Writing Conference at UW-Milwaukee March 7 to 9 2008

Billed as the conference where “you CAN succeed as a writer, the Sixth Annual Spring Writer’s Festival at UW-Milwaukee offers a variety of seminars for novices to the craft. I have a vested interest in this conference because my Netconcepts work colleague, Jeff Muendel who writes for a variety of publications including CNet Searchlight and Practical eCommerce, will be presenting. His seminar is one of interest to many authors, it is titled, “A Writer’s Website” and takes place on Sunday, March 9th at 9:30 a.m. Jeff works as an analyst and has a lot of expertise to share — he’s also a fiction author in his own right — so if you’re planning on paying the $269 to go, be sure to stop by and listen to his “must-see” presentation.

Jeff Muendel’s presentation is perfect for any writer, novice or pro. Here’s the synopsis of Jeff’s presentation:

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Hone your Writing Skills – Take a Free Class!

When I was going to college, online courses were not really accessible to me as a student. The channel I could go through to “try before I decide” was either the local technical college or places like the UW-Extension office, both of which you have to pay for.

One of the great debates about building a career in writing, is the question of whether or not an author, editor, or freelancer needs a formal education in the craft. I have a BA, and several of my colleagues have Master’s degrees in the field. This whole idea of “formal education” may not work for everyone (universities are not very tolerant nor kind to “genre” authors), but at the very least it’s a good idea to hone your craft and “try” things out.

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Highlights from Previous Seminars: Freelance Writing 101

Digging through the archive of handouts and seminar presentations, I thought I’d post the notes from one of the roundtables I participated in.

What is a freelance writer?

  • An independent contractor “for hire”
  • A savvy business owner
  • Has great “time-management” skills
  • Knows what they are worth
  • Has realistic expectations and goals
  • A qualified individual performing a service
  • An “expert” in their field

How do I promote myself?

    Online

  • Establish your identity
  • Follow-up emails and thank yous
  • Be professional
  • Avoid “flame wars”
  • Distinguish yourself from fans
  • Network through social media
  • Use proper “grammar” (avoid L33t or LOL-speak)
  • Referrals

    Offline

  • Non-Gaming Seminars
  • Business groups
  • Community organizations
  • Conventions
  • “Best” Time to talk to publishers
  • Dos and Donts of what to say
  • Portfolio/Resume or not to Portfolio

How do I find work?

  • Develop your Own criteria
  • What will you accept as payment?
  • What do you want to write?
  • Who do you want to work for?
  • Be realistic based on experience

The Renegade Writer

A Totally Unconventional Guide to Freelance Writing Success

Written by two freelancers who broke the rules to win the game, this handbook contains a wealth of information for writers who are frustrated by the seemingly limited ways to operate in the freelance market. It explains that freelancers can negotiate for more money and better terms without risking their careers, shows that editors are not the writer-gobbling monsters many freelancers fear, and explains how to establish and foster work relationships.

In this updated second edition there are more ideas, more rules to break, and more resources to get started, including a suite of appendixes covering topics such as contract procedures, getting paid, services for freelancers, generating ideas, and doing research. As inspiration, the book includes examples of real writers who have gone against “expert” advice and flourished. Being shy doesn’t pay, and following the rules puts a writer in a long line of other sheep; with this text as a guide, writers can step out of the herd and build a successful business in a crowded market.

Available at Amazon.com

About Me: Appearance at GenCon-Indy

In about two weeks I will be attending the 40th anniversary of GenCon Indy as a panelist with W.H. Horner from Fantasist Enterprises, and veteran freelance author, editor, and panelist James Lowder who has worked with Wizards of the Coast, Green Ronin, Eden Studios, and White Wolf to name a few. My portion of the seminar will cover self-promotion. Here are some of the highlights I intend to cover:

  • Conventions & Seminars
  • Building Contacts Online
  • Asking for Work
  • The Follow-up
  • Difficult Personalities
  • Air of Neutrality

I will be presenting for about a half-an-hour, after which we’ll open up the panel for Q&A. Handouts and other info will be provided on my end, so bring your questions if you’re in town or post here for more information.

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