Call it what you want: The Big Game, Opening Night, The
Concert, The Playoffs. It is that big moment in your life for which you have
been preparing. For me, it is a writing conference. Okay, I know that isn’t
exactly like preparing for the Super Bowl, but there are similarities.
I know because I’m in training to attend the American
Christian Fiction Writers annual conference in Dallas. It’s a big deal.
· I need a game plan.
· I need to know the players –the agents, editors,
authors, and speakers attending.
· I need my plays worked out.
My game plan? I am scheduled to meet with agents and
editors. I have registered for workshops to help me strengthen my writing. I
want to get everything I can out of those experiences.
The conference planners asked for volunteers. I volunteered
to work an hour at the registration desk. I want to meet people. It’s part of
my plan.
I don’t know exactly with whom I’ll be meeting. When I
registered, I could choose three agents, three editors, and so forth. I think
the way it works is I will get an appointment with one of each. So I’m reading
their blogs, visiting their websites, learning what I can about them.
I have a first choice for an agent. I’ve been following his
blog for a long time. (I don’t know if he’ll be the one I get to meet, but I’m
praying that happens.) I currently don’t have an agent. I had Tom and God and
figured that was enough.
I’ve prepared a synopsis for works I have in the mill.
I have my business cards ready. (Thanks Danielle)
I’m preparing my “elevator pitch.” By the way…next week I
convinced the invincible Rebecca Barth
to write a guest post on preparing the elevator pitch. She works with
businesses and creative people all the time in presenting their ideas.
Oh, and I need to figure out what to wear, of course.
No this is not me. But I feel like it! |
But mostly, I need to make sure I’m
writing and not just talking about it.
The conference is a little over a week away and you could
say I have the pre-game jitters.
What do you do to prepare for the BIG DAY?
Comments welcomed, prayers preferred.
How exciting! Yes, indeed I will pray that your experience is as successful as you plan and that a particular agent is just as eager to meet you!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Nancy! I trust I will learn a lot!!! Expect bunches of posts after the conference about what i've gleaned!
DeleteAttending my first conference this weekend, as well. Great post, and I wish you success!
ReplyDeleteThat's great, Bryce. Hope the post was helpful. Be sure to check back in next week for the elevator pitch and on the 23rd I have a post on what to do AFTER the conference. Wishing you the best this weekend!
DeleteCan't wait to meet you at conference!
ReplyDeleteYes! I can't wait, Karla.
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