When most readers think of authors, they imagine an introvert that rarely leaves their house and drinks way too much coffee. Likewise, when most new authors think of Conventions, they assume they are only for the big names and readers. But conventions and conferences are a great place to socialize with readers and other authors for any writer. Even if you haven’t yet hit the publish button on your first book, attending a few events throughout the year can be beneficial to your career as an author.

Conferences and Conventions offer the networking needed to help you grow as a writer, and get your work in front of the right people. There are do’s and don’t at both but no matter if you attend as a spectator or a speaker they are a worthy investment.

After Party / Hotel Lounge / Local Bar
- Do – Attend these functions while you are there. You will find that most authors / agents / etc will be frequenting these places and are happy to chat with fellow authors and readers.
- Don’t – Get drunk! While everyone has a drink while they are there, make sure you know your limit and when to switch to water. It can leave a lasting bad impression if you are the person vomiting on the sidewalk or being a loud drunk person. Plus in this social media age you don’t want to be going viral before your book does for something not so pleasant you did.
Bring Business Cards
- Do – Create a professional card to have at hand while at any event. Make sure it has your contact information on and off line, and a photo of yourself or your latest work. These events are packed full of potential, you will want to remember to connect with people you meet once home, likewise others will want a reminder of you.
- Don’t – Bring anything less than a professionally printed business card. No manuscripts, pamphlets or flyers. The business card is more than enough. When handing them out never force them on anyone, if you are giving them to every Tom, Dick and Harry you meet the majority of them will end up in the trash. Chat with someone on a human level ask for theirs and offer yours if they want it.
Make the most of the event
- Do – Create a schedule for yourself of must attend speakings, signings, etc before you get there. You are paying money for this event, make sure you get the most out of it. Engage in conversations with other participants, be as involved as possible while you are there. The information you can take back from any convention or conference will be well worth it. Make friends, acquaintances, business connections and follow up on them once you are home. The event will be exciting and a lot to take in, so make sure to take notes, and make lists so no connection is forgotten!
- Don’t – Show up and wing it. It may definitely work for some people but as a new author it is better to be prepared.

Here is a great list of more need to knows before going to your first event. Below is a list of known conventions and conferences, if you know of any that aren’t on our list let us know in the comments!