Writers’ Conference – Tips for authors attending writers’ conferences. This article was originally published in the Guide to Literary Agents (Writers’ Digest Books).
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Professional writer seeks available literary agent. Should be confident, experienced, and fun at parties. Must have a big heart but also be a tough negotiator. Should be creative, but grounded and consistent. Needs to be honest, emotionally available, and unafraid of long-term commitment. Shouldn’t be overextended. Must be of good character and well-liked and/or respected. Age and looks not important, but passion and charisma are a must. Long-distance relationships okay as long as you spend some time in New York.
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You know there’s a Prince (or Princess) Charming Literary Agent out there just for you. In fact, you could have written this ad yourself. But if he (let’s stick with “he” for simplicity’s sake) is out there – the literary agent of your dreams – and he’s available, how can you find him and make him yours? Of course you’ll need to have an irresistible book and query letter. But what else can you do to give yourself an edge?
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Reasons to Attend
a Writers’ Conference
Attending a writers’ conference is one of the best ways for you to initiate contact with a literary agent. Almost every writers’ conference I’ve been to lets you schedule author/agent appointments (10-20 minutes each). And, if formal appointments aren’t available at a writers’ conference, you can still approach a literary agent and make your pitch.
Just remember, good literary agents don’t represent books — they represent authors. So “who you are” is just as important as “what you write.” And nothing communicates who you are more than a face to face meeting at a writers’ conference. Attending a writers’ conference also communicates your willingness to grow as a writer, and your willingness to network.
Okay, let’s assume you’ve written a terrific book and pretend you just arrived at a writers’ conference (I’ll tell you how to find the best writers’ conferences in just a moment). During the writers’ conference opening night reception you spotted him — your dreamboat literary agent — from across the room. You liked his energy and the way he treated other writers in the buffet line. Plus, he had nice eyes and smelled good.
The next day you sat in on his workshop at the writers’ conference and asked an editor about his reputation. “Five stars,” she said with a nod and a smile. Now you’ve decided (after checking out every other agent at the writers’ conference) that he’s the one for you. And, today’s the day you’re going to make your move. How best to get his attention, without losing your dignity?
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Writers Conference
Literary Agent Pick-Up Tip #1:
BE YOURSELF
One of the biggest turnoffs for a literary agent is when a potential partner tries to be someone or something that she is not. If you want to pick up a literary agent at a writers’ conference, be yourself. If you’re funny, be funny. If you’re serious, be serious. And have faith that you’ll meet someone who understands and appreciates your style.
As literary agent, I always strove to be myself as well. My approach was more open, down-to-earth, and nurturing than most literary agents. As a result, some writers who met me at a writers’ conference might have wondered if I was strong negotiator. Others understood that a sensitive man isn’t necessarily weak.
You aren’t going to click with every literary agent you meet at a writers’ conference. If you’re a Supermodel on the prowl, but you’re also a brunette (and I prefer blondes), well… you get the picture. And don’t go out and dye your hair — find someone who prefers brunettes. Publishing, like dating, is highly subjective and personal. There are elements of logic, but there are also elements of emotion.
I used to pass on many publishable projects simply because I wasn’t in love with the concept, execution, and author. From my perspective, falling in “like” isn’t enough. You have to fall in love. That’s the only way that I was able to pitch my projects to editors and publishers with 100% enthusiasm. So I was always on the lookout for people (and projects) like that whenever I was at a writers’ conference.
If you’re nervous about your writers’ conference pitch meeting, do something to relax. Yoga. Tae Kwon Do. Ice cream. Whatever. If you shake uncontrollably or apologize repeatedly for being nervous, you aren’t going to score points. Literary agents smell fear and fear is never associated with success. Granted, if your burning hunk of a literary agent is indeed the one for you, he’ll look past your neuroses, accept you as you are, and put you at ease.
If he doesn’t, move on…
The world of publishing is a pond, not an ocean, but there are still plenty of fish to choose from. Remember, you have something worthwhile to offer your prospective partner. You’ve spent years developing your communication skills, you know what makes a relationship work, and you’re not going to be high-maintenance.
Once, while chatting with an author at a writers conference, a well-known author suggested I do something to make myself more memorable. Not because I made a bad impression, but because he’s a “first-impression guru.”
“I wear red shoes,” he said as I tried not to laugh.
“I think some people go too far to be remembered,” I said. “The last thing I need is to be on a panel at some writers conference and have someone ask me why I’m wearing red shoes. I’d have to say, ‘So people remember me.’ Yuck.”
If there’s something about you — externally — that makes you memorable, fine. Just don’t dwell on it. Beauty will get a man’s attention, but it won’t keep it there for long. Before you attend a writers’ conference, don’t go out and buy red shoes (or lingerie) to try and impress a literary agent. If you want to make a great first impression at a writers’ conference, be genuine. Let people remember you for something that really matters — not the way you look, but the way you make people feel.
Relax, and be yourself.
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Writers Conference
Literary Agent Pick-Up Tip #2:
FLIRT
Whatever you can do to make your dream literary agent feel good at your writers’ conference, do it. He’s been “on” for the last two days, aware that he’s constantly being watched. He’s been patient, attentive, and entertaining. He’s tired from a long flight and an even longer delay. And he was up late last night editing a manuscript when he wanted to be in the Jacuzzi.
In the last twelve hours at the writers’ conference he’s given a keynote presentation and two workshops, sat through twenty pitch sessions, and been approached by countless other authors — in the hallways, over meals, and in the bathroom (please, do not pass an agent your manuscript underneath a bathroom stall).
Or give an agent your room key.
Yes, it’s happened.
Be mindful of your prospective literary agent’s wants and needs at a writers’ conference, it’s an edge. The astute agent will notice, appreciate, and remember your kindness. And he will give your project closer attention. Less savvy agents may not recognize your gifts, but they, too, will feel the effect.
Approach agents at a writers’ conference with a confident walk (strut?) and a smile. But be gracious and thank each agent for his time. It might sound simple, but many authors fail to express their gratitude. Some authors feel entitled to the meeting because they paid for it, or paid to attend the writers’ conference. Some think their project is so good that agents should fawn over them. Some are insecure. Whatever the reason, it’s a faux pas. Saying, “Thank you for meeting with me” is good manners, and it sets a nice tone for your meeting.
Make your prospective agent blush by complimenting his presentation, eyes, or red shoes (if he’s wearing red shoes and you really think they look nice). Just compliment something, and make sure your compliment is genuine. Agents aren’t just editors, they are salespeople. And salespeople, especially good ones, detect insincerity.
Ask a question or two about your agent’s background. How did he get started? Does he have a dream project? Does he attend a lot of writers’ conferences? Expressing interest in him will make him purr.
If you really want to go for it, ask him if he has any down time during the writers’ conference. Invite him out for a drink or a meal. You can do this solo or invite him to join some of your friends. I rarely turned down such an offer at a writers’ conference unless I already had other plans. In that case, I’d often invite the author to join my party. You have nothing to lose by making such an offer.
It’s gracious of you to extend an invitation, and the worst an agent can say is no. It’s true that the fastest way to a man’s heart is his stomach. And if your dream literary agent connects with you on a personal level at a writers’ conference, he’s even more likely to say yes to your manuscript. In fact, you might be rescuing him from a dozen other writers that he might not connect with as well.
Don’t be shy, take a chance.
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Writers’ Conference Tips
Do you have a writers’ conference tip or story you’d like to share? Post it below in the comments section. Then click here to read Part 2 of this Writers’ Conferences article.
Mark Malatesta
Your “Undercover” Agent
P.S. – For more information regarding any of the following, visit Shaw Guides: California Writers’ Conference, UND Writers’ Conference, New York Writers’ Conference, 2013 Writers’ Conference, Literary Agent Writers’ Conference, Summer Writers’ Conference, Writers’ Workshop Conference.
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MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
Hi again Mark,
very good tips so far. Like always, it’s uplifting and informative. I’m looking forward to a writers conference in the Ottawa area and let you know how that goes.
You do great work and I’m glad I made the choice to work with you. once I land a book deal, I would like to meet with you and celebrate. I hope it will be soon.
Until then all my best to you
Andre
Thank you Andre… and another one of my clients just emailed me… 5 minutes ago… just got an offer letter from a top agency… stick with it… and then it’s breakfast, brunch, or lunch on me. 😉
Have a great day!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Any advice on how to overcome shyness or how to not get tongue-tied when you try to pitch? I am such a bad salesperson, lol. Much better at writing than speaking…
Hi Nikki! Other that what’s in my article, practice ahead of time with a friend could really help. And you’re supposed to be better at writing than speaking and schmoozing. You’re a writer. 😉
If you want help with anything else, you can post questions for me online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/.
I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work. And my apologies for the slow response time. For some reason your comment went to my spam folder and I didn’t see it.
Have a good night!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Hey Mark! First off I’m so thankful for you and all of the advice you give:)This article was hilarious and informative as well as I’m sure you know.I’ve never been to a writers conference before but now I look forward to it because of how you described it here.But I’m a minor(plz don’t judge I’m serious about this)and I was wondering if there was an age limit at these conferences or if I would need to bring an adult(I really don’t because no one in my family knows anything about this business)?
Hi Summer, glad you liked the article and thank you for saying so. Does a writer ever get tired of hearing things like that? 😉 And sorry I’m slow getting back to you. Right after you posted your question, I had some website issues that caused me some problems. But now I’m back.
Now, to your question…
Read this article, it will help: https://literary-agents.com/young-authors/.
If you want help with anything else, you can post questions for me online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. You can also (if you haven’t done so already) get access (no cost) to all the valuable resources in our private, members-only area here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. And you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/.
Either way, I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work.
And have a great week!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Thanks so much for the article I’m already starting to read it :)And no need to apologize I’m just happy for the reply 😉 I’ll be sure to use the link for any further questions so thanks again! As for the coaching calls I do plan on taking you up on that once I get a job and can pay for it on my own 🙂 You’ll be hearing more of me that’s for sure lol. Thanks for all of the articles and broadcasts and everything else in between, they have really helped me and I cannot say thank you enough!
Thank you Summer, you’ve very welcome… I love the enthusiasm and appreciate the kindness. 😉
Have a great day and I’ll see you soon then on the other side!
All my best,
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Mark,
If you’re still reading comments on this helpful post… How important is a writer’s wardrobe at a conference? I ask because I’m extremely casual (Levi’s and track shoes). I work for a wildlife agency, so seldom need to dress up, and hate to, anyway. Does “be yourself” apply to clothing, or would I be judged unprofessional (or worse), wearing neat, clean, but super-casual clothes at the San Francisco Writers Conference? (I’m FROM the SF Bay Area, by the way.) Thank you for all your advice.
Hi Dana, thank you for the kind words. Dress shouldn’t matter, but I’d still go business casual. Take it up a notch. It’s not exactly a job interview or a first day, but… well… it sort of is.
If you want help with anything else, you can post questions for me online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/. I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work.
All my best,
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
Love this article. It definitely helps to remember that Agents are looking for their soul mates, too. No one is trolling for a one night stand. That both raises the stakes but also lowers the anxiety level because an agent’s business depends on me as much as mine depends on him (or her). I also think it would be way worse to hook an agent who isn’t a good fit for me and end up contracted with that person in an unhappy but legally binding relationship. | Writers’ Conference
Hi Susan. I love that you love it. You could probably tell that I took my time with this one and enjoyed writing it… more than most. So thank you for the feedback. 😉 Some agents are looking for a one night stand or one hit wonder, but not most. Good agents want what you want. Long term success with someone they genuinely like and care about. Hold out for someone good. And have a great weekend! Mark | Writers Conference
Hi Mark
Informative article because it shows me how to approach agents and I admit I was never comfortable
approaching total strangers for anything. Like everyone else, I worry about rejection. Is it appropriate to discuss the manuscript at my party if he accepts my invitation? What do you do if you approach an agent at the conference and after all the niceties, he says he has no interest in reading your manuscript? | Writers Conference
Hi SawLian, agents are people too and they want what you have to offer. So just remember that and you’ll be fine. You can pitch an agent anywhere. Just make sure you ask him or her a few questions about what they’re working on first. If the agent isn’t interested, nothing you can do but move on to the next one. 😉 Mark | Writers Conference
Dear Mark,
Great tips for the writers conference.
I attended Mipcom (Cannes) and Kidscreen (New York) a few years back to pitch a television series I had written. Being honest and genuine was the key. My idea was in its infancy but my black (country) hat and passion made them want to know what I had to offer, and they like it. I’m sure an agent cannot resist someone with a good idea backed with passion and a fresh look. Maybe a breath of fresh for them in a stuffy room! Thanks again Mark. Bryce | Writers Conference
Hi Bryce, you are absolutely right. That’t the perfect combination. By the way, half the reason you probably understand that fact is that you have those things going for YOU. Thanks for reading and posting. Have a great week and see you again soon. Your fellow 5amer. Mark | Writers Conference
I liked this — simple, basic, and genuine. Thanks, Mark. | Writers Conference
Thank you Ellen, you just made my day. Mark | Writers Conference
I’m eager for part 2 because part 1is so informative and has a positive ring that is motivational for the ‘published author-hopefuls’ reading it. Thank you for the solid advice you regularly provide. — My dreams are reinforced when I read your postings and work at making improvements in the ways you recommend. (And it’s great that you’re still trying to maintain a healthier eating program. Way to go, Ingrid!)) | Writers Conference
Hi Rhymster, have I told you lately that I appreciate your support and love your enthusiasm? You get me fired up and remind me why I do what I do. Last week I started back in the gym. Every muscle in my body is aching right now (but, in a good way). Go Ingrid is right. Thanks for posting and see you soon. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on Part 2! Mark | Writers Conference
I could relate to everything said in the article. It made me remember attending banking conventions. I am a retired banker, and it was always a good idea when attending a Remote Job Entry conference to connect with other bankers. You never knew when you may need their help, or they need you in their contingency plan. I have on several occasions balanced other banks that had trouble with their equipment and could not get their reports. Connections are the same the world over. | Writers Conference
Hi Jan, good point…. and face-to-face connections can be a lot more powerful than those made by email or snail mail. Connections aren’t everything, but they sure are something. Thanks for posting and have a great week! Mark | Writers Conference
Sorry, I have never been to writer’s conference; but I’ve done other things. I’ve sung for Elisabeth Schwarzkopf, Mirella Freni and Gundula Janowitz and had beer with Austen Seaholm and chatted with others. I know it doesn’t count.
There’s huge difference between me and my mother who froze and couldn’t even play a scale in front of her kids although trained concert pianist. I had virtually no training and first audition was before the best of best: Drese, General Direktor of WienerStaatsoper | Writers Conference
I loved it. It was best experience of my life. Everything else is nothing in comparison.
My teacher told me: Everybody gets nervous. Everybody. If you are afraid, remember you have a little basket with you–the type they take to farmer’s market. When enter that door, take off your fear just like a coat and put it in that basket and leave the basket at the door. Nobody can wear fear in that room and just go in and sing because they are there for you– you are the reason why they are there. | Writers Conference
truly nothing is more wonderful than singing for the General Direktion of Wiener Staatsoper. Nothing matches this incredible experience of all those people up on that big long long table and the huge rehearsal room and the fantastic acoustics and the total amazement and pleasure when I sang for them.
As soloist, you must just do your thing. If the pianist stomps on the gas, you have to put the brakes on him; it’s your show and they are really there for you. You bring your best. | Writers Conference
Later when it’s finished and they’ve stopped you, you can leave and when you exit the room, the basket of fear will still be there, so you can pick it up and panic later.
I totally forgot it and went out exuberant because I knew by the reaction how well I’d sung–and then I came to Prague and career destroyed.
When you have the opportunity, dragging a basket of fear around is just a huge burden, so leave it in the cloakroom and present yourself. There’s no second chance ever, so make it good | Writers Conference
Hi pogo, many things to like about your comments this week. My favorite part, that I think will help lots of people, is remembering that you are the reason literary agents are reading queries. That takes away some of the intimidation factor. Thanks for sharing your experience and insight, and have a great week. Mark | Writers Conference
Been to several writers conferences here in Tallahassee Florida. Enjoyed it much — Learned a pretty good bit. Talked to several agents — sent some material. I believe the responses I got. Had dinner with an agent and editor wife — had a Bar-B-Que connection — sent him a supply of my famous table sauce. The happy ending of this ditty has not yet been written. Ken | Writers Conference
Hi Ken, glad to hear you’ve been to some writers conferences. They’re good for you on so many different levels, and they can be a lot of fun. Thanks for posting and have a great week. And here’s to hoping your BBQ connection turns into something long-lasting. Do let me/us know how it goes! Mark | Writers Conference
Very informative information. Thank you so much. I think writing conference’s would be great, though I do not need another( better half)…However I do have red shoes but they are most likely a little different than yours. | Writers Conference
Hi Danise, glad you liked the article. Also happy to hear that you don’t need another half but you do have red shoes. Maybe I’ll see you at a writers conference one of these days. Until then, don’t be a stranger and be sure to post any questions you have here… if there’s anything I can help you with. Mark | Writers Conference
Alas, I haven’t been to any conferences (more of a money/travel thing for me than anything else), but I hope to someday. I guess I’m just lucky I’m witty and fun on the phone, in emails, and on social media. :p Which, I think are good strengths (especially having personality inside the written word) when you’re an author. | Writers Conference
Hey Becca, when you do… you’re going to love it. Although, by the time you get around to it, you might be giving a seminar or participating on a panel. 😉 Mark | Writers Conference
I was invited to be on a panel at AnthoCon in NH, but couldn’t make it. That was a big bummer for me. | Writers Conference
Mark – What an amazing article! Thank you.
I noticed the upcoming Florida Heritage Book Festival and Writers Conference is almost in my back yard (St. Augustine, Florida). What are your thoughts about this particular conference? (Answer offline if that’s better for you.)
Again, thanks for the eye-opener. Now, excuse me. I need to go put some fresh polish on my red shoes….
Craig | Writers Conference
Hi Craig, can you tell I had fun with this article? It’s one of the first ones I ever wrote for authors… way back when. I don’t think I’ve ever spoken at the conference you’re asking about… and I don’t know anything about it. Post a link for me here and I’ll check it out and give you some feedback. Now you can get back to polishing those shoes (er, I mean manuscript). 😉 Talk soon. Mark | Writers Conference