As part of Write by the Rails, a chapter of the Virginia Writers Club, I’ve had a chance to meet a lot of great local authors. I’ve also been allowed to participate in a few events for writers, including panel discussions, workshops, and training on social media. The club even pushed me to do my first few public readings of my work.
Here are some lessons learned, and some tips for writers who may be interested in doing a public reading.
1. Show up early – In most cases, you have no control over getting to the event and setting it up. Allow yourself time to navigate traffic (both vehicular and personal), figure out parking in advance, and get a feel for the venue. If you can visit it in advance, you’ll have a better idea of the logistics of the room and how long it takes to get in and out. If you’ve got a registration table, allow time for setup, and make sure you’ve got a person manning the table for registration and book sales, or adequate room for you to do it yourself.
2. You are your brand – Not to make you any more nervous, but this is a public engagement. You’re going to want to dress in a manner consistent with your brand. Do you have a professional headshot for your book jacket? You likely had a look in mind during that shoot. You should maintain that brand when you’re making public appearances. Whenever I see Tee Morris speak in public, he’s got his steampunk gear on or nearby. Robert Scott is always in a dress shirt with his sleeves rolled up, like he’s going to engineer the next brilliant i-device for Apple. Know your brand and dress for success.
3. Have books to sell – Be certain you have whatever marketing materials you’re going to hand out. Make it easy for listeners to become readers. Have business cards. Provide a method for potential readers to sign-up for more information (email list, Facebook group, whatever you use.) If you have print books, have them on hand for sale. As with registration, make sure that there is time and space provided for you or a representative to handle the transactions. (Note: this includes receipts for anyone buying the book.)
4. Promote. Promote. Promote! – Be certain you do your part to spread the word in advance of the reading. Get the word out to your readers (through whatever channel you use to promote your books now). Also, do your part to ensure that the event is listed in as many local venues as possible. Is there a physical flier that you can drop off at the venue in advance? How about a digital version you can post up or provide to local news and community websites? These are all great opportunities to drive traffic. In many cases, you’re not the only reader. This is a chance to cross-promote with other authors. Give them exposure to your readers and they’ll give you exposure to their reader base.
During the event, promote it even more! Take and share pictures through social media. If there is coverage from local media, be engaging. Never turn down the chance to shake hands, meet new people, and potentially develop new fans.
5. Have your material ready – choose what you’re going to read in advance and have a copy in a form that is available and easy. If you’re reading something that’s only on your phone, be prepared. What happens if there’s no internet or signal? If you’re reading from paper, make sure it’s not going to blow away. Have your scene chosen, and practice it before the event. That will help you be more confident with your presentation, and the audience will be able to focus on the material instead of how you’re delivering it.
A few of our local authors will be reading this Friday, August 1st at The Things I Love (9084 Center St, Manassas, VA). The event runs from 5-9pm with readings beginning at 7pm. Light fare and drinks will be provided and there will be books on hand to purchase. Come out and celebrate with us!
Experienced authors, what have I missed? What are some tips you would offer those giving their first public reading?
All the best,
nK
