Getting maximum value from a writer's conference

Writer's Conferences aren't cheap, but they can be worth every penny (and more) if you do your homework before you go. If you're thinking of attending a conference, you should do it (and collect the receipts, because if you're trying to get published, you can deduct the cost). Here are some tips for getting the best value out the writers conferences you attend.

Establish your goals for the conference. Decide what you want to get out of the conference. Review the conference website, then decide. Are you going to market yourself, to network, or maybe to learn about the genre? Whatever your goal, decide on it ahead of time. For me, the Florida Writers Association Conference was all about networking. At Sleuthfest, I learned a lot about my genre. I'd have gotten more value out of each conference by reviewing the list of faculty, agents, and publishers, and planning on who to talk to and why.

Relax and enjoy. When you attend a writers conference, the faculty, agents, and writers are there to interact with attendees. That means you! They expect people to talk to them, ask them questions, and even gently market or pitch them. Most conferences include time specifically set aside to network. Don't be afraid to approach someone just because they've sold a zillion books or happen to be the keynote speaker. They were in your shoes once and they're attending so they can help you make the most of your talent.

A friend of mine made friends with Jeremiah Healy by being his model for showing how you can kill someone with your bare hands. Jerry, as they call him, was gentle, but she used the opportunity to talk to him. I expect that she's probably e-mailed him since then.

Take your stuff with you. Again, any agent or publisher attending a conference expects to be pitched. Most conferences allow you to purchase time with an individual agent or publisher. Whatever the cost of the pitch session, it's worth it. Even if the person you pitch doesn't accept your materials, they can give you valuable insights or pass it along to someone who might have interest in it. Last year, at the FWA conference, editors and agents requested 20 manuscripts.

Your stuff should include, at a minimum, a synopsis and a sample of your writing. Getting your material right takes time, so start work now for conferences that might be months away. You should also have business cards made. I got 250 very nice business cards from VistaPrint for less than $30.

Say Thank You. If you meet someone and talk with them even a little bit, drop them an e-mail after the conference and say thank you. It's just good business and you might wind up with an ongoing conversation.

Also, if you're going to the Maui Writer's Conference, and need someone to be your advisor or valet or to get you a Coke, let me know. I'd be happy to accompany you and the cost of my airline ticket would be tax deductable for you after you pay for it.