Conference Calamities

Here are five things to avoid at your writer's conference:

1. Telling total strangers all about your book. You might be giving away an innovative idea. Save it for a pitch to an editor or publisher.

2. Ridiculing another writer’s idea. Never forget—it’s their baby, not yours.

3. Talking when the speaker is speaking. Take your conversation outside, so as not to ruin everyone else’s enjoyment.

4. Avoiding social opportunities. If you’re shy, find another wallflower to include in your quest to meet new writers, editors and speakers.

5. Drinking too much. This doesn’t look good on anyone. Save it for another celebration.

Question of the week: What’s the biggest mistake you’ve ever made at a writer’s conference?