Monday, June 30, 2008

League of Utah Writers

I just registered for the League of Utah Writers Conference. I think that writers conferences are invaluable for those who want to become published, or continue to grow their writing career. I've met writers at them who have become great friends and mentors, and gained invaluable contacts that later led to endorsements.

When I started submitting my first novel, I did an internet search for writers groups. I found the LUW and attended my first chapter meeting in January 2002. J. Scott Savage was the speaker that night. Annette Lyon was the Chapter President. Little did I know, but I would join their critique group that summer and eventually replace Annette as Chapter President. You can say that I jumped in with both feet.

So if you want to become a published writer, find a writers league near you and sign up for conferences in your area. Check out the speaker line-up and sign up for interviews to meet with agents or publishers. Most agents find their clients through referrals or at writers conferences.

6 comments:

Janette Rallison said...

Good networking tip!

Shirley Bahlmann said...

Sounds like great advice. I wish I had a chapter closer to me... stupid high gas prices!

Kimberly Vanderhorst said...

Lack of resources like this is one of the few things that has me regretting our choice to settle in a small town. Looks like a fabulous way to learn more about the craft.

Unknown said...

Good advice, Heather. Thanks.

Unknown said...

hi heather,
that is really cool. hey, while we were camping, we went to a community playhouse and they did a show (several of the writers in their writing group read excerpts). it was neat to hear them up on stage reading their pieces. thanks for the tip in your post here.

and you're right about that. you sometimes never know what you will do. for the longest time, i was a member of my professional group (comptrollers) and then last year, i served as the chapter president. that was an excellent experience all around.

thanks for coming by again. always nice to see you again, kathleen

Julie Wright said...

Conferences have given me so many leads to bigger and better things. Half my friends have come from conferences. I am so grateful for them.