I’ll be attending the San Francisco Writers Conference this weekend. In fact, this year I’ll be presenting a talk on blogging a book –come hear me speak on Sunday! A lot of people I know will be there pitching their books and attending classes to learn how to attract a traditional publishing deal or to create a successful self-published book.I’ve attended the conference or worked as a volunteer for six years or so.
Attending a conference may be the best investment a writer can make in his or her career. However, if you go unprepared, you may not get much out of that investment. So, here is a list of things to do to prepare yourself for the experience:
- Show up well rested.
- Bring a pad of paper and lots of pens or pencils.
- Bring a tape recorder.
- Bring lots of business cards.
- Bring a one-page book proposal (agents and editors don’t typically accept a full book proposal)
- Prepare and practice your pitch.
- Dress professionally.
- Be prepared for opportunities, such as a chance to get a professional photo taken (for the cover of your book or for your website), to speak with a book editor, to pitch to an agent, etc.
- Have a copy of your book proposal or manuscript handy for editing sessions or ask-a-pro sessions
- Check the schedule prior to arrival so you have a good idea what you may need for all occasions and what you plan on doing and hearing while at the conference.
Then relax and enjoy yourself. Be prepared to learn a lot. Don’t expect yourself to remember it all. Do intend to go home and put as much of what you learned to use.
Great post, Nina! Looking forward to seeing you at the event. I’m speaking at three different sessions!
Two items to add to your post:
– Ditch your friends so you can meet as many new people as possible (you never know who you might have a connection for you!).
– Wear comfortable shoes!
: )
Thanks, Stephanie! Great comment, but I’d add to make a plan with your friends to attend different sessions. Then check in later to compare notes and learn from each other. That way you get even more bang for your buck!
Looking forward to seeing you at the SFWC, too. It’s always a pleasure!
Excellent post! If conferences are taping sessions, as the SFWC does as a fundraiser, they may not want attendees to tape them. But you provide a lot of good advice, which every writer should read before attending a conference.
Thanks, Mike! A tape recorder comes in handy for other reasons…such as when sitting across from me during a book doctor session!