Your Fifteen Minutes

Whether you write for children or adults, or both, meeting with industry professionals at writers’ conferences is essential.

But what do you do with that fifteen-minutes slot?

I asked several editors that question a few months ago. Here are some of their suggestions. But don’t try to do ALL of these in one session. Focus on those that apply to you and your writing.

• Most editors do not bite.
• Come prepared with a few questions to ask the editor.
• Familiarize yourself with that publisher or agency BEFORE the conference. Study their website.
• Be truthful. If you don’t have a book published say so.
• Be prepared to talk about yourself and your writing. Your passion should shine through.
• Feel free to ask for general help in plotting your writing course.
• Leave contact info with them such as a professional business card or a one-sheet.
• Decide in advance on your reason for the appointment. Do you have a book idea to sell? Do you need advice? Do you want the editor/agent to glance at a proposal and give you tips on how to improve it? Do you want to brainstorm a story idea? Would you like recommendations for other publishers to submit to?
• Pitch only one project unless the editor/agent asks for another one.
• Ask him/her what they are looking for, or what literature they love and hate.
• Pitch your story in less than five minutes Then stop talking and listen.
• Know your genre, theme and target audience.
• Watch the time—be courteous and don’t make others wait.
• Ask, “If I incorporate your suggestions would you be willing to review my proposal/manuscript?”
• Be grateful and gracious.
• Be flexible. Sometimes things happen!
• Follow up with a SHORT email thanking them for their time.
• Anticipate some questions such as: How does your story end? What published author’s style would you compare yours to? Who are your favorite authors in your genre? Is this part of a series? What are the subsequent books about? Do you participate in a critique group? Have you pitched this to others? What response did you get?
• Be yourself—your best self. Be open, humble and genuine.
• If the editor/agent is reading your material be silent and let them read.
• Answer their questions the best you can without defending your work.
• Trust the Lord to open the right doors and forge the right relationships for you.

Jean Hall lives in Louisville, Kentucky. She is represented by Cyle Young of Hartline Literary. Her premier picture book series Four Seasons was recently signed by Little Lamb Books. Jean is a member of the SCBWI, Word Weavers International, and the Kentucky Christian Writers. Visit Jean at www.jeanmatthewhall.com, on Facebook at Jean Matthew Hall, and on Twitter as @Jean_Hall.