Maybe you’re a published-but-relatively-unknown writer or illustrator who’s wondering whether you should go to ALA (or IRA or BEA or any of the other big national conferences). Or maybe you’re already going, but you have no idea what to do there. Or, just maybe, you’re lucky enough to have your publisher sending you and paying your way–but you still have no idea what to do!
It’s always fun to see the cool marketing stuff publishers do…
I’ve been in all three situations, and it’s nerve-wracking no matter how I go. But it can?also be lots of fun as well as good for you professionally.?So I’ve gathered up tips I’ve learned?the past couple of years. They’d have been even more useful if I’d have’remembered them all on my trips,?instead of on the plane rides home! Anyway, perhaps a few of them will be useful to you when national conference time rolls around again.?Keep in mind in not the belle of the ball at these things, just someone muddling through the best she can.
#1 – You’re traveling–see?a few’sights!
#2 – Learn from your colleagues
#3 – Set some goals?
#4 – Rock your signings
#5 – Meet online friends
#6 – Attend things!
#7 – What do you say?
#8 – Conference fashion (such as it is)
#9 – Mind your manners
#10 – Don’t forget to pack…
Have fun! And?if you want to get more of an idea of how things look, how people dress, etc., click here to see some pictures from my 2009?ALA trip (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday)?and 2010 ALA trip.