Preparing for Writer's Conferences
Eight Tips for Writers Hoping to Maximize Networking
Plan ahead before attending your next writer's conference by bringing these eight essential items.
Items for Marketing Yourself
1. Make sure to have a good supply of business cards before attending a writer’s conference. If possible, add some color and use shiny paper stock. You might want to picture or list major books or magazine publications. Include a picture of yourself, and as much contact information as you’re comfortable with (usually email and regular mail addresses, telephone and fax numbers, and website URL). Some people even print different sets of business cards that emphasize various aspects of their written work, e.g., a business card that describes your work as a restaurant critic and a separate card that features your consulting and public speaking.
2. Bring writing samples, even if you do not intend to interview with an agent or editor. These samples can be published books, proposals, tear sheets, synopses or even calendars or game prototypes. You can meet powerful and influential folks at these conferences, so be prepared with your best material.
3. Update your resume to include recent accomplishments. This is especially important if you have one-on-one interviews planned with agents or editors. If you are seeking more work, then you should be prepared to distribute resumes to any interesting people you meet at the conference, book expo, or exhibition hall associated with the conference.
4. If you don’t already have one, be sure to purchase a satchel, briefcase, or other bag for organizing your material. Some conferences distribute goodie bags at the registration desk upon check-in, but don’t count on it. Bring your own bag with marketing items (business cards, writing samples, resumes, etc.) neatly organized inside.
Items for Comfort and Convenience
5. Whether you prefer laptop computers, digital recorders, or pens and paper, be sure to bring supplies/equipment for taking notes during conference sessions. Even if you do lean toward high-tech equipment, include some paper and pens for workshop assignments that might need to be passed around or handed in to the speaker.
6. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for attending daily sessions. You’ll want to look professional, but don’t sacrifice comfort. You’ll be sitting for long periods of time, so wear heavier materials that don’t wrinkle with wear. If you plan to attend the gala, awards banquet, or other evening festivity, bring a semi-formal outfit that makes you look your best without being provocative.
7. Although conferences typically issue nametags upon registration, you may want to bring your own unique nametag if you have one already prepared. The tag (good for starting conversations) might include your company name, book titles, or subject specialty. You would need to wear both your unique nametag and the conference-issued tag because monitors usually check tags before allowing admittance to sessions, meals, and special events.
8. Although meals and coffee breaks may be included in the conference, bring along some extra snacks. If you have the chance to grab some coffee with other conference attendees or go to an impromptu meeting with a publisher you just met at the last session, you’re better off skipping the coffee and taking advantage of the networking opportunity. By carrying bottled water or a snack in your tote bag, you can last until the next scheduled meal or snack break.
When planning for a writer’s conference, keep key objectives in mind. Whether you come for networking, researching, marketing, observing, or studying, bring a surplus of the items you need to achieve your objectives.
