In a recent chat with a writer friend, we discussed the writing organizations we belong to and the benefits we get from each.
I’m a huge fan of writing organizations. As writers, it’s tempting to work in a vacuum, where you don’t have to hear other people criticize your approach, flaunt their own accomplishments, or point out that you might not be the genius you think you are. But does that isolation really make you the best writer you can be? Not likely.
And that’s an awfully negative way to look at what writing organizations can do to help you, which is probably just our negative self-talk getting the best of us again, isn’t it?
On the other hand, it’s possible to over-commit yourself and invest in too much of a good thing. I’m guilty of joining too many writing organizations and not utilizing them all to my benefit.
My friend and I looked at our lists and realized we’re getting great value from several organizations—more than enough to justify the annual membership fees. On the other hand, both of us found one organization that hasn’t kept up with our expectations, and we’ll probably let our memberships in that one lapse. (Interestingly, it was the same organization for both of us—recent changes in their leadership and programming offer less value for the genres my friend and I write in, but that doesn’t mean it won’t offer value to someone else.)
Personally, at the top of my list of “keepers” are Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers (I’ve spoken at their conferences several times), Pikes Peak Writers (I’ll be speaking at their conference in May), the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (on online group with tons of resources), and the Society for Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (geared towards writers of children’s books, including YA, which I write). There are more on my list, including others in Colorado and the Mountain West, but these are the four I engage with most frequently. They all offer both in-person and online workshops and conferences, tons of online information, and a supportive community.
Whether you’re looking to join your very first writing organization or you’ve over-joined (like me!) and are looking for the best bang for your buck, here are some pros and cons to think about.
The Benefits of Writing Organizations
Free education: Writing organizations can be a source of free or cheap education (webinars, half-day workshops, conferences, blogs, and newsletters), in many ways rivaling what you’d find in an MFA program.
Industry knowledge: The publishing industry (both traditional and indie) is a huge, complex, ever-evolving beast. Groups like RMFW let you learn from industry insiders (other authors, editors, agents, self-publishers, small presses, big publishers, book doctors, etc.) instead of having to reinvent the wheel on your own.
Connections: Writing buddies, beta readers, friends… When I moved to Colorado six years ago, I felt alone, having left my home of 40 years and all my friends behind. And then Covid hit, worsening my isolation. But I joined RMFW and began discovering my new writing community. Having kindred spirits to talk writing with is a godsend.
Platform-building: Connecting into a writing organization can help you build your network, find folks willing to join your email newsletter, meet potential readers, and expand your resume by teaching workshops, giving presentations, or contributing to the organization’s blog or newsletter.
Short story experience and publishing credits: Many writing organizations, both national and regional, publish anthologies, giving you an opportunity to submit short stories and receive editing feedback, as well as the chance to be published. RMFW’s anthology submission window is open this year until July 15, 2025. https://rmfw.org/publications/
Volunteer opportunities: Every writing organization exists purely because of its volunteers, so they’re constantly looking for help with everything from website upkeep to envelope-stuffing to door greeters. What do you get out of volunteering? The chance to build your personal writing community, feel good about yourself, and maybe even snag some one-on-one time with an agent or editor when you volunteer to pick them up from the airport to drive them to the conference. Just sayin’.
Things to Consider Before Joining
The cost: Joining one writing organization is usually cost-effective. At $30 to $100 annually, the membership cost often provides a discount on workshops and conferences (usually enough of a discount to pay for the membership). The costs only become a problem if you join a bunch of organizations and then don’t take advantage of the opportunities they offer.
Relevance to you: Not all writing organizations will offer the support and community you need at this point in your career. Some only admit authors who’ve already published a novel in their genre. Others may focus on a genre you aren’t currently writing in (such as horror, westerns, or children’s books). Some may offer in-person meetings and workshops, but you live too far away to take advantage of them. Others may offer online events, but you’ve had it with staring at a computer and are craving in-person interaction.
How to Decide: Investigate, then Curate
Do an online search for writing organizations in your area and/or genre. Ask writing friends or your social media followers which memberships they value. Then go to each organization’s website and see what they offer and whether it’s something you could reasonably take advantage of. Try out a meeting or two—you can often attend your first one for free.
Then start slow. Prioritize your list and give the first one a try for a couple of months. Participate, evaluate, and note what you enjoy about your membership. Then, use the same process whenever you feel like joining another group. Remember, you can leave and rejoin as your career needs change over the years.
Spend your cash and time wisely when it comes to writing organizations, but as I mentioned before, I am a strong advocate of belonging to at least one. (I highly recommend RMFW, naturally!) The education, insider knowledge, connections, networking, platform-building, short story publishing opportunities, and volunteering prospects are all benefits you can’t get from sitting at home, alone, staring at your blank screen.
I hope to see you at a writing organization workshop, conference, webinar, or gathering someday soon!
[Photo by Hannah Busing on Unsplash]