We have been exploring ways to invest in your writing career. Building a writer’s library of resource books is a great start, but that is only one step.

What should a writer do with things she has written?

The seemingly logical answer is to submit proposals to a publisher, but that is not always the next best step.

Acquisition editors are often overwhelmed with the number of manuscript proposals they receive. In fact, many publishers do not accept unsolicited manuscripts. If they do accept such proposals, an author’s hard work (no matter how polished) can get lost in the slush pile of other manuscripts to be reviewed.

Attending a writing conference is the next step.

Actually, attending a writing conference is the best step at many, many points along the way to publication. Here are three benefits.

Learning the Craft of Writing

Even with a well-rounded library of writing resources, it is important to learn in person from seasoned authors and editors. Many conference attendees can attest to moments of suddenly understanding what a book meant about writing craft (as well as submissions).

People who are curious about the writing profession, those with some publications, and multi-published authors can learn more to polish their skills at conferences.

Networking with Other Professionals

Writing conferences offer opportunities to meet and network with others in the industry. Writers, editors, and agents connect at conferences, and often those connections are valuable for years to come.

Taking a Personal Retreat

Every Christian writer needs the opportunity to step away from the responsibilities of the day job and family commitments. A conference offers a time to focus on God’s calling to write and to spend extensive time in prayer for His guidance.

What would you add to the list? Have you attended a Christian writing conference? What benefits have you enjoyed as a result?

Many blessings on you and your work,

Carol