Conference and Workshop Benefits

By Maritza Martinez Mejia

After attending a small and massive conference in the same week-end, I would love to share some tips with you. Try to attend the next conference and workshop in your area. It’s a great way to learn more, connect with people and get a fresh perspective of writing. Some suggestions to be considered:

1.    

Before register, SELECT carefully: Conferences vary from regional and small ones to national and huge events. Are you preparing for one? Take this in consideration before committing to a conference that doesn’t fit your need. Focus on your convenient goals.

2.     After register, PREPARE watchfully: Revise Conference Schedule, Workshops, Lectures and Locations. It sounds crazy, but taking a conference in the same hotel you are staying or driving to the venue makes a HUGE difference. Conferences are not only a great source to learn, but also an exhausting experience.

3.     Getting ready, BRING: if you are an author be sure to bring business cards, books, stands and any swag (free stuff and giveaways offered by vendors at trade shows to encourage attendees to visit their booth) to promote your books. Swags vary according to your budget like bookmarks, pencils, buttons, or bracelets. You can create your own Postcard using any Paint program.

4.     At the Conference, FOCUS on your Goals: Follow your pre-planned schedule, get on time to lectures and take photos. If you need brakes, take one to enjoy the conference. Drink plenty of water and have snacks in your purse to avoid long lines and save time.

5.     At home, ENJOY your adventure: Send thank you cards or e-mails to appreciate the new friendships you made. Post photos and engage with your audience in Social Media. It’s amazing how the power of technology help you promote your books.

Enjoy your experience!

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Maritza Martinez Mejia a bilingual substitute teacher born in Colombia lives in Florida with her husband and their two teenagers. For her active participation and service to the community, she is the recipient of the "Crystal Apple Award 2006." Maritza published her memoir "Hazel Eyes" (2010), "Vanilla and Chocolate" (2012), "Grandma's Treasure" (2014), and "Poems, Thoughts and More" (2015) by WRB Publishing. She won the FAU Treasure Coast Poetry Contest Spring 2010 and Virtue Christian Book Awards for Best Poetry 2015. Both Bilingual Children Books received a FIVE Stars Seal Review by Reader's Favorite. Maritza obtained a Bachelor's degree in Humanities with a Certificate in Women's Studies from Florida Atlantic University. She graduated from Universidad Mayor de Cundinamarca in Commerce and Foreign Language. She translated into Spanish "Temporary Permanence" by Yashi Nozawa, "The Legend of the Colombian Mermaid" by Janet Balletta, and "Hazel Eyes" as "Ojos Avellana." Maritza writes to inspire others to be better persons. "I write to inspire others to be a better person." Author page: www.amazon.com/-/e/B009DKDXFW  Website: www.luzdelmes.com