On Writing : Writing Conferences by Tessa Shaffer

Never been to a writing conference yet but as a fellow introvert I can understand. Have to second the more relaxed pitching/critiques :)

If it's one-on-one pitching, I've learned the hard way to be more casual. Sounds odd to say but less pitching and more interest in what they are doing - their passion projects

David C. Velasco I think many writers struggle between advancing their career outside of their comfort zone and staying in their comfort zone, it's tough!

David Santo Exactly! We're hosting a conference this fall and I want to be very mindful to make it casual and fun for both agents/editors/producers as well as the writers who attend and pitch. I think more connections happen that way and all walk away with a positive experience. =)

I have never been to a writing conference, but I suspect for me, the overwhelming anxiety will be confidence shattering. Trembling lips will spew jumbled lines of nonsense, and agents would run away faster than the cat escaping pepe le pew. I used to converse with Admirals who had awesome destructive power at their fingertips...yet, the mildest mannered agent frightens me.

Abdur Mohammed I totally understand. Many agents are very cool, down to earth, and regular people but the situation of pitching puts agents on a pedestal and puts writers on the spot.

I find conferences are useful on two levels: learning from the presentations/discussions. And, networking (either formally at happy hours/parties or informally during abundant spare time after presentations/discussions. As an introvert, I have learned to be comfortable across all settings, but I also go into such events with some ideas about what I’m going to say.

Mostly my fear of failing with these ideas I’ve been working on what seems like a lifetime -to be shot down in mere seconds! Writing seminars are usually business like and can feel lonely. I really like the casual meet ups with a social vibe so that we can all connect at a human level- making it feel more like a support group. That being said, I’d love to hear more about your conference Tessa!

I'm not sure I've ever been to one, truth be told. Been to my fair share of SciFi conventions, of course, where SciFi novelists and comic book writers speak and sign stuff, but never for writing.

I agree with you, Tessa! I've only attended one conference with my sister (who sadly passed a few years ago) and I found the (comfortable) networking to be the best part as well. I am an author published by two independent publishing houses and have only dipped my toes into screenwriting so far. I have one script in progress at this time. It's a comedy pilot so, we'll see...hopeful though.

Looking for anything Tessa?

Unfortunately, I've never been to one as there has never been one near to where I live or within good travelling distance. I'd love to go to one though! Very exciting!

I've been to writer's conferences as a speaker, but never just as a visitor. But even as a speaker or panelist, the purpose is largely the same. I mean, you're up front telling others how to work on this or that aspect of craft, and also hoping to impress some enough to want to buy your books. But as soon as your stint is over, then you're networking, attending other sessions, trying to get to know people in your field who might be willing to blurb your books, be your agent, etc. I'm an introvert, too. I have a much easier time standing in front of the room talking than walking up to a stranger and making conversation. But good connections can be made, so it's worth the effort

I've been to dozens of conferences, in L.A., NYC, Chicago, Monterey, etc. I've been an introvert since a very shy childhood. However, I discovered that, once a panel is finished, I can talk to anyone about the content and what the speakers said: Attendees sitting near me, people in the aisles, the speakers themselves, the greeter at the door. Easy peasey. I just say, "What did you think of that session? I really liked it because xxxxx." Or, to a panelist, "I loved what you said about xxxxx." Like magic, a conversation will begin. And people will think you're an extravert!

Tessa, I believe we have to be prepared for all kinds of questions about our work, being part of a conference. I learned from pain that the knowledge of the world to which we are inserted is fundamental to have a healthy and non-vexatiative participation.

Personally, I like to listen first to elaborate a response due to keep the conversation segment in a healthy and captivating way.

We need a great place for writer to just speak their minds and share ideas. The Writers' Room here would be nice if my budget could take another $30/month hit. I think my wife would hit me if I took on another budget item for my writing. There are never ending expenses to getting started. Sorry. I digress. Always glad to discuss screenwriting, writing novels, publishing, cover designs, or if you're just having a crappy day. scifiwriter@twc.com.

I went to the Screencraft writers' summit. I met some great people! I am rubbish at small talk and don't just go up to people and join conversations. No one knows who you are so you can dress and act however you want. The real trick is to drink as much as you can as fast as you can