Making contacts at writer conferences

As we draw closer to our yearly writers conference, I frequently am asked how one makes contacts while at the conference.  We used to call it schmoozing but now it's called Networking. :)

Here are some suggestions from my own personal experience at writer conferences.

1)  In between your workshops, if time allows, go where the people are and plant yourself in that area.  If you notice someone with a conference name tag who is sitting alone, don't be afraid to strike up a conversation even if the are an attendee
like yourself and not a workshop presenter. This will give you a chance to practice your networking skills. They might be as terrified as you are, if this is their first writers conference and your "hello" will help you overcome your networking fears.

2)  Don't wait for opportunities.  Great business deals are made, not born.  For example:  While you're hanging out waiting for a workshop to begin you might just spot someone you're dying to meet.  Why not say hello?  The person you've targeted might simply return your greeting, but you may get lucky and they will actually chat a bit with you. If not, don't worry about it and remain gracious.  But lets say this person appears to be interested in conversing with you. You'll need to make a quick decision as to whether you want to attend the workshop you were anticipating, or continue this conversation with the possibility it could develop into something that could help your writing career.  Do you skip the workshop?  If you absolutely must attend, then ask this person if you could meet for a drink or cup of coffee after the class.  In my own experience, I met an author who was killing time by herself at one of the lunch tables.  I sat down at the same table telling her I finally had a break to rest from all the fun.  She laughed and we struck up a great conversation.  Turns out she had been interviewed on the Oprah Winfrey Show and told me all about her experiences there.  It didn't do anything per se for my career, but I listened carefully at the gems of information she dropped while chatting.  That in itself was well worth the schmoozing.

3)  Please remember that agents, publishers, etc. are human beings just alike yourself and there is no need to be terryfied at approaching them when the opportunity presents itself.  Even if the answer is "no" to your request for a chin wag after a workshop, take it graciously and move on.  My late father-in-law, who was a Fuller Brush salesman for many years, once told me , "If you knock on enough doors, law of averages will be on your side and sooner or later, one will open."  He proved that by his many successful sales. and awards.  So why not give it a go?  Perserverance is another name for success.

Note: Writer conferences are also a great place to meet other writers from your local area who write in your field.  It will also expand your contacts outside of your field of interest  - It's all good! 

(photo submission by my son Paul while at King Ranch, Big island of Hawaii)