Invited to Lead a Writing Workshop? 4 Questions to Ask
Most of us are flattered when we're asked to speak to a group or lead a creative or expressive writing workshop. But before you sign that contract, ask these questions.
So when someone calls or emails me with a potential writing workshop request, I want to fast track to the planning. As a writing workshop facilitator, I’m excited to create the space in which new or seasoned writers can develop the craft of writing for creativity or wellness.
However, I remind myself to take a breath and ask the big questions.
Before signing that writing workshop contract, here are four questions to ask.
What is Your Budget for this Writing Workshop? This up-front question saves potentially wasted conversations and time. Free classes are under-appreciated. No, they don't "offer great exposure," or "look good on your CV or resume." Instead, no-cost often means no-show or partially engaged learners. Or it's an invitation to your hosting organization to take you and your expertise less than seriously. So name your fee. Then, document that fee and your invoicing terms and payment due date(s) in your formal contract.
Pro-bono workshops? Yes. I do. But if you do a no-fee workshop, it should be for organizations whose missions you support and whose education coordinators will support you—both before and during the workshop.
Narrow or Focus the Workshop Topic Sometimes, a host or events person contacts you with, "We want to offer a writing class." or, "We saw your book and would love to do something on writing." Nudge them to define and narrow the focus. A well-defined topic will be much easier for the host organization to market and will make it simpler for potential students to grasp, conceptualize and prepare.
Ask About the Writing Workshop Venue and Setup Nothing stymies learner engagement more than presentation rooms that are cold, musty, overcrowded or windowless (I’ve been there). If possible, ask to visit or video-visit the venue to check it out beforehand. Also, if you’re in a school or library, ask what other programs are being offered simultaneously. Finally, document your specific audio-visual needs right in your workshop contract. If the program is virtual, ask about the platform and who will be hosting the event and coordinating questions, chat and other details.
4. Who’s Boss Here? This is a big one. When the host stays for the workshop and interrupts at every opportunity, guess what happens? The attendees grow confused and distracted. They’re like children who want to listen to one parent, but keep glancing over their shoulders for the other parent’s consent or approval. Writing workshops are dynamic and participatory, but someone needs to be the designated and consistent leader. So in your pre-workshop call, ask if your potential host will be there for the entire program. If they plan to be there, ask what their on-the-day role will actually be.
Writing workshops are fun and energizing. But before you agree to lead a workshop, prepare your questions and ask what you need to know before you say, "yes."
On the workshop day, your host organization and your students will thank you for your pre-event care and preparation.
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Interested in setting up a wellness or creative writing workshop for your organization?