The conference brings together writers from all nonfiction specialties (consumer, trade publications, custom publications, and memoirs), editors, agents to take part in great seminars and individual opportunities. During the general session days on Saturday and Sunday, you'll be able to schmooze with editors, established writers, and other experts to help you sharpen your writing, marketing and technological skills.

On Saturday and Sunday, you'll also have full access to 28 workshops and panel discussions (of varying lengths) geared toward writers in every stage of their career (from just starting out to advanced). Some will offer a quick burst of information from an insightful panel of editors, agents and writers. Other, longer sessions will give you the chance to ask questions and talk through ideas with an agent, editor or fellow writers.

During the conference, you'll learn how to make the most of social networking, make big bucks selling reprints, prepare to be the interviewee (to promote your work) and gather trusted tricks of the trade to organize your research, notes, etc. Plus you never know what editor or writer you'll bump into in the elevator or sit next to at the Saturday luncheon.

If you're interested in membership, there's no reason to wait until next spring to apply for membership and take advantage of all the great members' day features.

Friday's members-only sessions will cover the crucial skills needed to succeed in today's tricky marketplace like:

• Personal pitch. Get one-on-one face time with editors from the top tier publications (like parents, Glamour and Woman's Day), or meet with book editors and agents from all genres and specialties.
• Attend Magazine Scoop sessions packed with series of editors from a variety of markets who will share inside, in-depth details about their publications. These editors are all currently hiring freelancers -- and paying them at least $1 per word.

The conference home page is here or at ASJAConference.org.

Click here for video statements about the 2007 conference.

Other comments about recent conferences:

"I learned a ton from this Conference! Not only the importance of networking, but also how to go after lucrative markets."
--Lindsay Martell, New Mexico

"I had a great, great time at the conference. This particular one was the best conference for nonfiction writers that I've ever attended."
--Kristin Ohlson, Ohio

"If you are writing your first book, or even if you are thinking about it, the ASJA conference is the place to be. It's content-rich and user-friendly."
—Deborah White, MD

"This was the best conference ever! As a veteran ASJA member and conference attendee, I expected I'd pick up a new tip or two. But no! Every session gave me new, practical information I can put into practice immediately, and contacts that are likely to change the course of next year."
—Joan Price, CA

"The conference jumpstarts and revitalizes seasoned writers. It's a great opportunity to learn."
— Marcia Schonberg, OH

"I felt an attitude of respect and collegiality from all the panelists and attendees. Thanks!"
—Deborah Lyons, PA

"This was my first ASJA conference. I'm always skeptical when organizations claim that endless opportunities exist for networking and meeting agents. I was surprised and pleased with the ease of networking and the friendliness of so many writers, editors, and agents. Before noon, my book proposal was in the hands of a very interested agent!"
— Tom DeWolfe, OR

Two great speakers for 2010. Click here for more information about Peter Shankman and Liz Holzemer.