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ASJA's 47th Annual Writers Conference
More than 400 writers attended two session-packed days during the 2018 American Society of Journalists and Authors conference at the Sheraton New York Times Square on May 18 and 19. This year, attendees learned how to “Navigate. Motivate. Captivate.” during 33 sessions that covered how to build platforms, develop creative business strategies and reach new editors at magazines, online publications and literary nonfiction publishing companies. On Friday, which is Members Day for ASJA members, freelance journalists, authors and nonfiction writers heard from experienced speakers about the ways to grow as a writer, focus on craft, and ramp up their business at all stages of their careers. During Client Connections, one of the most popular events of the year, more than 200 members had 800 one-on-one appointments with editors and book agents to discuss ideas and new working partnerships. That night at the annual awards ceremony, ASJA honored Daphne Caruana Galizia, a Maltese journalist and anti-corruption activist who was murdered after numerous threats and attacks for her investigative writing in her Mediterranean island nation. ASJA awarded its Conscience in Media Award to her and her family, which her son Matthew — also an investigative journalist — accepted with a powerful message: Free press is necessary. Her work will continue. On Saturday, sessions sparked new connections, tips and tricks on the latest social media, tools and content marketing opportunities. The most popular sessions included strategies for making passive income as a writer, pitching personal essays to top publications, and finding content marketing clients. In the final session, several 2018 ASJA award winners who were honored the night before talked about the stories behind their work and how others can find inspiration. Throughout the conference, attendees also enjoyed keynotes from three dynamic speakers, individual mentoring sessions, and networking lunches. For new members, a welcome session, special lunch group and members lounge pulled them into the fold of the country’s leading and most prestigious association of nationally-published journalists, writers and authors. As writing and publishing careers continue to shift, writers can expect to learn more about their industry throughout 2018 with ASJA Special Interest Groups, ASJA Forum discussions, Virtual Pitch Slams and regional chapter meetings. Join us for more educational opportunities and connections this year — and next year’s annual conference in New York. Stay tuned for details about 2019! View the photos from the conference here. |
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