You’ve been writing for a while now and it occurs to you it might be worthwhile to attend one or more writers’ conferences. So, the question is, bluntly, is it?
           
The answer is, confusingly, yes and no.
           
Okay, before you  give up in disgust and don’t bother reading any further, I promise I’m going to clarify; give you something to consider and hopefully help you see a bit clearer the drawbacks and pluses of attending writers’ conferences.
           
For starters, plainly it can be a very good idea. Conferences will frequently provide the opportunity for you to rub shoulders with editors, agents, and other writers. Those meetings can result in a connection with the "right" person. An editor who asks to see your work; another, more experienced writer who’s happy to offer advice; an agent who is willing to accept your submission; all these and more are the "right" people. Many also provide workshops on various topics that can be extremely informative. And many fast friendships have been formed at conferences. All of this is very good.
           
The down side?  It’s going to cost you money. If you have to travel some distance and stay in a motel, it will cost you even more money. There is usually a fee just to attend. Then more money may be required for many of the workshops and classes. If you’re on a tight budget you better figure the expenses accurately or you’ll find yourself financially behind the eight ball. You can shave expenses if you’re lucky enough to have a conference in your city. So investigate that first.
           
The other down side is not quite as obvious as cash from pocket. If you happen to be very shy, and many writers are, will you really be able to get your dollars worth out of such a conference?  When I began writing I was extremely shy. If that’s the case with you, it’s something you need to work on. You might consider starting with local writers' groups or attending some classes at a college nearby.
           
Remember, part of your professional life as a writer is going to be putting yourself out there. You’ll probably end up giving public talks, perhaps attending book signings, maybe giving interviews on the radio or for print publications. You cannot be a writer these days, hide in a corner, and expect that your words will be enough. They won’t.
          
Find ways to shake yourself loose from that shyness. I took myself to dude ranches when I was young, alone, and got to know people there. At first I simply attended the family-style meals. I felt awkward and self-conscious, but it didn’t take long to get to know a few people and begin to feel more comfortable. I made it a point to strike up conversations and, no matter how uncomfortable, to put myself out there.
           
I recommend you do the same – and do it before you decide to attend a conference that’s costing you a lot of money . . . unless you’re feeling very brave and want to toss yourself into the deep end of the pool.