Writing Events – Are They for You?

If you’re new to the scene or if you’ve been hesitant to take the plunge, this blog is for you. We’re going to break down what writing events are all about, how to prep for them, and how you can excel while you’re there.

Writing is often a solitary pursuit. You’re hunched over your desk, fingers dancing across the keyboard, lost in your own world of words and imagination. But let’s face it: as much as we love the quiet, there’s something about putting your work out there, sharing it with others, and feeling the energy of a room (or a digital audience) that can spark a fire you didn’t even know you had.

Writing events—from open mic nights to online festivals—are an incredible way to step outside your comfort zone, showcase your work, and connect with other writers. But are they for you?

What Are Writing Events?

Writing events come in all shapes and sizes, but at their core, they’re opportunities for writers to gather, share their work, and celebrate the art of storytelling. Some of these events are live—like an open mic night or a writer’s workshop—while others are digital, like online festivals and virtual readings. Each event serves a different purpose, but they all offer one thing in common: the chance to put your words out there and engage with an audience.

Open Mic Nights: These are informal, often lively events where writers—be they poets, novelists, or short story enthusiasts—read their work aloud to a live audience. It’s a chance to experiment, get feedback, and find your voice in front of others.
Writer’s Workshops: These tend to be more structured, focusing on improving your craft through group feedback, discussions, and critiques. You’ll often find workshops that cater to different genres or specific writing techniques.
Online Writing Festivals: These digital events are a bit of everything—a mix of live panels, virtual readings, interviews, and even pitch sessions. Online festivals have exploded in recent years, offering writers the chance to attend from anywhere in the world.
Literary Panels and Readings: These events are often held at book festivals or within writer communities, featuring authors or industry professionals discussing topics related to writing, publishing, or book marketing.

Writing events can be a bit intimidating if you’ve never attended one, but they’re a goldmine for inspiration, connection, and growth. Whether you’re reading your work out loud for the first time or listening to other writers share their experiences, the power of these events lies in the sense of community and shared creative energy.

Are Writing Events for Me?

Let’s be real: Are writing events actually your thing? They’re not for everyone, and that’s completely okay. If the thought of public speaking or sharing your work with strangers makes your palms sweat, I get it. But let’s break this down.

Introverts – You’ve Got This:If you thrive in quieter spaces and prefer to keep your thoughts to yourself, the idea of performing your work in front of an audience might sound daunting. But here’s the thing: writing events are often less about performing and more about sharing. It’s a supportive environment where the goal isn’t to impress but to connect. You’re there to express yourself, and trust me, no one’s looking for perfection. They’re looking for authenticity.

You can start small. Maybe try attending a virtual writing event before you take the plunge into an open mic night. Ease into the process, and you’ll find that the nerves start to settle.

Extroverts – You’ll Shine:If you love being in the spotlight and thrive on feedback, writing events are your playground. These events give you a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, hear others’ work, and get your own writing in front of an audience. There’s nothing like the energy of a live event to give you a burst of motivation.

If you’re the social butterfly type, embrace it! Get involved in networking, make connections with industry professionals, and take advantage of the opportunity to be seen. But don’t forget that these events are also about growth and learning. Being open to critique and offering feedback to others is just as important as showing off your own work.

How to Prep for a Writing Event

So, you’re ready to dive in. But how do you prepare? Whether you’re attending an online festival, a workshop, or an open mic night, preparation is key.

1. Know Your Work:You’re probably already familiar with your writing, but before you step up to the mic or hit ‘Join’ on that virtual panel, make sure you really know your piece. If you’re reading your work aloud, practice it—loudly and clearly. You’ll want to be comfortable with every word, every pause, and every breath.
Tip for Online Events: Even though you’re not in the same room, your energy needs to come through. Stand up, project your voice, and make sure your surroundings are quiet. Sometimes, even just a small adjustment to your posture can make all the difference.
2. Have a Clear Goal:What do you want from this event? Is it feedback on your writing? A connection with other writers? Or simply the thrill of sharing your story? Whatever it is, set a clear goal before the event starts. This will help you stay focused and ensure that you’re getting the most out of the experience.
3. Embrace Feedback:This is one of the toughest parts, but also one of the most valuable. Writing events, especially workshops, offer feedback from fellow writers and industry experts. Be ready to listen, learn, and grow. Don’t take critiques personally—use them as fuel for improvement. Remember, every writer, no matter how successful, started somewhere.
4. Prepare for Nerves:Even the most seasoned writers get nervous before speaking in front of an audience. It’s completely normal. Take a few deep breaths, remind yourself why you’re there, and focus on the joy of sharing your words. Trust me, the nerves will start to melt once you’re in the zone.

How to Excel at Writing Events

So, now that you’re ready, how can you make sure you shine? Here are a few tips to excel at writing events:

1. Be Present:This might sound obvious, but it’s easy to get distracted—especially with online events. When you’re at an in-person event, make sure you’re fully engaged. Listen to others, take notes, and ask questions. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow.
2. Connect with Others:Writing events are more than just a chance to showcase your own work—they’re a chance to connect with fellow writers. Network, share ideas, and support others in their creative journey. The more you engage, the more likely you’ll find valuable opportunities for growth, collaboration, or even publication.
3. Keep It Concise:Whether it’s a short story, poem, or essay, keep your reading concise. Audiences, even digital ones, tend to tune out if the piece goes on for too long. Respect the time of others and aim for a performance that’s polished and to the point.
4. Stay Authentic:At the end of the day, writing events are about you. Don’t try to be someone you’re not or read in a style that doesn’t feel natural to you. Your authenticity will resonate with the audience far more than trying to impress them.

Writing Events Can Change the Game

Writing events are more than just opportunities to share your work—they’re transformative experiences that push you out of your comfort zone, connect you with other passionate writers, and help you grow as a creator. Whether you’re standing in front of a live audience, typing away during an online panel, or sitting quietly in a workshop, every writing event is a chance to sharpen your skills, expand your horizons, and find your voice.

So, what are you waiting for? The next event is just around the corner. Search for, sign up, show up, and let your words make some noise.

Buy Me a Coffee: ☕ If this guide helps you give better feedback — or even turn it into paid work — you can shout me a coffee at buymeacoffee.com/scribblyteam. It keeps the prompts fresh and the writing community strong.

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