When you show up at your author event–be it a book launch, a writing conference, or a trade show–it’s easy to get sucked into the vortex of nervous excitement and lose track of taking care of business. Here’s a checklist of stuff you should do to make your event all it can be. Print it and take it with you.
- Have fun.
- Look sharp and smell good.
- Arrive 30 minutes before the announced starting time.
- Introduce yourself to as much staff as possible.
- Make sure they’re going to introduce you correctly and announce that you’ll be signing books.
- See if there’s anything in the room you can comment on.
- Do a physical/vocal warm-up.
- Rehearse your major points and opening just before you go on.
- Check your zipper and/or buttons.
- Bring a fashion helper, or use the mirror or host (if appropriate) to give you a final once-over.
- Bring a beverage to the podium with you.
- Introduce yourself with a joke, anecdote and/or story.
- Make eye contact.
- Don’t let hair hang in your eyes. Avoid fidgeting, tugging and/or picking.
- Have lots of energy, but don’t be manic.
- Take your time.
- Be intimate, but make sure everyone can hear you.
- Vary volume, pace and intensity.
- Don’t give away the ending.
- Once the Q&A starts, don’t let an audience member go on for more than a minute.
- Cut off the long-winded politely.
- When you’re finished, make sure the audience knows where you will be signing books.
- Try to connect with everyone who has you sign your book.
- Sign stock.
- Thank everyone for having you.
- Get business cards from everyone. It’s a great way to sign up people for your mailing list.
- Have fun.