA.

In the coming weeks, we’ll have a full recap of WDC 2015, including a glimpse at some of the conference’s recurring themes and a #5onFri with reasons why writers should attend next year. For now, here are some of this year’s most memorable quotes, from the authors, agents, and other industry leaders who spoke there:

“Writing is an art. It’s an intimate conversation between you and the reader.”

– Jonathan Maberry, author of the Joe Ledger series

“Let the passion for your book shine through in your pitch.”

– Alec Shane, literary agent

“The fear of worldbuilding is why we see so many similar worlds done to death. Worldbuilding is really what makes speculative fiction unique. Embrace it.”

– N.K. Jemisin, author of The Inheritance Trilogy

“‘Black or white’ advice – do this, or don’t do that – isn’t good advice. Trust your voice. Learn what’s best for you.”

– Therese Walsh, author of The Moon Sisters

“By creating comic books and reading as a kid, I learned how to tell the stories I wanted to read.”

– Tim Johnston, author of Descent

“It’s necessary to use our imagination and think creatively when it comes to selling books.”

– April Eberhardt, literary agent

“Writers don’t have control over their own stories. The stories often know where they’re going better than we do.”

– Jacqueline Woodson, author of Brown Girl Dreaming

“You are your best advocate.”

– Phil Sexton, Publisher of Writer’s Digest

“Write more. Worry less.”

– M.J. Rose, author of The Witch of Painted Sorrows

Did you also attend this year’s Writer’s Digest Conference? What were some of your favorite quotes from the event?

…………….

Sara Letourneau is a Massachusetts-based writer who practices joy and versatility in her work. In addition to writing a fantasy novel, she reviews tea at A Bibliophile’s Reverie and is a guest contributor for Grub Street Daily. She’s also a published poet whose works have appeared in The Curry Arts Journal, Soul-Lit, The Eunoia Review, Underground Voices, and two anthologies. Learn more about Sara at her personal blog, Facebook, and Twitter.

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1. Hanging at the Bar

Okay, so this is where I had some of that fun, the social hub of the “networking”, the hotel bar. It was the Marriot in Manhattan so it was too crowded, too expensive, and slow, but there was much bonding going on. Awkward first meetings turned to friendly banter which became laughing gossip about our common interests: loving to write and read romance.

2. Famous Sightings

Almost every author I admire in the romance genre was there. Many gave workshops imparting invaluable wisdom to less experienced writers. Many more were at the book signings. I fangirl-ed it multiple times, but I tried hard to remember that they’re just people like me with hopes and anxieties about their writing careers

3. Free Reads

All the major romance imprints from the big five houses and indie publishers had signings. Translation: Dozens of authors, both debut and New York Times Bestselling, in a room signing their newest books and giving them away–for free. It’s very probable I comped my entire conference fee with the suitcase full of books I took home. And not just fluff books. Books from my favorite authors whose hands I shook and whose signatures are personalized inside the front covers of each read.

4. Enlightening RWA Workshops

There were too many workshops to choose from, but I went to as many as I could, while spending as much time as I could enjoying myself “networking”.  There were craft sessions and info dumps on the business of publishing, but also inspiring discussions on tough topics. There were panels on diversity in publishing, the social stigma of romance, academic research in the romance genre, the balance of power and consent in dark romance, and many more.

5. Crucial Friends

Since going to all the workshops was impossible, I learned a lot about the ones I couldn’t attend from my new friends. We shared notes. I got recommendations from them about which workshops to go to. I followed less than half of my pre-planned schedule.

The camaraderie of those who write the same genre as me was infectious. I didn’t need nearly as much solo down time as I thought I would. I wanted to spend every minute with my new friends and the online friends I met in person for the first time, including a meetup with our DIYMFA team leaders, Gabriela Periera and Bess Cozby.

By the end of day four, I was exhausted and yet sad to go home. I haven’t been this sad for something to be over since leaving summer camp as a kid. I miss it already, but it’s made Twitter a lot more fun with so many new people to follow. I think I’ll start saving up for next year. RWA San Diego 2016, here I come.

Robin Lovett, also known as S.A. Lovett, writes contemporary romance, and her debut novel, Racing To You, will be released July of 2016. She is represented by Rachel Brooks of the L. Perkins Agency and has a forthcoming series releasing with SMP Swerve in the summer of 2017.

She writes romance to avoid the more unsavory things in life, like day jobs and housework. To feed her coffee and chocolate addictions, she loves overdosing on mochas. When not writing with her cat, you can find her somewhere in the outdoors with a laptop in her bag. Feel free to chat with her on Twitter.

The post #5onFri – Five Reasons I’ll be going to RWA 2016 in San Diego appeared first on DIY MFA.

We’re deep into summer now, and everyone’s minds are on barbecues and beach trips. But here at DIY MFA, we’re also looking forward to the fall and, most especially, Writer Igniter Con (AKA #WICon2015) on October 24-25.

This is our first ever online conference and it’s going to be a blast, with two days packed with talks from members of the DIY MFA team and the publishing industry, all hand-picked by yours truly. My goal is to bring you the most up-to-date and useful info so you take your writing to the next level.

October might seem far away, but trust me it will be here before you know it, and so will the conference. Here are the top five reasons to secure your spot now.

Five Reasons to Say YES to #WICon2015

1. The Super Early Bird Spots Are Almost Gone

In fact, there are only 12 left as of this morning! These spots are only $147 and that’s an absolute steal when it comes to conference registration. Think about it, for most conferences, registration alone can be several hundred dollars, not to mention travel, food and hotel. For fourteen talks at #WICon2015 and the chance to get your work critiqued by an agent, our super early bird registration is practically a no-brainer. But there’s a limited number available and once they’re gone, they’re gone. After that, our price bumps up to the $197 early bird rate and then on September 8, it jumps to our $247 regular registration.

2. Critiques Are Going Fast

Want tog get your work critiqued by a panel of agents? Throughout the weekend we’ll be hosting several panels with agents so you can get feedback on your log-line (i.e. pitch) or first manuscript page. There’s no extra fee for a critique spot but these spots are limited. The critique spots (especially first pages) are going fast, so act now if you want a critique. As of this post, here are where we stand in terms of availability.

• First Page Critiques (KidLit & YA) = filled
• First Page Critiques (Genre & Literary Fiction) = 2 spots left
• Logline (i.e. pitch) = 10 spots left

3. Commitment Leads to Follow-Through

When you commit to something by signing up, you’re all the more likely to follow through and make the most of that experience. Think about it: how many times do you think about doing something but then fail to follow through on it because you didn’t block out the time? How many writing sessions do you give up on because you didn’t schedule them into your calendar? The same is true for events like this. Don’t let yourself procrastinate until it’s too late. Instead, make the commitment now, and you’ll be much more likely to get maximum value out of the experience. Remember, there’s a refund policy so if disaster strikes and your plans derail, my team and I have got your back.

4. You’ll Take Your Writing to the Next Level

When you spend hours typing away at a computer, writing can feel like a lonely endeavor. That’s one of the many reasons why I created DIY MFA–because writers aren’t alone, and we can learn from each other, and grow together. One of the best things you can do for your writing career is take classes and meet other writers. Going to conferences has been hands-down the biggest, most game-changing boost for my writing career. #WICon2015 gives the benefits of a conference, without having to travel or book a hotel. It’s two days of intense networking, learning and growing together, all from the comfort of your own computer. At the end, you’ll have a plan so you can get back to your desk, back to writing, but with a few more tricks up your sleeve, and a few more writing buddies!

5. There’s Something for Everyone

Saturday’s schedule is packed full of craft advice from agents and speakers. Are you a beginning writer, with a few chapters of a novel stashed away, or a manuscript from NaNo that you’re not quite sure what to do with? Then you will love these sessions. From outlines to revision, we’ll cover all the essentials and fundamentals so you can write the best book possible. If you’re a more advanced writer with a submission-ready manuscript or a book coming out, our day of craft talks will help you dig deeper and really get the most out of the book you have.

Sunday will focus on the business of writing, from marketing to building a platform, and protecting yourself and your work. If you’ve already got a book ready to go, these sessions will walk you through through all the things you need to know about publishing. The business stuff isn’t just for advanced writers, though. I firmly believe that writers should have their eye on the horizon and know what lies ahead, so for beginners those sessions will give you a crash course on what to look forward to as you grow in your career.

All in all, #WICon2015 will be a fun-filled weekend and I can’t wait.

So why wait? Spots are going fast!
Sign up for #WICon2015 now:

The post #5OnFri: Five Reasons to Sign up NOW for #WICon2015 appeared first on DIY MFA.

Whether you’re just starting out as a writer or you’re an old pro, attending a writing conference can be more than a little intimidating and overwhelming, especially if you’re something of an introvert, like me. In this episode I’ll share with you the #1 thing you need to do at a conference in order to propel your writing career to epic heights. I’ll also share my top tips for getting the most out of a conference before, during and after the event. You’ll also learn my simple 4-step formula for how to talk to and connect with anyone, from fellow attendees to bigwig agents and publishers. Finally, I’ll let you in on the biggest mistake that writers make when attending a conference, and show you how to avoid this major pitfall.

Ready? Let’s dive in!

First and foremost, at any conference you attend (and really in all areas of your life) you need to be present. This is the #1 thing you can do at a conference to get the most out of your experience. You have to show up so that good things can happen. This means more than just physically being at an event. Push yourself to be out there, whether that’s meeting other attendees, agents, and speakers, or posting about your experience at the event on your blog or on social media.

“The more you show up, the more people will remember you.” @DIYMFA

Tweet this.

If you can’t attend events because of budget or distance, get involved locally. Attend writing groups and connect with people. And if you can’t find any local events, get online. There are a number of great virtual writing events hosted each year. Find out how you can participate.

While you’re at the conference, it’s important to BE PRESENT as well. Don’t waste time thinking about what is coming next or worrying about what happened earlier. Be in the moment.

Pro tip: Take notes. Even if you already know the information being presented, note-taking is a great way to BE PRESENT and keep your mind focused on what’s going on right now.

Finally, be genuine in all of your interactions. Don’t network for the sake of networking. Take your time, connect with fewer people, and connect more deeply. That’s the best way to make a lasting impression and to make real contact.

How to be successful before, during, and after a conference

Before

• Do your homework. Research the speakers and the conference schedule and plan out who you want to see and what other talks you want to attend.
• Follow the speakers and agents who will be attending the event on Twitter. Be connected to the buzz around the conference and keep up with current topics surrounding the event.
• Be prepared. If you’re going to pitch to agents at an event, make sure you’re ready. Memorize your pitch and know it well. You want to put your best foot forward. Also, know who you’re pitching to. Never pitch to your #1 agent first. Warm up on your #4 and #5 agent picks so that you get the jitters out and a little bit of practice before you pitch to your #1 choice.

During

• Don’t be “that guy.” You know the one. The one who asks questions that benefit only himself, the one who takes up all the speaker’s time and doesn’t leave room for anyone else. It’s easy to NOT be that guy. Just remember your common sense and your manners.
• Ask POWER questions. A good question is broad enough to help others while still addressing the specific problem you have.
• Don’t just network, CONNECT. Networking is all about you and what you can get out of a relationship. Connecting is about the other person, too. Here’s a 4-step technique you can use to build genuine connections in just a few minutes.

1. Pay them a specific and genuine compliment.
2. Ask an insightful question (this shows that you’ve been paying attention).
3. Make a small ask. (Usually I ask for a business card or for the opportunity to follow up with them later.)
4. Say thank you and get the heck out of there. This entire interaction should take less than 3 minutes!

After

• Follow up! Don’t wait too long to follow up, but don’t follow up too soon and expect a response, either. The sweet spot is usually about 1-2 weeks after an event. The only exception to this rule is, if you’ve participated in a pitch slam and received a request for more pages, a full manuscript, etc., don’t send your material until you’re absolutely ready.

Finally…

The biggest mistake writers make when attending a writing conference is that they focus way too much on getting published. Focus on improving your craft and making genuine connections. Publishing is a natural side-effect of great writing and great connections.

Resources:

So far, I’m scheduled to speak at these three conferences in 2015. If you attend one of these events, make sure to come and say “hi” so we can connect!

I’m thrilled to be speaking at The Write Stuff, presented by the Greater Lehigh Valley Writer’s Group. This is my first time at this specific event, but just from looking at the speakers line-up it looks to be FANTASTIC! Registration closes MARCH 9 so if you’re interested in this event, sign up now.

Bess–the DIY MFA web editor–and I are co-presenting at CAPA-U, an event hosted by the Connecticut Authors & Publishers Association. This conference also looks amazing,. I’m honored to be included among these great speakers and can’t wait to attend this event for the first time.

Finally, I’ll be giving several talks at one of my favorite conferences of the year: the Writers Digest Conference in New York City. Also, the awesome folks over at Writer’s Digest have put together a special coupon code for DIY MFA attendees. Use the code DIYMFA15 when you sign up to get $25 off the registration.

Using this code will also let me know how many DIY MFA-ers will be attending the event, so that I can plan a special meet-up for our community. (Please note, if you use this code DIY MFA will get a small commission at no cost to you. This will help defray the cost of whatever special bonus I plan for our group.) Early bird pricing ends March 9, so don’t wait!

Link to Episode 32

(Right-click to download.)

If you liked this episode…

Head over to iTunes, leave a review, and subscribe so you’ll be first to know when new episodes are available. Also, if you know anyone who might enjoy this podcast, please share!

Until next week, keep writing and keep being awesome.

The post Episode 32: Writing Conference Survival Guide appeared first on DIY MFA.

For those of us in the romance genre though, the Romance Writers of America is where it’s at. The national organization has over 10,000 members with more than 145 local and online chapters. Their national conference has over 2,000 attendees, and as a member of less than a year, I am still overwhelmed by their website. Yet I have an insatiable craving to learn more about the art and business of writing, and so I decided to start small at the New Jersey chapter’s Put Your Heart in a Bookconference.

Not Just Romance

Before the non-romance writers tune out, remember that writers are writers and novels are novels, and it was two days of just that: professional talk on writing and selling novels. Though the pervasive air of generosity may have been romance related.

From the Start

At the “First-timer’s Workshop”, veteran bestselling author, Christine Bush graced us with encouragement to make friends. “Romance writers care about each other,” she said. “They love other authors because they love to read their books.”

In the pre-conference workshop, Roxanne St. Claire presented us with handouts that compared first and final drafts of scenes from her bestselling novels. Talk about bravery! I wouldn’t show my first draft to my best friend, let alone a room full of writers. She was so eager to answer questions that by the end of the weekend, she lost her voice.

 Networking

People talk about “networking” at conferences. I hate that word. It makes my stomach clench until I cower behind my laptop in the hotel room, but as Christine Bush said, I decided to think of it as making friends. From the bravery of a glass of wine at the cocktail hour, I chatted and laughed with bestselling authors and gained invaluable confidence that I belonged among these people. The confidence girded me for pitching my novel the next morning, which the comforting volunteers made a stress-free experience.

 Quotable Moments

Prioritizing the workshops was difficult. I wanted to split myself in two. Here are some tidbits I picked up from my solo adventures:

• “Each scene is a mini-book: beginning, middle, climax & hook.”-Roxanne St. Claire, From Sleeper to Keeper: Revisions that Transform Every Scene of Your Book
• “Look for details that blossom: the single detail that says it all.” -Anne Frazier Walradt, Tips for Writing the ‘Can’t Put It Down’ Novel
• “Whether you write paranormal or contemporary, figure out the magic in your book. Then, what is the cost of that magic?” –Kristen Painter, World-Building through a Series
• “Stick to emotional truths and character decisions that make sense, even when those decisions are the wrong ones.” –Nisha Sharma, GMC in the YA Novel
• “Set goals for yourself. Print out a copy of the New York Times bestseller list, white-out a name, and put yours in its place. Hang that list on your wall.” –Susan Mallery, Keynote Speaker

The only thing that saddened me was the billing of the conference as specifically romance. The workshops were on general novel writing and the business of being a writer, and I wished my friends who write YA and paranormal had felt more welcome. They would have had a great time. Though alternately, the attendance was majoritably, female, and the editors and agents attending were interested in primarily romance submissions.

Fiction writing is at its essence romantic,whether it’s elements of romance, love in friendship, love of the self, or even a struggle in love’s absence. The love we put in our writing reflects outward, not only at our readers, but at fellow writers when we feel safe to express it. I experienced that over these two days.

I’m sure I’ll go back next year, to connect with the same writers and to hear the hot topics of 2015. I’m grateful for the positive first time experience. Maybe I’ll go to the national conference with my friends next summer. I’m told RWA in Manhattan is not to be missed. Though I’ll look forward to the cocoon of New Jersey’s chapter conference in the fall, having writer friends is where it’s at for me. I can’t find those on my laptop no matter how much I love my characters.

Robin Lovett, also known as S.A. Lovett, writes contemporary romance, and her debut novel, Racing To You, will be released July of 2016. She is represented by Rachel Brooks of the L. Perkins Agency and has a forthcoming series releasing with SMP Swerve in the summer of 2017.

She writes romance to avoid the more unsavory things in life, like day jobs and housework. To feed her coffee and chocolate addictions, she loves overdosing on mochas. When not writing with her cat, you can find her somewhere in the outdoors with a laptop in her bag. Feel free to chat with her on Twitter.

The post Loving Writers: Two Days with the NJ Romance Writers appeared first on DIY MFA.

This is one of the best conferences around, and I’ve been to A LOT of conferences so that’s saying something. To give you an idea of how much I love this event, in 2012 I braved the January snow to go to this conference while *ahem* 9 months pregnant. In all fairness I live in NYC so all it meant was taking a cab crosstown, but still that’s how badly I wanted to go.

What I love about Writer’s Digest is that it inspires action. Every time I leave this conference I’m pumped and motivated to get to work on my writing. I always get tons of practical advice and actionable tips, but also just enough inspiration to push me to follow through. In a way, you could say I’m the poster child of what a writer can achieve through this event. After all, it was at Writer’s Digest 2011 where I met one of my mentors and got that first push I needed to start DIY MFA.

Why Attend a Conference?

Time and money are invaluable to everyone, but most especially to writers. So many of us struggle to fit writing around day-jobs as well as family, friends and other obligations. Even full-time writers find it’s a tug-of-war to get words on the page. This is one of the reasons I founded DIY MFA–as a way to make writing work on your time and budget, because not everyone can take out two years to attend an MFA program.

Still, there’s one thing that MFA programs still have going for them and that’s the community aspect. As writers on the do-it-yourself track, it can be hard to find like-minded friends who understand what this writing life is all about. It’s also a challenge to meet people in the book industry like agents, editors and industry pros who can help you make that publishing dream a reality.

Conferences are a great way to supplement your writing life and help you make those important connections. Here’s a few reasons why:

1. Meet other writers — Conferences usually draw people from all over the United States and, indeed, the world. You’ll find other writers in your genre, at your level, and from your area. It’s a great way to swap stories, exchange advice and maybe meet your next critique partner! I myself have met several writers at the Writer’s Digest Conference who have become trusted colleagues and close friends.
2. Meet professionals — At writing conferences, agents, editors and writing experts teach the classes so you can hear straight from the experts. The speakers also mingle with writers at lunch and in-between sessions. Conferences are a great way to meet the speakers and make connections, whether you’re just starting out, looking for an agent or marketing your published book.
3. Learn — Conferences have so many classes to choose from and Writer’s Digest is no exception! Many conferences have different tracks, for fiction writers, non-fiction writers, new writers, experienced authors and everyone in-between. You can craft the perfect learning experience and focus on only the topics that apply to you.
4. Be Inspired — We are often toiling alone at our desks. Writing conferences are a great way to step away, draw inspiration from other writers, and refuel. You’ll leave bursting with new ideas and a new drive to write.

Why the Writer’s Digest Conference?

Writer’s Digest is a particularly fabulous conference for many reasons. Here’s three particular to this year:

1. Eight New York Times Bestselling authors — Harlan Coben, Kimberla Lawson Robey, Jacquelyn Mitchard, Dani Shapiro, Cheryl St. John, Dan Hampton, Barry Lyga and Hugh Howey will be speaking at the conference this year.
2. Four Different Tracks — There’s something for every writer. Getting Published, Platform and Promotion, Craft and Self-Publishing. You can plan your schedule to best suit your needs and only attend sessions that are relevant to you. At the same time, I strongly recommend going to one session in each track, to give yourself a well-rounded conference experience.
3. The Pitch Slam — This is Writer’s Digest’s signature event. More than 50 agents and editors are slated to be on hand scouting for new talent. This is chance for you to get face-time with an industry professional and talk about your book. Even if you’re not ready to be published, it’s a great chance to practice and hone your pitch.

On a personal note: I pitched the DIY MFA book concept at this conference in 2012 and it was the overwhelming response that gave me the confidence to approach my current agent with the proposal. Even if you don’t find your agent during the Pitch Slam, it’s a fantastic way to get fast feedback on your concept and get a sense of whether you’re going in the right direction.  It’s also great practice for talking about your book, which is something you’ll have to do a lot once you’re published.

If you’re going to the Writer’s Digest Conference, don’t miss my session on the Seven Steps to Stronger Middle Grade and YA Novels. Even if you don’t write children’s books or YA, the 7 Steps will totally apply. Also, leave a comment below letting me know you’ll be there so I can look for you. I LOVE meeting other writers!

Also, as a special bonus for DIY MFA readers, if you sign up using my code, WDSPEAKER when you register, you can save an extra $50.

Hope to see you there!

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