Maximize Editor Meetings at Writers Conferences
Tips to Make the Most of Network Opportunites
Nov 7, 2009
Some editor meetings at writer conferences are scheduled ahead and may include a paid critiques. Other opportunities present themselves at the end of a workshop, meals, or breaks. Writers set goals for conferences to help advance a career or land a first publishing contract, but preparations help the goals become reality.
Research Editors and Publishers
Once a conference is chosen, start researching the editors attending and find out about meeting opportunities. Browse the publishing house website of each editor listed and read about the house in a writers' market guide. Check out the online catalog, submission guidelines, and the 'about us' and product sections to discover what that house or magazine publishes. Look to see if editor profiles are posted to read about the editors attending.
Note any title of editors attending. Acquisition editors primary goals are to find new authors and works. Copy editors are the ones who do final edits and are not as involved in contracts. Other editors may be linked to particular divisions or product lines and will not necessarily know what is needed by other divisions.
Some conference web sites list needs of editors, so read the site for the upcoming conference and note any specific needs that match your ideas.
Match Your Ideas To Editorial Houses
Browse your idea file, works-in-progress, and completed proposals to find which might fit an editor's needs. Polkish off those manuscripts before attending. Be sure to follow specific publisher guidelines for each match. Ideas not yet developed may interest an editor and can be shared without an actual manuscript.
Make an index card for each editor attending. On the card list ideas, manuscripts, and works-in-progress that might be a fit. When a meeting occurs, glance at the card to remember what to discuss.
Develop the Pitches
For each match possibility develop a short oral pitch. Write the pitches down and memorize them. Be sure to focus on the concept of the book and the benefits (why readers will want to read the article or book). Try to keep this to one or two sentences.
Practice the pitches on friends or a critique group. Refine it until people respond with interest.
Prepare a Summary of Ideas
Create a summary listing each idea and proposal. For each one, write the title, focus statement that encapsulates the concept, reader benefits, and manuscript status of how much is completed.
Hand the summary with a business card to the editor at the start of the meeting, before launching into a specific pitch. While listening, the editor can browse the list and may express interest in one of the other ideas.
Practice Pitches
Practice in front of a mirror and with friends. Practice smiling, introductions, giving the pitch, and discussing the ideas. Also practice relaxation techniques to remain calm. Be prepared to listen to critiques, even negative ones.
Write questions to ask. This allows time to relax while listening to an editor.
Prepare for Success
Have a notebook to track comments and requests. If an editor asks for a manuscript, ask for a business card, and write how to submit the piece (mail or electronically), how long the house typically takes to respond, and contact information. Discuss time frame if the editor asks for a rewrite before a submission. Listen and take notes about any changes requested. Ask questions if something is unclear.
At the end of meetings, thank the editor for his or her time and advice. Follow up the conference as requested or with a thank you note.
Editors remember professionalism and organization. That leaves a good impression for future opportunities. Check out more ideas on confer preparations.
 |
