Conference: Oh, the Amazing Things You Learn

When I think of learning at conferences, I think of workshops. I didn't realize how much I'd learn in the lobby.

It amazed me how much information seeped in just from speaking to other writers. And I'm not talking about craft secrets or anything like that. I'm talking about small clips of conversations that settled into my brain and left an impact. Here's a sample:

-When I met a writer, I asked what they wrote. Four out of five said paranormal. And paranormal is still a hot genre. I just didn't realize how many wrote it! (Not a formal poll--just my interpretation.)

-The published writers I met shared their ups and their downs. They struggle with many of the same things I do, which surprised me.

-The agent I pitched to said three words that changed my mind about my submission strategy. Three words!

-Agents who blog and who have a massive web presence will give an author different advice about platforms than agents who don't.

-One best-selling author made a huge impression on me. She was at the literacy signing, and my friend and I walked past her table. She stopped us, waving her bookmarks, and we had a nice conversation. She went out of her way to make a personal connection with us, even though the room held thousands of people. Guess who bought her book? We both did. Lesson learned? You're never too big to not hand-sell your book. And people buy books from authors they like.
Wondering who the author was? Well, let's just say I plan on buying Jenna Petersen's books from now on. Talk about a funny, genuine, and inspiring lady.

When you return from conference, spend an hour or two and think about the little conversation tidbits that left an imprint on you. Analyze the people who impressed you and figure out why. This is the information that will stay with you forever.

Has a tidbit of information ever completely changed your course?

***I want to thank everyone who follows my blog. I've noticed new names over the past month. Thanks so much for taking the time to subscribe. I really appreciate your support. ***

Join me on Friday when we'll discuss unexpected feelings about a conference.

Happy Writing!

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