Vending Machines and Writer's Conferences
post by Michelle Griep
Writers struggle with all kinds of things, so if you're an inventor on the lookout for the next great selling gadget, have I got an idea for you. Why not invent a writerly vending machine? Here are some ideas for what it could vend . . .
- Plots
- Character sketches
- Chocolate
- Submission guidelines and contact information
- Fill-in-the-blank synopses forms
- Chocolate
- Best-selling back cover copy
But really, what every writer wants is just a chance to be heard. An opportunity to pitch an idea. Editors and agents crammed behind the glass, all for the taking with one little coin.
And that, my friends, is what writer's conferences are all about. No, not the dang vending machines. I'm talking about the opportunity to meet up-close-and-personal with an agent or editor. Sure, it will cost you more than a few coins, but trust me . . . it's totally worth it. Even if you get rejected, the experience is valuable. You gain confidence, find out what publishers are looking for, and hopefully make a connection that will last a lifetime.
And that, my friends, is what writer's conferences are all about. No, not the dang vending machines. I'm talking about the opportunity to meet up-close-and-personal with an agent or editor. Sure, it will cost you more than a few coins, but trust me . . . it's totally worth it. Even if you get rejected, the experience is valuable. You gain confidence, find out what publishers are looking for, and hopefully make a connection that will last a lifetime.
So if you can swing it financially, find a conference that works into your schedule and go. And if not, then start saving your pennies instead of wasting them on vending machines.