Writers' Conference Season Is Upon Us--Tips For a Successful Agent/Editor Hunt

Why writers' conferences proliferate in the sweltering heat of summer is beyond me, what with global warming and all, but the fact is, conference season is upon us, so get ready.

Conferences are a great way to meet an agent and editor--but remember--meeting with a Publishing Pro may help, but it isn't the make-it-or-break-it of your career.

It's time to spiff up your writing resume, polish your pitches, get your writing house in order and break out the no-fragrance, environmentally sensitive hairspray.

With a few tips and some gumption, you're going to hit the writing conference circuit in style.

First impressions mean a lot.

In the next few days, we'll explore how to make the most of writing conferences, from Super Secret Must Haves to take on your trip, conference etiquette (hint--don't slide your manuscript to your prospective agent under the wall of a bathroom stall) and some acceptable out-of-the box ways to vault your manuscript over the slush pile and onto your Dream Agent's desk.

To get started, check out the first spiff-up-your-manuscript lesson on Suite 101 . . . http://bookpublishing.suite101.com/article.cfm/hook-a-literary-agent-with-one-page