You’re at a writers’ conference, and you finally have a chance to sit in fro
nt of the literary agent you know would be perfect to represent your books and an editor from your favorite publishing house…
And you’re so nervous that you can barely put two words together, much less spit out the elevator pitch you practiced to perfection on the trip there and thought you would never be able to forget. Now what?
DON’T WORRY!
Really. Don’t worry. The people you’re talking to are there because they want to hear about the stories people have. They want to know about your book. They hope you have a story they’ll love. They want to see your passion for your story and your writing and hope it is one they can share.
And if it isn’t?
They’re not going to tear you down or rip your story apart. Really!
Whether it’s not something they’re looking for, or they think your story needs some work, agents and editors want to encourage you. They know writing is a solitary activity, and understand that authors need encouragement. That may be the biggest benefit from attending a conference, along with the excitement it generates. Writers return home renewed, regenerated, and pumped to write more (and better). The people you have appointments with have the privilege of being a part of that process!