9 Science-Backed Tips for Making the Most of Any Conference

By Anne Chase
Posted 7/30/2024

As writers, we plunge our characters into extreme situations without hesitation. But in real life, we might find new experiences—even the logistics and uncertainties of a writers’ conference—a bit daunting.

While new situations in real life can be stressful, they also can lead to amazing personal growth and fulfillment. A 2020 study from Cornell University, for example, found that having new experiences can boost our happiness, self-esteem, and confidence—and even our overall life
satisfaction. This was found to be true at every stage: before, during, after the experience.

The Windup…and the Pitch! Part 1

By Janet W Butler
Posted 7/30/2024

One of the more terrifying aspects of any writers’ conference is that moment when we’re face-to-face with an editor or agent, and they say, “So. Tell me about your work.”

I’ll bet your heart beat a little faster just reading those words. Right?

Sure, it’s scary to sit down and talk about your writing. And it’s also hard for many of us.

Let’s face it: if we were bubbly, talkative introverts, we probably wouldn’t be writers in the first place! So, how about a few tips to make the process less terrifying?

You asked; we answered. Here we go!