Invariably when on a public forum, be it a panel, a book festival or a book signing, an aspiring writer will stop by for a chat.
I paid attention to the response of authors when asked for help, and noticed, now that I’m on the other side of the table, that authors eagerly comply, and offer valued advice to join organizations, writing groups, critique groups and all the other accoutrements that come with writing and the ever elusive attempt at getting published. The one mentioned most frequently – do not bring copies of your manuscript with you.
First you have to lug it, and second, the publisher, agent or editor, isn’t going to take it off your hands, and carry reams of paper along with books, promotional material and anything else they had to bring to the event. The paper gets heavier as the day gets longer. Leave it home. Network, make contacts, and attend conferences; that will get you closer to publication. Looking like you haven’t done your homework won’t.
I personally have found that authors are accessible, helpful and willing to share their knowledge. I have found camaraderie that goes beyond writing and acceptance and am profoundly grateful to be a member of the writing family.
Till next Saturday,
Margot Justes
A Hotel in Paris
The Heat of the Moment
Available on amazon.com
www.mjustes.com
Echelon Press LLC
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