There are a variety of writers guilds, associations and workshops that are designed to help writers improve upon their skill, learn new marketing strategies or to keep up to date on the latest electronic systems. All of these can be good in their own way and should be explored either on the internet or in person. Granted most all of them charge a fee from a few dollars to a few thousand. Does the cost make a difference? That all depends on what you are expecting from the group.
No matter what the cost is, each group has its value and it’s up to you to explore the various groups that relate to your type of writing genre and use it to your best ability. Remember, there are millions of writers all wanting to write that million dollar best seller, or that one piece of work that wins a Pulitzer prize. It may come down to a simple fact; they used and worked with an organization that helped them become better at their craft.
Another way to look at the organizations is simply as, continued education. A doctor, lawyer or any licensed professional will always do some form of continued education to keep up to date in their field of expertise. A writers group or conference is the same concept. Learn more, and become better at what you do.
Cheers,
Alan
