7 Ways to Ensure Your One-on-One Meeting is a Success

By the end of the month I will have attended two conferences (the SCBWI Summer Conference and the Pacific Coast Children's Writers Workshop). I've attended many in the past, and I'm sure I'll attend more in the future. I think one of the most important opportunities at these workshops is also the most nerve wracking--the one-on-one critiques with an editor, agent, or author. Over the years, I've learned some things that have helped me cope. If you have some additional advice please feel free to add it in the comments section.

1. Be prepared to listen. This sounds easy--it isn't. Allow the professionals to give their comments without interruption from you. Even if you feel they've misunderstood something, if you bring it to their attention you're only going to sound defensive and whiny. If you have a question scribble a note to yourself so you won't forget to ask them at the end. You've paid good money for their critique. It would be a shame if you didn't learn anything from it.

2. Even if you think their suggestion is lousy, say, "I'll think about it." The primary reason is you'll sound ungrateful and difficult if you reject their comment without at least considering it. The secondary reason is you might actually realize later they were right.

3. Do some prep work before the meeting. Synthesize your novel into a short pitch (a few sentences at the most), and practice saying it with enthusiasm. If you don't love your story then no one else will either. Think of questions you have about the sample you sent in, and write them down. Nervousness can cause you to forget things, so make sure to bring a notebook with you to the meeting.

4. Have alternative projects ready to pitch. If the meeting goes well, often a professional will ask, "So what else are you working on?" Even if you haven't written the books yet, having ideas to pitch will demonstrate that you're serious about your career as a writer.

5. If you're fortunate enough to have been told who you will be meeting with prior, be sure to read some of the books they represent. Also, do some internet searching and see if they write blogs or if they have been interviewed. You can use some of the information you learn as conversation starters.

6. Take seven breaths. The person on the other side of the desk is as human as you are. And your career is NOT riding on the outcome of this meeting. This is just one avenue to help you get closer to publication. If you take away at least one thing that strengthens your manuscript the meeting was worth it. Don't feel like a failure if the professional isn't enthusiastic over your work. The next person you meet might fall in love with it.

7. If the editor or agent wants to read more of your work be sure to ask about how they want it to be submitted and where it should be sent. Many times, they will tell you something different than what's on their posted submission guidelines. Then when you go home, be sure to follow whatever suggestions they have before sending your manuscript to them.