5 tips to get the most out of a writer’s conference

As mentioned in my previous blog post, “How to use writing contests to reach your goals,” I’ve been entering contests this year to build up my publication credits. And, it’s starting to pay off.

So far, I’ve earned 8^th place for poetry in the 2012 Writer’s Digest Annual Contest and this weekend I received more good news—I’m a finalist in two categories at an upcoming writers’ conference!

Even if I don’t win one of the top spots, being a finalist means I’ll get special recognition and an invite to attend an agent and editor gathering with the other finalists. Before the conference, I’ll be thinking about what I want to get out of the conference and put together my Action Plan.

My hubby and I do this before every seminar we attend for our business–we discuss what we want to take home from the seminar and also what we want to give to others while at the conference and after the conference.

Here’s an example of my writer’s Action Plan:

1. Before the conference, read all the agent and editor bios. Highlight the ones that take my genre.

2. Make a list of these agents and have a goal to meet and talk with each one at some point during the conference–if not during a pitch meeting, then try to sit near them at lunch or attend their class if they’re teaching one. (Try not to be too stalker-ish).

3. If my writing partner, Carly, is able to attend the conference, plan meetings with her for brainstorming, writing, etc.

4. At every opportunity introduce myself to other writers and ask them what they write. Practice pitching with them, share my blog, and ask them if they have a website or blog. Goal: meet 8 to 10 (or more) new people a day.

5. Before I leave for the conference, create a new contact list in my database and type in each agent and editor’s name that I pitch and the result of the session. You can also use a word document or a google doc for this but set it up before you leave! I’m still kicking myself because I lost my folder with all the business cards and notes from a major conference I attended last year. (Since the folder was lost during our recent remodel, can I say, “My house ate it?”)

Once I have my Action Plan together, I’ll bring the list to the conference with me to make sure I stay on track.

For great advice on how to prepare for a writers’ conference and really get your money’s worth, check out “Writer’s Conference Guide: Getting the Most of Your Time and Money,” by authors Bob Mayer and Jennifer Talty.