You’ve signed up for a writing conference. Now what?

Whether you’re polishing your first manuscript, building your freelance career, or just craving some quality time with fellow writers, a conference can be a total game-changer. Attending a writing conference can be one of the best investments you make in your writing career, as they offer opportunities to learn, network, and find inspiration. But how do you make sure you walk away with more than just a tote bag full of handouts?

I recently attended the 2025 Alabama Writers Cooperative Conference in Orange Beach, Alabama. This was my second time attending. I had the honor of being the keynote speaker at last year’s conference. Each year, I’ve left with a journal full of ideas!

Here’s how you can make the most of the first or next writing conference you attend.

Set Clear Goals

Before you even pack your favorite notebook (which is very important), ask yourself: What do I want to get out of this? Maybe you’re hoping to meet an agent, learn more about self-publishing, or simply find motivation to keep writing. Having clear goals will help you choose which sessions to attend and who you want to connect with.

My goal for this year’s AWC was to figure out what I want to focus on next in my writing career. I have SO MANY IDEAS, but I know if I try to do everything all at once, I will probably end up doing nothing.

Be a Woman with a Plan

Most writing conferences pack a lot into a short time. They are full of panels, keynotes, and workshops—so many that it can feel overwhelming. Review the schedule ahead of time and highlight what matters most to you and what’s most relevant to your writing goals.

But also, leave space for the unexpected because that’s where the magic happens. Some of the best connections and insights come from hallway conversations and spontaneous chats over coffee.

One of the highlights for me at this year’s AWC conference was meeting a woman who is a breast cancer survivor like me. We had such a great chat and have already made plans to meet up again.

Network With Purpose

Writing conferences are full of editors, agents, publishers, and fellow writers, so this is the perfect time to network, network, network! I know, networking can sound intimidating. But remember that you’re surrounded by people who love writing as much as you do. Instead of thinking of it as networking, think of it as making new writer friends. Ask people about their projects, share your own, and exchange contact info. And don’t forget to follow up after the event. You never know where those connections might lead. Networking can lead to new opportunities, writing partnerships, or even a book deal.

I connected with leaders of the Alabama Writers Forum, another premier writing organization in the state, and they want to meet to discuss ways to partner with See Jane Write.

Take Notes & Take Action

You’re going to hear so many good ideas, so jot them down! Whether you’re a pen-and-paper note-taker or a digital girlie, keep track of quotes, resources, and lightbulb moments. After the conference, set aside time to review your notes and turn them into an action plan so all that inspiration doesn’t just fade away.

I have the privilege of attending a writing retreat at the end of the month, and I plan to use some of that time to review my conference notes and strategize about what to do next

Cultivate Community

One of the most beautiful parts of a writing conference is realizing you’re not alone. You’ll meet other folks who understand the highs and lows of the creative process and who might just become lifelong writing buddies. Be open and be curious. Join conversations at meals and don’t skip the social events. And if there’s a post-conference online group, log on and stay active.

Another highlight for me at the AWC conference was a heart-to-heart chat with a writer friend I hadn’t hung out with in years. Not only was it fun to catch up, but she also encouraged me more than she probably realized.

Writing conferences aren’t just about learning craft or industry secrets. They’re about fueling your passion and reminding you why you write in the first place. Go prepared, stay open, and you’ll walk away with more than knowledge. You’ll leave with confidence, community, and fresh determination to tell your story.

My Post-Conference Journaling Prompts

The Alabama Writers Cooperative Conference gave me A LOT to think about. There were sessions on writing an artist’s statement, launching a Substack, using a road trip to structure your writing, developing sustainable writing practices and so much more.

I found myself jotting down several questions in my conference journal. I decided to turn those questions into journaling prompts that will help me with my post-conference action plan. I want to share the prompts with you because whether or not you were at the AWC conference with me, I believe these prompts can help you create the writing life of your dreams.

What about YOU informs your writing?

What is your motive for writing?

What impact do you want your writing to have?

How do you inhabit time?

What do you want more of and what do you want less of in your life?

What will move you toward freedom?

How do you need to nourish yourself?

All of life is the writing life. What does that statement mean to you? How does it shift your approach to creativity?

As you consider your writing goals, what would it mean to begin where you are?

Mark Your Calendar for the Next AWC Writing Conference

Next year’s Alabama Writers Cooperative Conference will be held September 11-13 in Birmingham, so mark your calendar! And I have news: at the end of this year’s conference, I was unanimously elected as 1st Vice President and Programs Chair of AWC. This means your girl will be in charge of planning the programming for next year’s conference! So let me know what kinds of workshops you want to see and go ahead and block off those days NOW so you won’t miss out.

Sign up for the See Jane Write newsletter to be notified about writing events in Birmingham and beyond.