It’s been a long time coming, but I’m finally heading to the RWA Writers’ Conference in August (Melbourne this year). And my going is only possible through with the support and generosity of others who believe in dreams and who want to help me realise mine. I am very lucky and plan on making the most of every minute.How do I feel? Excited, terrified, and everything in between.
It’s all rather daunting: hundreds of like-minded authors and industry gurus, all talking about craft and professional development. What worries me most is being able to keep up, keep focused and keep awake! I am sooooo not used to late nights (unless it’s sitting at the computer), nor am I used to chatting all day (unless it’s via the computer – and I can nod off in the middle of online chats without anyone knowing! Shhhh!)
I also worry about not recognising someone I should. (Let’s face it, none of us look like our promo headshots.) Or that I will look just plain goofy standing on the sidelines in absolute awe and catching flies in my gaping mouth.
So I figured it was a good idea to start training. Here’s my 4 ‘S’ Tips.
Smile – looking demure, knowledgable and keeping gaping mouth closed at all times.
Speak – preferably in coherent sentences and say ‘hi, good to see you’ to everyone whether you recognise them or not.
Start conversations – the old ‘What are you reading?’ is apparently a good one.
Self-control – refrain from throwing self at feet of visiting publishers. (Not a good look!)
And finally, enjoy, share, learn.
You have no chance of being a human fly catcher, Jenn! There will be so many people you know from your on-line community that your feet will not touch the ground and you won't be able to stop talking.
But I do like your idea of a conversation starter!
And we will stop you from clinging limpet like to the ankles of publishers 🙂
I'm looking forward to meeting you Jenn! I'll be doing a lot of reading of name tags I think.
I am so looking forward to the conference!
Like you I have a lot of trouble connecting names to online "faces" – so I love the lanyards we'll all be wearing.
First conference is always the most nerve racking but I bet you finished the weekend with some new found friends!
Thank you my friends. I look forward to meeting you all most of all.