Soon after I started my freelance business I quickly realized how much I loved going to conferences. It has become an investment in my business—a way for me to learn new skills, find clients, bond with fellow creative types and get inspired to try new things. I’m always invigorated after conferences, buzzing with fresh new ideas and excitement about things I want to try with my freelance business. Learn how to find the right conference for you, what to do beforehand to prepare for the conference and what “must-haves” you should take to the conference.   DELIBERATE FREELANCER SHOW NOTES 1:50— How I discovered “my people” at ACES–the Society for Editing. 4:51— How to find your “people” in your industry and its conferences. 5:19— There are two types of conferences: the ones with your fellow creatives and the ones with potential clients. 7:10— Why I’m so involved in an organization called Association Media & Publishing.  8:08— The five things you should do before you go to a conference. 11:11— Nine things you should take to a conference.  16:54— Biz Bite: Create a Today List   Resources: Cheat Sheet—5 Things to Do Before a Conference & 9 Things to Take to a Conference ACES–the Society for Editing Association Media & Publishing Association Media & Publishing 2019 Annual Meeting My blog post: Networking Is Not a Dirty Word