This week on Word Wranglers, we're talking about conferences. I've never been to one. I want to go to the RWA conference but every year something comes up. So, I'm saying the same thing I say every year. Maybe next time.
The thought of attending is a little daunting. Like D'Ann, I''m rather shy. No way could I go by myself. And pitching in person? Scary. I tend to ramble when I talk, so I could see myself confusing the hell out of an agent or editor. I also stutter when I'm nervous. I can also see myself sticking my foot in my mouth. Still working on that speak before you think habit I have.
I'd still like to go. I want to actually see what a conference is like. And every year there are some great authors there that I'd love to meet in person. Maybe one day I'll be some one's favorite author. Who Knows?
The thought of attending is a little daunting. Like D'Ann, I''m rather shy. No way could I go by myself. And pitching in person? Scary. I tend to ramble when I talk, so I could see myself confusing the hell out of an agent or editor. I also stutter when I'm nervous. I can also see myself sticking my foot in my mouth. Still working on that speak before you think habit I have.
I'd still like to go. I want to actually see what a conference is like. And every year there are some great authors there that I'd love to meet in person. Maybe one day I'll be some one's favorite author. Who Knows?
I'm sure one day you'll be that author. The RWA National conference is awesome. You can go and just attend the workshops and ceremonies. There's a wealth of info you'll learn plus you'll love the authors inspirational stories. I think it's always more fun to go with someone. I'm not one to hangout by myself in the lounge areas where you meet people.
ReplyDeleteEm, I think I'd probably be a workshop butterfly.
ReplyDeleteI think like the rest of writing, you have to remember to treat it like a career, not a hobby. At my 9-5 workplace, people are sent to conferences every year, for continuing education. Consider a conference a non-negotiable must-do for your career, and you will find a way to get there.
ReplyDeleteYou will be, I'm sure of it! For me, conferences are way more scary when I'm *thinking* about going...once I'm there, I have a do-or-die attitude - I figure I'm there, I'll make it work. :)
ReplyDeleteOne thing I've found helpful to conquer the shy bug, is to join a table where people are already talking, that way you can join in the conversation when you're ready. And keep remembering, writers are the nicest group of people as a whole. They are interested in what you're writing and how you're doing. Maybe it's our inherent inquisitive nature.
ReplyDeleteShawn~
ReplyDeleteMaybe we all should go together! Christi can lead the way, Kristi can follow behind, urging us on like a herd of cattle, Margie can guide us to the workshop where Liz will be speaking! See? It will be great!
Seriously, we gotta just do it. I'm going to the CRW romance lovers tea in Oct. That's a small step in the right direction. No pitching, though.
The hardest part is getting there. But once you are, the romance community is awesome! Someone is always coming up and greeting you and you'll soon feel at home. Seriously, just smile, be approachable and the rest just happens. You meet some really great people and make friends for life!
ReplyDeletelol. I was doing okay till you go to who the speaker was, D'Ann!
ReplyDeleteThere's so much fun to a conference, not the least of which is sitting in the bar with a bunch of other people, mostly women, who speak the same language you do.
Right there with you, D'Ann!
ReplyDelete