Tips for a Successful Conference Experience

By Jennifer Hallmark

Is anything more beautiful than the Blue Lake area in the springtime? I mean, the beach is only an hour’s drive from this wooded paradise. Warm days and cool nights nestled on the edge of a picturesque lake is my idea of a vacation. But wait. This trip to the Blue Lake Christian Writer’s Conference will provide opportunities to meet other writers, learn about the craft, and discuss my work with people in the publishing industry.

If I’ve learned anything in my sixteen years of serious writing, it’s that who I am is more important than what I do. I am my own brand. Readers, as well as people in the industry, look at me as much as my words. So, how can I enjoy a successful conference?

1. Be early. I realize that, at a conference, everything starts early and the days are long. I’m studying everything about the conference and will arrive in plenty of time to become familiar with the building and classrooms. I want to make a good impression by arriving at appointments and classes promptly.
2. Be prepared. Decide what classes you want to take before you arrive. The website gives information on what you need to bring. I carry a notebook, several pens, and any handouts a teacher requires.
3. Be a neat person. You don’t need to wear designer clothes or bring your hairstylist with you. Business casual works well at most conferences, but mainly be yourself. Well-groomed is a better look than “just crawled out of bed.”
4. Be polite and kind. To everyone—people working the registration table, teachers, conference directors, cafeteria workers, groundskeepers. You never know who is watching. Think of the Golden Rule. (Matthew 7:12) Treat people like you want to be treated.
5. Be loud and clear while speaking. I struggle with this, as a soft-spoken Southerner. I look people in the eye while making an effort to be clear and concise in my speech. And offer a strong handshake. We don’t want to come across as wimpy. (Even if we are) 😊
6. Be willing to listen as much as you speak. Writing can be a lonely occupation, and you could be tempted to share all your dreams and aspirations with everyone you meet. Curb that impulse. Ask others about themselves, and what their dreams and aspirations are. You might learn something and gain new friends.
7. Be a person with a positive attitude. If you enter the conference with a feeling of thankfulness and gratefulness over the work and time it takes to plan an event, you won’t be looking for problems. No one wants to be around a negative person—grumbling, whining and complaining. Such an attitude is likely to repel editors, agents, and publishers, as well as other conferees. Decide on day one that you’re glad to be there.

To the best of your ability, try to be early and prepared, presenting yourself as a neat person who’s polite and kind to everyone. Speak up, listen, and then share. Wrap yourself in a positive attitude and I promise, you’ll not only enjoy the conference more, but you’ll come across as a professional and an “authentic” person. You never know what doors might open for you.

Time to start planning for another great experience at Blue Lake. See you there!