Bridgid Gallagher, over at Inky Fresh Press, 
asked me to guest post about Writer’s Conferences. Since I met my agent and editor at the PNWA Conference last summer, I told Bridgid I’d be thrilled to share my story.
Attending a writer’s con can be more intimidating than skiing a double-black diamond run. When talking to Lorraine Wilde, a fellow writer last year at a conference, she asked me what was scariest act I could imagine doing. She probably expected me to say something like base jumping, or free climbing El Cap. Instead, I said “stand-up comedy.” I’ve never been very awesome at making other people 
laugh. Not on purpose anyway. Little did I know Lorraine participates in an improv group. Now, this summer at PNWA Lorraine and I are leading a talk on using improv skills in pitching to agents and editors. And guess what I have to do to prepare? Take her improv class.
Writer’s cons can be double-black diamond endeavors even for those that already have a book deal. My post over at Inky Fresh Press offers some tips for getting through it unscathed. Click here to check it out.
I had no idea that you’d be speaking at this year’s PNWA conference! That’s so great, Kim, even if it is terrifying. 🙂 (Surviving scary stuff is supposed to be a good thing, right?)
Thanks for guest blogging on Inky Fresh Press!
Bridgid,
Thanks for having me over at Inky Fresh Press. Yes, I suppose terrifying is good. I always tell myself that when I’m doing something scary. Fear is good. It keeps us alive. I’m sure you’ve told yourself that a time or two while rock climbing. I know I have.
Yes, rock climbing and fear seem to go hand in hand, but I hear you on public speaking being right up there. 🙂
I’m heading over now to check out your post. So exciting that you’ll be speaking at the conference – at that you’re taking an improv class! You are non-stop fun!
We’re going to have so much fun! I’m looking forward to it, and you’re going to be great!
Here’s to that Lorraine!