DEVELOPING YOUR VOICE
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THE CAI-GRIE WRITING WORKSHOP BY: KIMBERLY LILLEY, CIRMS, CMCA, EBP
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n May, a small group of CAI Greater Inland Empire members got together for our first-ever Writing Workshop. The goal was to help members who have expertise they are willing to share develop the voice they need to share that expertise in article form. We brainstormed with each participant about what topics they might want to write on. It was exciting to hear what each person brought to the table, and what the other attendees wanted to hear about regarding those topics. It also helped the attendees to “stay in their lane” and really hone in on their true expertise while sticking to the topic and avoiding meandering. Then we were able to get into how to get started on the article, discussing research, creating outlines, choosing a strong headline, creating an introduction, deciding if there should be sub-headings, what a conclusion should cover, etc. Our homework included an outline of one of the topics we had brainstormed about earlier. In the second class, we debriefed the outline-writing process and gave each other input about what else we wanted to see in the article (or, sometimes, how better to stay on track). We then discussed the many things to consider as we write an opening paragraph for our article, and how important it is to edit and then edit AGAIN. We looked at a few article examples and suggested what edits we would make there. For the third class, we showed up with our finished articles to get input from the team. We had already discussed AI-assisted article generators and had a chance to look at an article generated that way during this session. We learned that, while the AI-assisted article generator could help to get someone out of a “stuck” place when starting an article, the accuracy was so low, that most of the article had to be completely rewritten. Next, we discussed how to come up with a title for our articles, what a byline is and what it should include, and if there might be an image that would go with the theme of the article. By the end of this class, there were titles for everyone’s articles that spoke to the topic AND grabbed some attention. 18 |
CONNECT MAGAZINE • ISSUE THREE 2023
One attendee said:
I highly recommend [CAI-GRIE’s] ‘Writer’s Workshop.’ Whether a beginning or seasoned writer, this workshop will inspire you to write an article and provide you with excellent guidance from the instructors and feedback from the group. With little to no pressure you’ll review the key elements of what makes a good article and put them to work writing your own. Then you’ll review your completed or partial article and get immediate applause and vital feedback for your efforts. Who knows, you might even get published!” —Steve F. Escoto from Villa Avanti Association Another attendee stated:
As a person who wants to contribute and bring value to the CAI chapters I am a member of, this workshop is an excellent tool. The [three] classes focus on different elements in the process of writing an article. The workshop format is a great way to learn from others. I enjoyed being able to share ideas and learn from the instructors and other workshop members. I received a lot of motivation and encouragement from the class.” —Craig D. Aron from iMail Tracking What is it that YOU have to say? We want to hear it! Keep your eye out for the next Writing Workshop and sign up quickly, because attendance is limited! Kimberly Lilley, CIRMS, CMCA, EBP is the Director of Business Development for Berg Insurance Agency and can be reached at kimberly@berginsurance.com
