10 Ways to Get Noticed at a Writer’s Conference…Or Not

Over the years, I’ve attended various writers’ meetings and conferences.

It’s always fun to dish about the writing craft and make new friends along the way.

I have to admit…it’s interesting who gets noticed in a good way and who gets noticed in a (ahem…) not so good way.

Today I thought I’d take a lighthearted look at some real-life observations.

 Enjoy!

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 Guaranteed show-stoppers, eye-poppers, and jaw droppers:

• Wear the loudest color you can think of and then complement it a dozen different ways. These are A Must:  beads (three strands, please), bangles (at least four or five–on each wrist), a belt with charms, stylish tights, and heels that scream Catch me if I fall!

•  By all means, dress for the occasion. Nothing says “professional” like a well-tailored business suit. From 20 years ago.

•  Arrive fashionably late. Tip-toe inside the meeting room, but whisper a heartfelt apology to your neighbor on the right. Drat that pitcher of ice water anyway!

• DO gush about your dream publishing house during your appointment with the editor. Never mind that it’s NOT the publisher she represents.

• When visiting the powder room, ask several attendees if they’re enjoying the conference/meeting/seminar. Tell them one thing you like about it and 10 things you don’t. Be sure and say it with a smile, of course. You certainly don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings.

• If snacks/meals are being served, always remember your manners. Don’t diss the food in front of your server. Wait until he’s gone. And then help yourself to the last cookie on the serving platter.

• Apply mascara sparingly and at just the right time. Like during the Q & A time of the speaker’s presentation. At a table with 12 other people in a packed room of 100.

• Dump the entire contents of your handbag out on the table in search of your cell phone. And then turn it off.

• Toward the end of the speaker’s presentation, begin gathering your belongings. It’s not rude. You’re being efficient. And besides, that way you’ll be the first in line to introduce yourself.

• Thank the conference/meeting/seminar coordinators when the event is over. Ask them to consider having you as a speaker/presenter the next time around. Don’t be bashful; you have a lot to offer and you want the world to know it!

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 What’s the wildest thing you’ve seen or heard at a writers’ meeting/conference?

Any recommendations of what NOT to say or do when attending?

Photo Credit: dan/FreeDigitalPhotos.net