#United States #New York #Virtual Conference #Editorial Freelancers Association #EFA

Virtual Conference to Honor 55 Years of EFA

The Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA) is gearing up for a milestone event—their Virtual Conference and Fifty-Fifth Anniversary Celebration, to be held on September 5-6, 2025. With the theme “Strong Stories, Stronger Community: Celebrating 55 Years of Editorial Excellence,” the two-day event promises to be a remarkable gathering for freelancers in the editorial realm.

Since its inception in 1970, the EFA has tirelessly worked to support and uplift the freelance editorial community. With a membership now exceeding 3,000, the association has become an invaluable resource for editors, writers, proofreaders, translators, and others in publishing and communications. Executive Director Autumn Arnett emphasizes the significance of this conference: "We work hard to cultivate a vibrant community of freelance editorial professionals. This conference honors decades of editorial excellence, from the earliest days of the organization to our most recent initiatives."

Conference Highlights

This year's virtual conference will feature a diverse array of programming designed to cater to various facets of editorial work. Attendees can expect keynote speeches from industry leaders, interactive sessions, and ample networking opportunities. The schedule is organized into two primary tracks:

1. Editorial Know-How Track

Sessions in this track will be led by experienced editors and will delve into best practices, tools, and techniques that can bolster editorial skills across various disciplines. Expect to explore:

• - Techniques for effective editing
• - Tools for enhancing productivity
• - Best practices for collaboration and communication within editorial teams.

2. Business Track

This track will focus on the business side of freelancing, addressing crucial topics such as:

• - Pricing your services
• - Client communication strategies
• - Understanding contracts and legalities
• - Marketing your freelancing business
• - Long-term financial planning for sustainability.

The registration fee is set at $120 for EFA members and $165 for non-members, making it accessible for those eager to learn and connect with peers. To register and stay informed about session details, participants can visit the-efa.org/conference.

Sponsorship Opportunities

The EFA is also open to sponsors keen on promoting their services to an engaged audience of editorial professionals. The virtual platform is designed to simulate the spontaneous interactions typical of in-person gatherings. Attendees will have access to virtual meetups, networking games, and informal "hallway" chats aimed at fostering connection and collaboration among peers.

A Legacy of Excellence

With over five decades of dedication to the freelance community, the EFA has been recognized as a pivotal resource in the editorial landscape. Influential professionals in the industry, such as Jane Friedman and Louise Harnby, have acknowledged the EFA's contributions to journalism and publishing. The association and its resources have been featured in reputable publications like Publishers Weekly, The Write Life, and the Chicago Manual of Style blog.

As noted by Publishers Weekly, "The Editorial Freelancers Association just might be the book publishing industry's most powerful secret weapon."

Looking Forward

As we approach the conference in September, excitement is building among freelancers eager to celebrate the achievements of the editorial community and discuss future advancements in the industry. The EFA's commitment to fostering a strong, interconnected community through education and networking opportunities cannot be overstated. Those interested in enhancing their skills and growing their professional networks should mark their calendars and prepare for an inspiring celebration of editorial excellence, community, and connection.

For more information, reach out to the Editorial Freelancers Association at ***@the-efa.org.