As many of you know, I just attended a writers' conference out here in Bothell, WA where I will still be until Wed.
But thought you might appreciate a few suggestions I found that worked for me to guarantee a successful and fun time.
Be Friendly. Seems like a no-brainer but still many people who attend these conference don't even say hello. I made it a point to speak to anyone I could and eventually our table of friends grew. I also made so many new friends and contacts. I miss them already!
Sign up for Everything.. Yeah, even if you're scared to do it. I certainly was. But in the two days I was there, I not only sat in on many great classes but I had a few chapters critiqued by an expert and also met with three different professionals about pitching my book. More on that in my next post. I'll be sure to mention how to stalk with dignity.
Attend the worship service. If you can get up that early. Since I'm staying in a household that includes a two-year-old, it was easy. But it also meant I went home before the night events. Praying and singing with fellow writers is awesome and connects you for the day.
Ask a ton of questions. I learned so much from the other writers around me. They shared their stories and hearts. Those memories are the ones that will remain with me much longer.
Finally, relax, speak up, smile, include others and forget about everything else around you.
I wish I could attend another one tomorrow.
But for now, I hear my grandson calling me. I can't wait to share more in my next post along with some encouraging news.
Look for me back around the blogs upon my return. Until then, think about this--is there a writer's conference you've been putting off going to?
26 comments:
Terri,
How wonderful to hear that you are having a great time, and what a great learning you are sharing with us. So happy for you!!
Doris
Good advice! and sounds like you are having a wonderful time, Terri!
Great advice! I wish I could have been there, too.
Hugs,
andrea
Have fun!!!!
I like the be friendly one. Crazy how people can forget that. Maybe they are so in the zone. Sometimes I just want to smack 'em right out of that zone.
Whew. Not sure where that came from. Glad your experience has been positive.
~ Wendy
Great advice to get the most out of the experience. Glad you had such a great time! Enjoy your visit:)
great advice for any type of conference or workshop. always new ideas to use.
Great advice! In an unfamiliar situation, it's easy to stick to yourself and not reach out and be friendly--good job by you to enjoy other people :D
Sounds like some great advice Terri. Have a wonderful time with your family.
Blessings
Vickie
This makes me really look forward to the ACFW conference in September!
I'm happy to hear it is going well for you Terri. Is sounds like you are receiving a lot of great information, while connecting with other writers. I look forward to reading more about your adventure. I'd like to attend the Surrey, BC writers conference, but first I'd like to attend a writers retreat in Banff, Alberta.
Love the idea being friendly to everyone! Thank you for that reminder! I want to have that kind of caring, friendly attitude instead of a cliquish attitude, if you know what I mean.
I'm glad your conference experience was so positive, Terri. There's nothing quite like being surrounded by other writers who "get" what we do and don't think it odd that we hear voices. :)
I hope you enjoy the rest of the time with your family.
Sounds like you had a great time at the conference! Can't wait to hear more about it.
Yeah, you know which conference I've been deciding on...
Terri,
I am so proud of you for being brave and taking in all that you could at the writers' conference. I can't wait to hear all about it. Enjoy your time with your family!
Blessings,
Kelli
WONDERFUL advice, Terri!
I wanna go to Writers, Inc., but have put it off by $$ and time constraints. Sad face.
Patti
Being nice, one would think is a given, but unfortunately people seem to get ruder and ruder. Glad you got a lot out of it and your visit with family. :O)
Thanks for the encouragement Terri.
I plan to go to the West Virginia Writer's Conference in June and I look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones. My contacts over the years have been invaluable. Networking, sharing ideas, having someone to read your book, or just listen to each other.
You're right. We have to be a friend to have a friend.
Blessings. So glad you came away filled.
I'm so happy you're enjoying yourself! And you get to see your little sweetie grandson. Perfect!
Hi Terri -
I've been praying you'd have a great time at the conference and with your family. You sound refreshed and relaxed.
Blessings,
Susan :)
I'm so glad you're enjoying yourself and that the conference was beneficial. Keeping you in prayer. Safe travels home.
Have a great time!
I'd love to go to a writer's conference at some point. That would be so great!
So jazzed for you, Terri. This is excellent advice, especially about being friendly. A smile and handshake go a long way to opening doors for future endeavors.
Can't wait to hear the rest!
Sounds like you made the best use of your writer's conference. Good for you. Be glad to hear more.
I am talking myself into attending a conference. My first ever. There always has to be a first time and I've got my eye on one close by. I'll keep your suggestions in mind.
Hi Terri! This does sound wonderful. It reminds me, in a much smaller version, of a writers conference/retreat I attended this past January. I wrote about it on my blog, if you have the chance or time....yeah, right!...to ever read it! 9It would be in the end of my Jan. posts, or early Feb.)
I'm glad you're having a great time!
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