Taylor University's Professional Writers Conference takes place every July and is a great opportunity for authors to connect with each other, network, and learn more about different areas of writing. Taylor Professor Donna Arthur Downs says many alumni come back each year to speak or teach. Although its a smaller conference, she says it covers all types of writing and even offers opportunities to meet one-on-one with authors and industry professionals.
Downs strongly encourages writers to attend in-person conferences as they are crucial for networking and figuring out where your writing fits into the publishing world. Most conferences offer opportunities to meet and talk with various professionals such as editors, agents, authors, and publishers, which can be a great way to get endorsements and mentorship.