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The Writers Conference
and How to Prepare
So you're going to a writers conference.
Not quite sure how to get ready for it.
Let's look at a few items to consider purchasing before making that long trip to the writers conference.
Your Wardrobe
For men:This is simple. Dark slacks and a nice shirt and tie. A sports jacket is always a welcome addition. A suit, even better. For Women: Same thing applies. Dark slacks and a nice blouse. Preferable solid color. You don't have to wear a 2 piece suit but it sure helps you to feel confident. Especially when you're in a nice power-suit. I know what you're going to say..."I can't afford a nice suit." It's amazing what kind of hidden treasures you can find at a consignment store. Fine ladies apparel and men's gently used suits abound in consignment stores. A thrift store can also be a place to find some nice blouses, shirts and slacks. If this is still not a viable alternative for you, then trade, beg or borrow what you need. Don't forget to check online for specials and clearances at your favorite clothing sites. The one thing to remember about dressing for a conference is dress professionally! And that means...NO JEANS! If you're thinking about getting a new haircut or style, do so two weeks ahead of time to get used to the new look.
What to Take
Attractive tote, backpack, binder (with handles), any other attractive or professional looking carrying case to hold your necessities such as:Notepads (steno type best)
pencils(mechanical type)
Extra leads and erasers (Better than pens for note taking)
Business Cards (get them made cheaply online at places like Vistaprint)
Extra copies of your articles or manuscripts.
Sugarfree Mints (the sugar mints sour your breath and make your teeth and tongue pasty in a short time.)
Things to Remember
Remember to socialize. I can't tell you how many times I've seen writers sitting at a table by themselves. Don't do that! Don't wait to be invited to sit down at a table, ask to sit down or just sit. In the lobbies, seek out other people...Network. Even if you are an introvert, you are at a writers conference. You can go back to being unsociable when you get home.
Network!
Note: Make yourself exchange at least 5 business cards a day.
Another thing to remember is:Do not expect an editor or agent to take your manuscript home with them. they don't have that kind of room on the plane. Instead, your objective is to get the editor or agents business card. Don't stop there. Ask how they would prefer to receive your manuscript. Do they want it snail-mail on a paper hardcopy or CD or would they prefer it e-mailed in a particular format. Most will want it in a word.doc file.
NOTE: if you have Microsoft word 2007, do not save your document as a word.docx file. Some editors cannot open this file so make sure to save it as a 2003 version in a word.doc file before sending it. Also, ask the editor is they have a firewall code you need to use. All publishers have a firewall and many do not accept unsolicited manuscripts so make sure to ask them what they want in the subject line of the e-mail. For example:Subject: Requested at the """"Writers Conference This little additive should keep your e-mail from getting lost in the electronic slush-pile. There are many other aspects we could talk about here but perhaps it's best to go to the website of the particular writers conference you plan to attend and read their FAQ's. You may also contact CRM with any questions you may have concerning this topic.
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As always, Happy Writing!
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