5 Ways to Prepare for a Writer’s Conference

If your a writer like I am, then it is inevitable that you will end up at a writer’s conference. When we are serious about our profession as a writer it becomes and investment in our craft. I have been to a few, so I am going to be sharing with you five ways to prepare for a conference. They are meant to be simple and keep you motivated!

1. Pray – My Pastor shares this quote often, “Work as if everything depends on you, Pray as if everything depends on God.” No matter what we are doing God should be at the center of it. Spend time praying specifically for your needs, and praying Scriptures. Here are a few that I focus on when I am preparing for a conference. 
2. Represent yourself well – The best way a writer can go into a conference is to be prepared to represent themselves well. If this is a conference where you can meet with Publishers or Agents then you will need a professional one-sheet, business card, and possibly a book proposal depending on your project. There are amazing resources and graphic designers that can help you create these products. (Vista Print is a great tool for printing!)
3. Being a Writer is a real job – One of the things I have wrestled with is claiming writer as a real job. Believe in your calling and claim it. Publishers, agents and others will quickly know if you believe what you do is a real job. Be confident when someone asks you what you do. I AM A WRITER!
4. Leave the introvert at home – Most writers I know are introverts. They appreciate their time alone, don’t know how to handle crowds and often have trouble in situations where they are forced outside their comfort zone…or is that just me? Be willing to step outside your box, introduce yourself, and smile. Embrace being an extrovert for a few days.
5. Release expectations – Your worst enemy is building up expectations of yourself and others. Most often things never go as we plan or want. Releasing expectations allows us to give grace to ourselves and others. More than anything else, have fun! These are the best places to meet other writers who get you. They understand your profession and will be an encouragement. Let go of expectations and find the joy in the small abundance that comes from being with other writers like you!