How’s everyone doing so far?

My One Sheet just needs to be printed, and I’m still tweaking my proposal. I have yet to order my business cards (I know 3 weeks until conference), and my notebook is about 90% ready to go.

This weekend I finished editing my ACFW critique with the amazing and talented Camy Tang, and I just have to send it off. I had a synopsis edited by her once, and she rocked! She went into so much detail and gave insightful suggestions. If your wondering if your story is working, I suggest you head on over to Story Sensei!

There’s nothing more nerve wracking that “thinking” about sitting down with an editor or agent. Usually I’m a basket case when it comes to something like this. I was my first conference. But don’t fret, it gets easier with practice especially if you learn so simple tips.

Stay Calm: Editors and Agents are just like you! And despite their reputation, they’re really normal people. When I had my first ACFW critique, I convinced myself that the critiquer was a tough person and would just rip my WIP apart. I was pleasantly surprised when he smiled and made me feel at ease. Still I braced myself for the onslaught, and hunkered down in my armor, but I didn’t get pelted like I imagined. In fact, my writing was fairly decent according to him. He just didn’t believe in my story, but gave me some wonderful suggestions on how to improve it.

So the moral of the story. Stop worrying and bring chocolate. I’ve never done it. But I heard it works for some.

Be Professional: Don’t show up to your appoint late, disheveled or under-dressed. Comb your hair, make sure your smile’s not advertising what you had for lunch (a little breath mint couldn’t hurt either), and dress in business clothes. I LOVE going casual, but I save that for after hours.

It’s not too early to plan your attire and ladies, don’t forget the accessories.

Be Thoughtful: Chances are when you sit down in front of an editor or agent, you will be number 27 for that day. They’re bound to be tired, or bored or hungry. (Yes, agents and editors eat just like us). So don’t just jump into your pitch. If you see they’re tired, ask how it’s going for them. Don’t make if forced, just be friendly.

And don’t take more time than is necessary. 15 minutes is all you get. Don’t take a second more. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to poke my head in on someone else’s appointment time because the time’s run over. Not a fun thing to do. So if you’re finished in 10 minutes, consider taking off. I’m sure the agent/editor would appreciate a little down time before the next appointment.

Be Succinct: Don’t make the same mistake I have in the past by rambling on about your story even while the editor is trying to read your one sheet. Less is more. So share your pitch. Let the editor read it and clamp your hand over your mouth (no, not literally.) This is the hardest part for me because I tend to ramble when I get nervous, but if you’re not quiet, then the editor won’t be able to ask questions and will lose interest.

Be Yourself: Publishing is a tough business and it’s helpful if the editor like YOU and your story. So just relax and be yourself.

For more great tips visit Kaye Dacus’s blog.