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The Willamette Writers Conference

Five Reasons for You to Attend

The 42nd annual Willamette Writers Conference is the weekend of August 5, 6 and 7th. This will be my sixth year at the conference. Here’s why I think you should attend too.

The Willamette Writers Conference offers:

1) Close to a 100 workshops geared to every type of writer at every level. There are workshops for developing your craft: “Dramatic Dialogue” and “Creating Three-Dimensional Characters.” And workshops for specific genres and types of writing such as “Picture Book Pacing and Poetry,” “Anatomy of a Magazine Article,” and “Blogging 101.” There are agent panels and workshops on the business of writing from “Catching an Agent’s Attention” to “Using Twitter to Grow Your Business.” Wherever you are in your writing and whatever style of writing you do, you’ll find the information you need to take your career to the next level.

2) A golden opportunity to pitch your manuscript to agents and editors. Over forty literary agents and editors, plus Hollywood film managers, agents and producers will be there to hear your pitch. You have a choice of meeting with them one-on-one for ten-minutes or in twenty-minute group sessions. What better way to meet an agent and establish a relationship.

3) Networking with other writers. Where else are you going to meet over 900 writers who are serious about their craft? This is one of the largest writing conferences in the world. At last year’s conference I met several writers and we started a critique group.

4) The latest information, news and trends in writing and publishing. The ever-changing industry has even the most established writers shaking their heads, not knowing which way the winds of change will blow. The Willamette Writers Conference puts you on the front line of the publishing industry. Agents, editors and instructors discuss trends they are seeing, what’s hot and what’s not, and the most recent developments in e-publishing and Internet marketing. Keep your ears open and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Instructors, authors, producers, agent and editors are there to help.

5) Inspiration. Probably the most important thing you’ll walk away with is a renewed “fire in the belly.” There is something about being in a room with over 900 fellow writers. The energy is electrifying!

Whether you’re just starting out as a writer or you have a manuscript ready to publish, the Willamette Writers Conference can help you achieve your dreams.

Registration opens soon. See the Willamette Writers Conference home page for more details and to register. If you plan to pitch to agents and editors and/or film producers, I encourage you to sign up as soon as possible as these slots fill up fast.

Attending a writers’ conference is a big investment in your career. In the coming weeks, I’ll share tips for maximizing your experience at the Willamette Writers Conference – everything from what to bring to how to prepare your pitch. Join the mailing list (in the upper right hand corner of this site) so you don't miss these important posts!