I attended the Bayou Writers Conference today in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Attending the conference brought many rewards. I met other writers, editors, and publishers--all with good advice.
Some of the things gleaned from the conference are:
- Networking with people is very important. You can learn from others; you can sell books to others. Charles McGrew, an editor and publisher, said that internet contacts helps, but it is better to speak to groups and make personal contact with people.
- Don't expect your book to sell itself. A sucessful author understands that work just starts once your book is published. You should seek places to sell your book such as clubs, sighings at book stores, and tv interviews.
- Covers are important in selling a book. Several of the speakers mentioned the importance of the cover. This is the first thing that a potential buyer looks at before making a purchase. The cover should grab attention and say to the customer, "Buy me."
- Always follow submission guidelines when submitting a manuscript.
- A good agent will not charge you any money to look at your manuscript. One place to look for agents is the acknowledgement section of books.
