A great question was sent the other day, and I thought it would help explain the other side of the table, so to speak.
Steve? Why do you go to conferences? You already have a big agency with a lot of clients.
That is an excellent question and one that I get asked rather often at conferences! (Why are you here?)
(1) Teaching
I enjoy teaching and the opportunity to train writers in how this industry works. Everybody has to start somewhere, and a writers conference is a great place to learn.
(2) Learning
I learned at conferences … while on faculty! When I started as an editor in 1992, I came from the retail side of the aisle. I knew nothing about writing, publishing, or editors. But I knew books.
It was at conferences over the years where I learned the ropes. I took classes from other faculty. I sat with editors and listened to how they worked. I read the books everyone recommended. In short, I learned.
(3) Relationships
I’ve met thousands of writers over the years at conferences. Many are now successful authors, and some of those are clients!
At conferences, I look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones. Working alongside other faculty members and writers has helped build a community of like-minded people with a shared vision.
(4) A Successful Business
As mentioned, many of those relationships have developed into clients whose books are widely distributed.
Book ideas have come while sitting under a tree in a courtyard or walking along a lake. Book ideas have been sold to an editor too!
I view the writers conference as an integral part of our agency’s operations. We are out and about meeting people face-to-face.
I look forward to hearing new ideas from writers. You never know whose story or idea will click. And to hear the writer’s passion behind the idea is invigorating.
Yes, we already have many clients. But that does not prevent us from finding the next best writer. We are always on the lookout.
Your Turn
From your perspective, why would an agent go to a conference? Other than to meet you.
In these strange days, it would seem to me that strengthening the Christian writing community through the bonds of personal fellowship would be an excellent reason for an agent to attend a conference, setting an example of leadership and stewardship.
***
The shadow of the golden calf
is darkening our once-bright land
while its makers dance, and laugh
at sin they do not understand,
reaching out to call the young
into that tent where all souls die.
We must choose, and stand among
the outcasts ‘neath the desert sky
who raise their eyes unto the hills
whence will come the good Lord’s aid,
bound in worship-praise that fills
a world that now must be remade
by the faithful gathered hearts
of those playing their ordained parts.