April 24-26 2009 - Freelance Writers: Learn from the Experts at ASJA

Professional and aspiring writers alike will get the inside scoop on new ways to carve out a successful freelance career at the American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA) Writers Conference this April. The Conference will take place at the Roosevelt Hotel in midtown Manhattan, Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26.

This year's conference, "The Writer's GPS: On Track for Success," gives tools to writers who want to succeed in a rapidly changing (and increasingly tech-heavy) market for words. Panel discussions on Saturday are aimed at three distinct groups of writers: new writers, mid-career and experienced writers. Nearly 50 panelists and speakers will cover such areas as "Freelancing 101," "Free Money for Writers" (getting grants), finding an agent, using social networking sites to get business, ghostwriting, creating a good writer's website and more. Writers seeking personalized guidance and advice can take advantage of a mentoring program providing a 30-minute session with a carefully chosen expert.

Panelists include editors from Consumer Reports, Travel & Leisure, Family Circle, Redbook, and other periodicals and website, as well as freelance contributors to a wide variety of magazines and websites, including O, Woman's Day, Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, AARP Magazine, Playboy, House Beautiful, Readers' Digest, featurewell.com, gearjunkie.com and others. Many successful authors are also in the mix to share their experience and advice.

Especially for aspiring authors, several literary agents, including Regina Brooks, who represents an Oprah's Book Club author, will take part in an interactive "Get Your Pitch Critiqued" panel. Attendees may submit one-page query letters or the first pages of proposals (250 words maximum) for in-person feedback.

ASJA, the nation's professional association of independent nonfiction writers, celebrated its 60th year in 2008. Its almost 1400 members have all met strict standards for professional achievement. Sponsorship opportunities are available to reach this influential audience. For more information about registration, sponsorship, exibiting and advertising opportunities at the 38th annual ASJA Writers Conference, visit www.asja.org/wc/.