SFWritersU

I downloaded the class and listened to it. I think it was recorded at a previous session of SFWC.

The presentation is approx 38 min long and provides idea on pitching as well as some info on what happens in speed dating.

There is a book too!

It's called PITCHCRAFT! Exciting Agents and Publishers In 25 Words Or Less.  It's in the premium classes for $10.  Looks like it's from Katharine Sands, so may be similar to what we're getting on the 16th.

Thanks Roach, I figured that much LOL.  Open mike isn't supposed to be painful like bad karaoke!  Does anyone know if there is a time limit or what parameters we will have?  It would be nice to have something prepared ahead of time to avoid sounding like "Shy Ronnie!"

Hi Roach - Let me know if you find that Pitch Class, and the name of it. I'd like to look at it too. Thanks!

Have you ever seen "Shy Ronnie" on SNL?  I'm thinking it would be best NOT to be like Shy Ronnie!  --Thanks Alexis and I'll look for a pitch-honing class on the site. 

So, I see there is an open mike opportunity.  Any suggestions on what that should look like?  How long a piece?  What words of wisdom can anyone offer? 

Thank you Alexis! Much appreciated!

I will look on the site for pitch info.  I have my two line summary and synopsis complete.  Each has been edited down to essential action verbs and solid nouns.  But - I can always use more suggestions.

Gary, I'd suggest you look and see if there's a class on "honing your pitch" somewhere on this side, free or premium. A small investment in listening to that class could help you maximize your Speed Dating experience. I have not participated, but I've watched it often, and it looks like things move pretty quickly, so having your message as sharp as possible would be pretty important, I'd think. Smiles, ~ Alexis

This is my first time attending the SFWC.  I am looking forward to the speed dating portion and was wondering if anyone can share their experience from prior years?

How does the speed dating work?  Any tips for preparation? 

Thanks!

I'm hoping to make it.  Not entirely *sure* what I am looking for however :)  Meeting new people, putting faces to those I have only met thru teh intarwebs, possibly finding an agent who suits my madness ;)  Porbably the exact same things as everyone else headed there :D

You know, you learn SO much from just listening to people chat... I'm looking forward to hearing what other people have gone through, what strategies they've tried, what they're thinking about trying next. Personally, I really want to learn about ePublishing because I'm thinking it's probably bearing down upon us all and maybe for a niche person like I think I might be, it might be the best way for me to go?  I'm curious about the entire event. Can't wait to meet everybody.  And with it being -30 degrees in Chicago tomorrow (wind chill), I'll be looking forward to getting out of here!

Me too! I'm looking forward to learning new methods to improve my craft and networking with everyone. I'd really like to meet authors who are interested in sharing critiques, and I'm super excited about Thursday evening's bonus session with Katherine Sands!

I'm excited to meet other people with the same passion and interest. Hooking up with friends made online at SFWU will be great!  I have so much to learn and I'm thrilled to have an opportunity...like a kid in the proverbial candy store.

I'm looking forward to meeting as many SFWU members as possible. We'll have an exhibit table, and I'm hoping you all drop by and introduce yourselves. I've been absolutely buried in catching up with my web clients after building SFWU, but by the conference, most of the pressure will be off, and I'll be so pleased to meet you all and hang out for the weekend with my SFWC family.

I'm looking forward to learning new things about the craft of writing and the business of publishing, plus meeting potential new clients and reconnecting with old friends!