by Alena Wendall, @alenawendall

Attending a writers’ conference can be quite an investment of your finances and time. Most importantly, it can be a valuable investment toward your dream of being a published author.

Let’s look at a few things you can do to maximize your time at a writers’ conference.

1. Pray. Before you go, pray. While you’re traveling, pray. While you’re at the conference, pray when you get home. Proverbs 3:5&6 is one of my favorite verses. God is in control of your life, and He wants you to succeed in the calling He’s placed in you. Speak the promises He has for you. He will grant you peace when you get nervous. Remember, as you step out in faith and things seem overwhelming, He is faithful. 
2. Plan Ahead. Review the conference schedule and mark the sessions, workshops, and panels that align with your genre, especially the publishing house you are interested in.
3. Clear Objectives. What do you want to accomplish at this conference? Do you want to network with industry experts, pitch your completed manuscript or…? Having clear objectives will help you prioritize your time and make better decisions.
4. Networking. Writing can be a solitary profession. But it doesn’t have to be. You can make great friends at writing conferences! Who else to better understand when a character starts talking to you? 

5. Workshops And Panels. You may be tempted to duck out of these, but I encourage you to attend them. They are very informative. You came for a purpose. Learn all you can from people that are in the know. Ask questions. Be an active participant.
6. Pitches. Be ready with that pitch. Research the network industry leaders attending and be prepared to pitch your story at the right time, professionally.
7. One-On-One Feedback. Take advantage of this opportunity. Use the time to get professional, personalized feedback on your writing. Learn what you can when you can!
8. Take Care of Yourself. If you’re an introvert like me, conferences can be overwhelming. You may have to wake up earlier than normal to do this. But take the time! Take time to recharge. 
9. Follow Up and Implement. Review your class notes and implement the relevant ones to your story. 
10. Smile. It seems strange that I would add this. A smile, a friendly person, or a listening ear can help put someone else at ease. Honestly, I learned this at an early conference. Many people seemed to have it all together but were just as nervous as me. 
11. We don’t have any control over when we get published, but the steps above can help maximize the opportunity attending a conference provides. 

Writing as Alena Wendall, Alena Tauriainen pens contemporary Christian romance novels that always end with a happily ever after. By day, she partners with her lifelong mate Clyde, to run the family HVAC business. She manages both business and family life with four lovable but crazy kids. She is the Retreats Coordinator for My Book Therapy. She is represented by Rachelle Gardner with Books & Such Literary Management. Visit her at alenawendall.com.