Large
conventions can be overwhelming to those who crave solitude or prefer to deal
with smaller, familiar groups. After a few hours, an author may be tempted to
hide in her room for the remainder of the event. However, when factoring in the
registration fee, the hotel expense and the airfare, most people would prefer
to see more than the inside of their hotel room. There are also the networking
opportunities authors do not want to miss out on.
One of
the best ways to deal with the crowds is to connect with one or two people who
are also travelling by themselves and in need of a friend. At the RWA National
Conference, I have joined small excursions to help ease the nerviness I feel
being around new people. Besides making new connections, I am able to safely
explore unfamiliar cities with a group.
Some
people may feel awkward walking up to others and introducing themselves.
However, when charged with a task, they become a different person, able to bark
out instructions or open up and make others feel at ease. When this is the
case, volunteering may be the ideal solution for a person who would normally
hide in her room.
During
the RT Convention, I helped pack gift bags, worked the registration desk,
volunteered at a signing and helped register authors for the book sale. Each
opportunity gave me a chance to meet new people and help ease some of the
workload for the organizers of the event.
It is not
always necessary to be on display at a conference. When you feel overwhelmed,
it is okay to take a minute or two for yourself.
Schedule
time during the day to return to your room. Once you are alone, put your feet
up and review the events for the remainder of the day. You may also want to
take time to redo your make-up or change into a new outfit as you are more at
ease when you are refreshed and comfortable.
When
attending conferences you want to try to get the most out of the event. However,
make sure to take time out for you.♥
Ursula Renée writes stories set in the early
and mid-twentieth century with a diverse cast who must examine their own
beliefs and challenge society's conventions to reach their happy-for-now. Her
latest novel, BITTER BLUES, is the second book in her Big Band Series and it
explores the challenges an interracial couple faces after saying, “I do,” in
the 1940s. When she is not writing, Ursula enjoys photography, drawing and
stone carving. She is the mother to one son and two cats. Visit her at www.ursularenee.com.
READ ROMANCE
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