Next week I'll be attending the RWA convention for the first time. Huge deal for me. While I have no problem striking up a cyber conversation, I'm in the dark when it comes to the art of mingling and networking in the real world.
I'm the person who'll sit at an empty table looking really interested in the drink I'm holding onto like it's the last drink on a desert planet. This year, I'm going to try to let my inner extrovert come out. Okay, that sentence sounded a little weird didn't it? But I refuse to hit the delete button. Even thought my fingers are itching in protest.
The thing is, once I get over the frayed nerves when in a large group, I can talk a person's ear off. I'll try not to do that.
Although I'm nervous, I'm excited too. Books and more books to be had. Maybe I'll discover a new author. Maybe someone will discover me. One thing for sure. I'll remember this for a long time!
I'm the person who'll sit at an empty table looking really interested in the drink I'm holding onto like it's the last drink on a desert planet. This year, I'm going to try to let my inner extrovert come out. Okay, that sentence sounded a little weird didn't it? But I refuse to hit the delete button. Even thought my fingers are itching in protest.
The thing is, once I get over the frayed nerves when in a large group, I can talk a person's ear off. I'll try not to do that.
Although I'm nervous, I'm excited too. Books and more books to be had. Maybe I'll discover a new author. Maybe someone will discover me. One thing for sure. I'll remember this for a long time!
I feel your angst. I attended several RWA conventions, but had my writing buds with me. I don't know how well I'd do on my own. Hope you met some cool contacts.
ReplyDeleteThanks Em. I hope so too!
DeleteI hope you have the greatest time, and I can't wait to "hear" about it. The whole alone thing throws me, too.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure there will be lots to tell!
DeleteHave fun, Shawn. The fear of being among a lot of ppl like that terrifies me. You can do it!
ReplyDeleteI think it's about time I step out of my comfort zone!
DeleteHere's the thing about writer's conferences---you're all writers, readers, and people who want to do both. Instant common denominator.
ReplyDeleteAnd because you're surrounded by writers, you are also surrounded by a lot of introverts--look at the comments garnered here--everyone has confessed to being unsure around strangers. And I'm one too.
You have an advantage that you're on your home turf. A lot of the people you meet may be visiting Atlanta for the first time--look conversation starter :)
Best conference conversation starter--"What do you write?" Because all writers want to brag about their literary 'babies'.
On the bright side, if you say something stupid, you'll never see that person again :) Always a silver-lining.
Trust me--it will be great. You'll be great! Have a blast. Can't wait to get the scoop.
Thanks Margie. I'm feeling better about the whole thing now.
DeleteI'm great one on one, but horrible in large crowds. Fortunately, everyone at Nationals is super friendly, and, BTW, you're not going to be able to find a table to hide at. If you see me, just wave and call out.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ella. I'm glad there'll be a few familiar faces there!
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