Concerning Conferences: A noob’s thoughts on time, worth, and industry

It’s our honor to introduce new victim blogger, Josh Dorne, who you might’ve met at the Colorado Gold.

Take it away, Josh….

Let’s pretend, for one second, that I know what I’m talking about. For our current intents and purposes, it doesn’t matter. I mean, come on! This is the Internet. But as of this writing I’ve only just attended my second ever writing conference: Rocky Mountain Fiction Writer’s, Colorado Gold 2016. So let’s just say I’ve got some learning to do. That being said here’s my perspective on writing conferences from the view point of a relative newcomer. At thirty-eight years old, I’m a bit late to the party. But regardless if you’re younger, older, or simply just prefer words to things like real-life social interaction, a writer/author should always be moving forward in his or her writing career. Yes. It’s a career. Maybe even a life choice…possibly an ill-advised one. But if you’re reading this it’s probably too late for you, so let’s get started.

Is a writing conference worth your time?

Short answer…yes. Or no. Possibly, maybe. In the grand scheme, a weekend (as most conferences tend to last) is not a significant period of time. And if you’re new or struggling (like me) in this highly competative industry where thousands of books are self published each day, and the traditionally published duke it out Thunderdome style, this is something you should consider including in your publishing/writing journey. Why? The answer’s simple: Networking. A content loaded word that strikes fear into the hearts of men, women,  and whatever gender I might be by the time this posting is done. But something to remember: Everyone you meet at a conference is in a similar boat to you. Not only are conversations extremely easy to start, i.e. “What do you write?” “Are you published?” But the contacts and the people you meet are, in themselves, worth the price of admission. In my first conference alone I met two great people (and many more besides) whom I hope will be in my life and share my publishing/writing journey for many years to come.

Is a writing conference worth the money?

This question is more difficult, as is putting a price on things that are subjective depending on your position in life. Nothing can be promised inside of a conference. An agent connection or book deal cannot be guaranteed, nor should you expect one. The main things you can expect to get out of a conference are three-fold: connections (with other writers, agents, and editors), learning (such as how to write a bestseller, or the 3 Act plot structure), and experience (pitching, querying, and writering). I don’t know about you, but before my first conference, not only did I have no idea how to query, but the thought of it sent my hizzie into a complete and total tizzie…because I’m hip, and with it.

So, is a conference worth it or not?

The answer to this is ultimately going to be up to you. Different people will take different things from the same experience. But if like me you’re new to writing, new to publishing, or just need a new perspective from which to chase this elusive career choice, then for me the answer is yes. If you’re expecting a miracle, or to be discovered and become the next JK Rowling, then it’s possible that your expectation might need a slight (or drastic) adjustment. But if you want the opportunity to learn from people directly involved in the industry, speak to successful authors who’ve gone through what is currently keeping you up nights, and meet some cool people in the exact same boat you’re in and possibly make some friends who you’ll have for years to come? Then take the plunge and register for a conference near you today! You might only regret it a little bit. And that’s nothing if not the dream.