Re: The Business of Conferences

[Jo Francis Byrd <jbyrd -at- byrdwrites -dot- com>]

Gee, Andrew, tell us what you REALLY think about STC!!!

I'm not a wage slave. I'm independent. That means all my professional expenses -
equipment, software, professional memberships, conferences, whatever, come out of
my pocket. Conference attendance means unbillable hours. But I go to as many as I
can afford to attend.

Why? Because I can grow professionally. As one of those who cares passionately
about STC, I find value in my membership. It has helped me grow professionally and
personally. I have gotten so much more than I have ever given. Obviously for me it
is worth while.

Is it all goodness and light? Heavens, no! There are personalities and politics
involved here just like in every other organization. Like many on the list who
complained about the conference location last year, I could have done without the
snotty, overpriced, self-important hotel - and the location. I didn't go to the
conference to play at the Orlando attractions, I went to learn. And I did. That was
my choice.

Whether or not you choose to belong to STC, or think it worthwhile, that is your
decision. Should speakers get paid? I guess, to quote Jared Spool's favorite
phrase, it depends. It depends on a lot of factors. I don't know all the factors
involved in making that decision. Arguments on both sides have been presented, all
have logic and reason.

You are entitled to your opinion. The rest of us are entitled to ours.

Jo Byrd

Andrew Plato wrote:

> It seems to me that if you really wanted GOOD people to speak at conferences you
> would do whatever it takes to get them there.  At a MINIMUM STC could at least
> waive the registration fee for speakers. It is disrespectful to charge the people
> who are speaking.  You're already voulnteering your time and the
> effort to prepare to speak.
>
> If STC is an all volunteer group, then why can't I be a member for FREE! Why
> can't my membership dues be volunteered as well?
>
> Why not raise the registration fee for all the regular conference attendees so
> you can let the speakers in for free?
>
> STC is a racket. It is predominantly wage slaves who get their employers to pay.
> As such STC does not accurately represent tech writing because many independents,
> like myself, want nothing to do with STC.
>
> STC is disrespected professional society from its own members.  Imagine how the
> outside world sees STC?  Most people haven't a clue such an organization exists.
> For a profession struggling to gain respect in the workplace, STC is doing very
> little to help.
>
> Personally, I think the entire organization should be dismantled and all the
> officers removed. It should then be reconstituted with a new mission and proper
> leadership.  But, I sure ain't going to do it.  I have docs to write.


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