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March 2004

Countdown to Our Best Conference Yet

By Lisa Collier Cool

Whether you've been to ASJA's annual writer's conference before—or will be going for the first time in April—you'll find that this year's event truly lives up to its name: "Kicking It Up a Notch." That's because the program has been completely redesigned to make it even more valuable and informative to journalists and authors at every level.

One of the most exciting changes is the introduction of a special "Breaking In" track of panels specifically for writers who are new to freelancing, says conference chair Bob Bittner. "People who are just starting to sell their work can get a firm footing on the basics in jargon-free sessions tailored to their needs, so that they'll get a lot more out of the conference than ever before, without feeling overwhelmed." Among the offerings are tips on finding great ideas editors will want to snap up, selling your first article, and contracts 101.

Creating a separate "Breaking In" track also enabled the committee to upgrade the panels targeted at experienced writers, adds Bittner. "Over the past four to six years, the whole tone of the conference has been raised, and now we're taking it even higher. Professional freelancers will get a lot of information they can take home and implement immediately, with practical results." You'll have a wealth of choices, including "Join the $100,000 Club," "Break the Rules—and Build Your Business," and "The Hollywood Connection: Selling Your Book or Story to TV or the Movies."

And if you feel stuck in a writing rut—or just can't seem to move past a certain level of success—you'll find the tools and contacts you need to take the next step, whether it's moving up to more prestigious magazines or embarking on the book you've always dreamed of writing. With our lineup of 25 Saturday panels featuring representatives from Simon & Schuster, Random House, Paramount Pictures, Newsweek, Playboy, Smithsonian, and other premier markets, you'll have lots of opportunities to network. Bring your business cards, and introduce yourself to the many editors, agents, and expert panelists you'll encounter.

Over the years, I have earned literally tens of thousands of dollars through contacts I made at ASJA's conference. And relationships that began with a quick hello and handshake have ultimately resulted in my byline appearing in such publications as Reader's Digest, Lifetime, and other national magazines. So, don't be shy: Remember that the editors and agents at the conference are there to meet good writers.

You'll also gain inspiration and ideas from the many successful ASJA members sharing their insider secrets and tricks-of-the-trade as conference speakers. I've always found my fellow ASJA members to be extraordinarily generous in offering advice and editorial contacts that have helped me dramatically increase my income, and get my byline in better magazines. And it's fun to make new friends and share your accomplishments with other writers.

More good news: Our in-depth Sunday sessions have also been revamped and improved, points out Bittner. "The lineup still focuses on queries, book proposals, essays, and memoirs, but it's a lot more interactive. There will be a one-on-one essay program where you can sit down with an experienced writer and get tips on how to make your essay the best it can be." Also new are small-group roundtables with literary agents, and an intriguing role-playing workshop that give an inside look at how publishers choose books.

As usual, the conference will also offer one-on-one mentoring by experienced ASJA professionals. Back by popular demand is the Idea Marketplace, a free trade show of hot concepts from top public relations agencies, businesses, the government, and private individuals. Stop by to find ready-to-sell story ideas you can take home and pitch to your favorite editors. Other treats include a tasty luncheon, with keynote speaker Amy Dickinson, the Chicago Tribune's successor to Ann Landers; and a relaxing reception and special drawing for prizes with writer-appeal.

See you at the conference!