Getting Ready For Anaheim

It is getting that time again. I am sure it is already a huge topic on all of the loops out there. Anaheim and the RWA National Conference is closer than we think. So, with that in mind, I thought I would toss out a few things to remember for the upcoming festivities.

AN INVITATION
First with the business... If your writing group or chapter is getting together during nationals, please make sure to send out an invite to the professionals attending the conference. This is a chance to really get to know who these people are in a casual setting. As for me, this is also a chance to pitch projects to me. I know getting an appointment is tight so take advantage of any opportunity.
If you want me to visit, all you have to do is ask!

ELEVATOR PITCHES and Q & A's
I have always laughed at this. You all practice your elevator pitches but A) never give pitch to those editors and agents outside of official pitch sessions; B) Don't know who the editors and agents are; or C) can't pitch because the editors and agents say not to.

Well, I don't say that.

If you see me out and about at the conference, come by and say hi. If you have a story, then pitch it.

PITCH IF YOU ARE READY TO SUBMIT
Do not...(I repeat)...DO NOT pitch a story that is not ready to be handed to the editor or agent right there and then. No, this doesn't mean that you will do that, but the story needs to be that finished. Telling us that you still have work to do, or that the story is still out with your C.P's is not ready. Along the same lines, DO NOT pitch a story that is still in the planning stage.

DO YOUR RESEARCH
If you one of the fortunate few who can get an appointment with an editor or agent, please do your research first. If your story doesn't fit with what they want, CANCEL!!!! Pitching a project that is a certainty to get a rejection sucks up the time for someone else who might have a better chance.

THIS IS A PROFESSIONAL CONFERENCE
Look, if you want to simply party, find another conference. This is a professional conference and we expect professional behavior. Dress appropriately. Act appropriately. Simply be professional. Yes, there are times and places to have fun, but even here, keep it professional. You never know who is watching.

ATTEND THOSE SPOTLIGHT SESSIONS
This is a chance for you to ask editors questions and also a chance to find out what these people are looking for.

DO NOT ATTEND SESSIONS JUST BECAUSE SOMEONE FAMOUS IS THERE
Sure, these sessions are fun, but you should be here to learn and grow as an author. Remember that these writers have likely been in business for A LOT of years. Their approaches to writing and their approaches to business will be different than yours simply because they are at a different stage in their career.

HAVE FUN BUT LEARN
Hey, you paid a lot of money to attend this conference. Air, Hotel, Conference fees, and so forth do add up. Don't blow it being stupid!

Scott