How to Use Social Media to Maximize Your Writing Conference Experience (Before, During, and After)

From Edie: Learn how to use social media to get the most out of writing conferences. Discover proven strategies for networking with agents, editors, and fellow writers before, during, and after your event.

How to Use Social Media to Maximize Your Writing Conference Experience (Before, During, and After)
By Edie Melson @EdieMelson

We are deep into writing conference season.

Writers everywhere are packing bags, polishing proposals, and making plans to attend events that can move their careers forward in powerful ways. But in the middle of all that preparation, there’s one opportunity many writers still overlook—one that can easily double the value of your conference experience.

And it starts before you ever arrive.

Many writers assume social networking is only helpful online—or only useful when you can’t attend an event in person.

That’s simply not true.

In today’s publishing world, your online connections are often the bridge that turns a large, overwhelming conference into a meaningful, relational experience.

Why Social Media Matters for Writing Conferences

Using social media before and during a conference isn’t just helpful—it’s strategic.

Here’s what it can do for you: 

• Turn strangers into familiar faces. Connecting ahead of time can make a large conference feel more like a reunion than a room full of unknowns. 
• Give you insight into industry professionals. You can learn what editors, agents, and faculty are looking for—and how they communicate—before you ever sit down with them. 
• Help people recognize and remember you. When you engage thoughtfully online, you’re no longer just another attendee—you’re someone they’ve already “met.” 
• Keep you informed in real time. Schedule changes, room shifts, and spontaneous opportunities often show up on social platforms first. 

When used well, social media doesn’t replace in-person networking—it enhances it.

Start Here: The Conference Website (Yes, Really)

Before you head to social media, start with the most overlooked resource: the conference website.

As a conference director, I’m always surprised how many attendees skip this step. But those who take the time to explore the site often stand out immediately—in the best way.

What to Look For: 

• Conference Blog: Many conferences feature guest posts from faculty. These often include valuable insights, expectations, and even teaching themes you’ll see in sessions. 
• Attendee Communication Channels: These used to be called “e-loops.” Now they may be email lists, private communities, or apps like Slack, Circle, or Mighty Networks. Look for ways to connect early. 
• Official Social Media Pages: Follow the conference on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. This is where updates, reminders, and community conversations happen. 
• Event Hashtag: Every conference has one (or should). Knowing it ahead of time helps you follow—and join—the conversation. 
• Faculty Pages: This is your research goldmine. Learn who will be there, what they do, and how they engage with writers. 

How to Connect with Faculty and Attendees (Without Being Awkward)

Once you’ve explored the conference site, it’s time to branch out.

1. Blogs, Newsletters, and Websites

This is still one of the best ways to get to know faculty. 

• Read their content 
• Leave thoughtful comments 
• Notice who else is engaging (many will be attending too) 

2. Facebook (Groups Over Friend Requests) 

• Join official conference groups if available 
• Follow public author pages 
• Engage in conversations—but don’t force connections 

3. Instagram 

• Follow faculty and speakers 
• Comment meaningfully (not just emojis) 
• Watch Stories for behind-the-scenes insights 

4. X (Twitter) and Threads 

• Follow event hashtags 
• Share helpful quotes or insights 
• Engage in ongoing conversations 

5. LinkedIn (Often Overlooked—but Powerful) 

• Especially valuable for nonfiction writers 
• Great place to connect professionally after meaningful interactions 

What to Do During the Conference

This is where everything comes together.

Social media allows you to extend the conference experience in real time.

• Share key takeaways and quotes: This positions you as engaged and thoughtful 
• Use the event hashtag consistently: It helps others find you—and you find them 
• Post photos (when appropriate): Tag people when possible—it strengthens connection 
• Follow people you meet immediately: That instant connection helps cement the relationship 
• Stay updated: Social feeds are often the fastest source of schedule changes 

After the Conference (Where Most Writers Drop the Ball)

This is where the real opportunity is—and where many writers miss out. 

• Follow up with people you met 
• Comment on posts from faculty and attendees 
• Share what you learned and how you’re applying it 
• Stay engaged in conference groups or communities 

This is how a three-day event turns into long-term relationships.

Make Your Investment Count

You’re investing time, money, and energy into attending a writing conference.

Social media is one of the simplest ways to multiply that investment.

Used intentionally, it helps you: 

• Build relationships 
• Gain visibility 
• Stay informed 
• And walk away with far more than just notes in a notebook 

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What strategies have helped you get more value from a writing conference?

Share your tips in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s working for you.

Don’t forget to join the conversation!
Blessings,
Edie

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How to Use Social Media to Maximize Your Writing Conference Experience (Before, During, and After) from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Edie uses the truths God has taught her as an author, photographer, and blogger to encourage others. She’s learned to embrace the ultimate contradiction of being an organized creative. As a sought-after speaker, she’s empowered and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others call on God’s strength during challenging times, often using creativity to empower this connection. She also knows the necessity of Soul Care and leads retreats, conferences, and workshops on ways to use creativity to help strengthen our connection with God.

She and husband Kirk have been married 44+ years with three grown sons and four grandchildren. They live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and can often be found with their big black dog hiking the mountains.