6 must-know tips for writers to shine in author speed dating events

Published 17 October 2023

Are you gearing up for our upcoming Local Author Expo? With this fantastic opportunity to connect with readers and sharpen your presentation skills, preparation is the key to success. We've asked two distinguished authors, Emeritus Professor of Creative Writing, Gary Crew, and renowned fantasy author Isobelle Carmody, to bring you their invaluable advice to help you prepare.

1. Know Your Genre and Readership

Gary Crew emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between genre and readership. He reminds authors that "Young Adult" is not a genre; it's a readership category. Understanding this distinction will help you tailor your pitch effectively.

2. Confidence is key

Gary's second piece of advice is to have unwavering confidence in your work. Your writing speaks for itself, so don’t apologise for your writing. Believe in the merit of your creation.

3. Keep your plot summary concise

Time is limited, so be concise in your plot summary. Avoid delving into too many details. Leave your audience intrigued and wanting more.

4. Engage your audience

Isobelle Carmody's wisdom revolves around engaging your audience. She suggests putting your ego aside and focusing on captivating readers with your story rather than boasting about your authorial skills.

5. Choose a captivating excerpt

Isobelle recommends picking a compelling paragraph from your work to read during your pitch. Opt for a passage that showcases your writing style and voice, as this can captivate your audience more effectively.

6. Connect with your audience

To connect with your audience, start by asking about the books they've enjoyed and why. This will help you link your writing to their reading preferences and build a rapport.

Isobelle advises not to dwell too much on genre and readership. Let your book speak for itself by comparing it to the books your audience has read and enjoyed.

Bonus tip! Elevator Pitch: A must-have

One critical aspect of your preparation is having a well-crafted "elevator pitch." This succinct one or two-sentence summary should encapsulate the essence of your book and grab your audience's attention right away. Remember, your primary goal is to connect with potential readers.

In the end, the main takeaway is to be authentic and enthusiastic. Be yourself, but make sure you're well-prepared. Share what inspired you to write your book, and let your passion shine through.

Remember, the key to success is preparation and a genuine connection with your audience. By following these tips, you can confidently navigate the Local Authors Expo and leave a lasting impression on potential readers. Good luck, authors!