I totally missed Wednesday, so let's just pretend it's not Thursday, k? :)
But I think we're all having trouble posting this week apparently!
And if this never sends, it's because there's a crazy mad thunder storm outside, and I lost power.
Gulp.
I told someone earlier in the week I'd post this week on conferences! So here we go. Here's their comment -
Can we talk about conferences a little more? I'm getting ready to register for ACFW and I'm stressing a bit. How do you decide about appointments - should I meet with an editor? Or just an agent and a mentor? Also, can someone explain what a "one-sheet" is supposed to look like?
First of all - WOOHOO for going to a conference! You will so not be disappointed. I read a post from Chip MacGregor today (http://oregonchristianwriters.org/chip-macgregor-10-ways-to-prepare/) that was really encouraging and helpful for first time conference attendees. Y'all glean from that real quick after you finish here! :)
Secondly, ACFW is one of the best conferences you can attend, in every way. It has a little bit of everything (www.acfw.com) - networking opportunities, craft courses, amazing friendship building potential, heartfelt worship, a fancy gala award night, a bit of downtown for socializing, delicious food, and, of course, Starbucks in the hotel. That's a prerequisite for finding a hotel location. No, I'm not kidding. I know the coordinator. LOL.
Thirdly, don't stress. It's too fun at conference to be nervous or scared or stressed out :)
Fourthly (is that a word?) About appointments - if you're brand new to the industry and are pitching your first book, I wouldn't suggest meeting with an editor unless you are really confident your proposal is solid, and your writing is publication ready. That's sort of rare coming out of the gate, even if you've hired a freelance editor (though that definitely helps) I'm not saying DON'T meet with an editor, because its' great experience and they'll give you constructive advice whether they like your submission or not (and of course, it totally COULD be a gateway!) I'm just saying don't choose an editor appointment OVER an agent or mentor appointment if you have to make the choice. Because they'll be more beneficial to you at this stage. If you can finagle all 3, score! :)
As for one sheets, they need to represent your book in theme/mood with a quality photo, your author photo, your bio, and a brief summary (think query letter style) of your book. With, of course, a catchy hook or tag line at the top by your title :) There's a ton of samples out there on the internet if you just google.
If you have questions, let me know! :) I love conference chat!
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Great post! And a great link to follow up with! I'll work hard on #3. And I'm already taking note that the Starbucks closes at 4pm - which is good, really, or I wouldn't sleep at all...
ReplyDeleteBetsy, this is awesome, and so helpful! Thanks for all the 'insider' information! :) And the tip on the Starbucks. I live in the Northwest, so coffee is usually at the top of priority lists around here. Ha.
ReplyDeleteIt's hard to believe we're less than two months out now. I definitely have some work to do, but at least I feel better about what needs to happen now!
Oh, I did have one other question - is there a good way to find a roommate? It would be more fun to not be completely alone (not to mention more cost effective...).
Dana....I just saw this. I'm looking for a roommate as well (preferably more than one to shave the cost more). Feel free to email me.
DeleteAlso, if you're a member of ACFW, you get a discount for a couple more weeks I think, and there is a first timer's loop going on right now for the conference.
2seejoy (at) gmail (dot) com
Dana, have you joined the ACFW? If you're a member, you can get on the main email loop (if you're not already) and on weekends (Saturday/Sunday) you can post a request for a roommate. Lots of people do that.
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