Since IWOC’s inception, coming up with programs for our monthly meetings has always been a challenge. Yet without exception, every month since 1981, our Program Committees have come through. Being that we’re based in the world class city of Chicago, we’ve never had a problem finding speakers for those programs. And thanks to Zoom, we now invite speakers from the world over. 

But there is a treasure trove of talent that we also mine, and it happens to be right here within IWOC. With a membership spanning 60+ areas of expertise, over the years we’ve been able to entice numerous members to speak about their particular field – how they got into it, what it entails – and how to succeed at it. 

Cases in point:

At our June 11 meeting, video scriptwriter/producer/narrator Greg King will be giving his up-close and personal views on – yes, writing scripts for video. Which takes more than an ability to write well. It takes visualization, imagination, and organizational skills. To name a few. Come to that meeting and it may open up a few ideas on how to expand your revenue stream.

In the past, Jeff Steele talked about the in-demand specialty called “Convention Writing.” Chicago is one of the world’s most sought-after Convention towns, where there’s always a big need for fast-thinking writers with reportage-like skills, and the ability to meet tight deadlines. “Piece o’ cake” for writers like Jeff. You wanna piece of that? Hear how to get it on the recording listed on our Member Resources page. 

We’ve also held a program on travel writing, where current members Kathryn Occhipinti and Cindy Bertram, along with longtime IWOC friend Pamela Dittmer McKuen respectively spoke about their trips to Italy, cruises on the high seas and fascinating places of interest nationwide. Listen to them exchange stories and discuss how to nab those coveted travel writing gigs.

And what can be more intriguing than writing about people’s lives? That’s what IWOC member Betsy Storm spoke about – and she should know, having interviewed 50 prominent Chicagoans for her inspiring book, Bright Lights of the Second City. Joined by the aforementioned Ms. McKuen, Mr. Steel and ghostwriter Danielle Perlin-Good, you can listen to the lively discussion covering how to excel at the discipline – and make money to boot!

That’s just a taste of the kind of programs that have been presented by IWOC’s very own in the last few years alone. So why bring this up? For one thing, it gives us a sense of pride to belong to an organization filled with such an array of talents. It’s also to convey our members’ high caliber of professionalism to potential members, all our contacts and clients seeking writers.

Say! If you’re an IWOC member (and even if you’re not), do consider being a Guest Speaker! Come share how you got into your field and what it takes to make a go of it. Not only will we all benefit from your knowledge, but you’ll benefit from the free publicity that’s disseminated to 130+ media outlets, all our social platforms and 1000+ contacts. You’ll also be treated to a post-program dinner as a thank you, compliments of IWOC. 

Interested? Simply contact our Program Committee and we'll get right back to you.

Do it and we’ll all be in for a real treat – so to speak.

-- Laura Stigler