1st Author Panel

The Northern Colorado Writer's 1st Author Panel went very well last night. I made some good contacts as I believe the other three authors did. Jim Davidson and Kevin Vaughan are collaborating on a book about Jim's climbing experience on Mt. Ranier when he lost a friend after the two fell through a snow bridge into a crevasse. Lindsay Eland's Scones and Sensibility was released in December, 2009. It's about a girl who thinks she should have been born in a more romantic time like that of Pride and Prejudice. I look forward to reading each of their books and wish them all much success.

After each author related information about their writing and publishing story, the audience of about twenty-five people asked excellent questions. Kerrie had to call a stop or we'd have gone overtime. Then we had time to mingle and network.

Networking is the name of the game whether it be through a meeting like last night, a conference or through online social networks such as Facebook, Linkedin, or Twitter. I have trouble networking in any venue. Thank goodness one school media specialist came up and introduced herself. None of the authors felt they utilized their online social networks enough. I personally need to get better at it.

Another form of networking is following blogs. Following quietly, according to Kerrie Flanagan the director of Northern Colorado Writers, does no good. You must make comments so your name gets in front of other readers. I try to ask a question that encourages readers to comment at the end of my blogs. Once more people get connected to me, perhaps there will be more comments and helpful hint for writers.

At conferences approach editors, agents or other writers during cocktail time or sit with them at lunch. I have forced myself in the past to do both with good results. When I pitched to one editor, she commented she remembered me from lunch the previous year. She asked to see my manuscript and took it pretty far up the publisher's ladder before the marketing department rejected it. Another time an editor, during a conversation at aconference cocktail party, said he was open to submissions even though I'd not given my elevator pitch. In each case you have the opportunity to say in your query or cover letter that you've met the editor/agent and when. They then give you a little more consideration.

I Googled networking but came up with job networking. Of course, a writer is selling himself and his writing which amounts to a job. Perhaps you know of a good article on networking you can share.