Writers InThe Marketplace

Preparing for the Writers Conference

If you are open to new ideas, willing to adjust the way you approached writing in the past and interested in listening and learning from "seasoned" authors and fellow writers, attending a writing conference will be a treat for you.  The investment will help you reach another level in your writing.  It will also help you gain a proper perspective of the "total publishing package" while identifying your "active" role in the process.

There are several "to do" items to consider before, during, and after the writing conference you must complete that will be beneficial and promote a worthwhile process:

• Develop A Writer's Portfolio - This is a now item.  You should be developing and maintaining an up-to-date clip file of presentation materials ready and accessible.  When conferences become available, you will have ready materials (2-3 published articles, newsletter samples, etc.) that can be left with the editor/publisher/literary agent during the 15 minute meeting.
• Research Conference Faculty - In addition to announcing workshop titles, contest rules and registration requirements, conference web sites provide detailed descriptions of faculty and invited editors/publishers/literary agents.  It can be to your advantage to identify an agent or editor because of a picture you accessed from their web site.  People like to be recognized, and greeting them in the corridors is a simple strategy do casual conversation that can lead to the infamous question, "So, what do you write?"
• Dress for Business - We live in "casual" times.  Impress the editor/publisher/literary agent.  Be different in your attire.  They do take notice.  A jacket and slacks make a better presentation than sweat shirt and jeans.  People do not comment, but attention to attire can promote an "emotional state" response of professionalism from the interviewer.
• Collect Business Cards - Collect cards from everyone, including fellow writers.  We all need support and encouragement and what better way to fill this need than from other writers.  Sending thank you notes to the editors/publishers/literary agents can open doors of long term communication.
• Summarize Your Experience - Review your notes immediately.  Prepare a "to do list," follow leads, and outline goals and objectives necessary to press to the next level of your writing career.