How to Make the Most of a Virtual Writing Workshop or Conference

The reality of the time we’re living in has caused most in-person events to be sidelined until it’s safe for us to again gather in groups. Because the risks of travel and physical interaction are high, event postponements and cancellations have become the new norm — with virtual formats becoming the go-to solution. For the safety of attendees, speakers, and staff, writing workshops and conferences are rapidly converting at least part of their planned content to what they hope will be a uniquely immersive and engaging digital experience, many with either reduced or free registration.

Depending upon event scale, some have opted for a hybrid meeting, comprised of socially distanced in-person programming as well as virtual, while others have decided to go completely online. This often means greater access to virtual components such as panels and readings via livestreaming to meet the needs of not only those who already registered for an event, but perhaps new online attendees. Writers can delve into sessions they otherwise might not have from the safety and comfort of their own homes. And, it’s a chance to be with a community of like-minded individuals in a time when people are missing that interaction.

While webinars and video broadcasts have been around for years, the COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated a global crash course in becoming tech-savvy as virtual meetings have almost completely replaced both modest and large scale in-person participation. Although some may at first be intimidated by the technology, many platforms are very easy to use. Some events offer a “tech check” to familiarize attendees with the process and make sure they’re comfortable. And for those who prefer to just listen to sessions, there is the option to simply dial-in with your smartphone and bypass the computer.

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—Writer's Digest | Nov/Dec 2020