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1/13/03 6:57:59 PM Opening "Chat Log 1/13/03"


Rainlyte: there's room up here on the floor in front of me.. don't be shy :-)
pvogelbacher: hi back
HOST WPLC Lyric: Okay, Rainlyte has requested that we be in protocol tonight
Floydaka: Sounds German
Kathi Smith 116: hi cindy! good to see you again
WriteWithHeart: how are you Janice?
HOST WPLC Lyric: since this is a long lesson
Kathi Smith 116: hi janice!
Rainlyte: ::make me the meanie - go ahead:::
OnlineHost: “Fjm3eyes” has entered the room.
WriteWithHeart: hi Kathy, good to see you too
PHeeren: hi kathy
ClayHandlr: this group can get out of hand without protocol
SarahStNy: good cindy
G1ft0fgabn0t: oh yeah
BrownDvs: It is?
HOST WPLC Dee R: for questions, please type ?....for comments, type ! and wait til you are called...thanks.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Rain couldn't be a meanie if she tried
Rainlyte: just means your having fun Clay
OnlineHost: “CPeete” has entered the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: thanks Donna
BrownDvs: Hello WriteWithHeart. Nice sn
OnlineHost: “Sunan21” has entered the room.
OnlineHost: “Roy Gugat” has entered the room.
ClayHandlr: lol, rain
HOST WPLC Lyric: Donna aka Host wplc Deer will be running the queue
WriteWithHeart: thanks Brown
OnlineHost: “SusanIs” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: so you'll be called in turn as your turn comes up
HOST WPLC Dee R: so, IM me if I miss your ? or !
CPeete: Hey Everybody!
HOST WPLC Lyric: I'd like to introduce Rainlyte
Nsummers882: ok
OnlineHost: “SusanIs” has entered the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: She is also known as Host Wplc Rm Angl in the Writer's Zone
OnlineHost: “Suspensewriter” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: which meets on Wednesday nights
HOST WPLC Lyric: and works on motivating writers in many different ways
OnlineHost: “KD et al” has entered the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: she's had a lot of success in approaching editors and agents in person
HOST WPLC Lyric: and is a fantastic teacher
HOST WPLC Lyric: I'm so very happy she's here
HOST WPLC Lyric: <G>
Rainlyte: :-)
HOST WPLC Lyric: Tonight she'll be talking about how to make a live pitch to an editor or an agent
CPeete: ?
HOST WPLC Lyric: which you might be doing when going to a conference
HOST WPLC Lyric: or over the phone
HOST WPLC Lyric: yes Connie?
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga
CPeete: are we not doing a crit session?
CPeete: did I miss something??
BrownDvs: Next Monday Connie.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Connie, Adam is going next week, we had him submit early just in case there was a foul up
HOST WPLC Lyric: so he was also our standby
HOST WPLC Dee R: Before we start...some house keeping...on process. Rain will first do a presentation, then at certain points...take questions.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Rainlyte is our scheduled guest for tonight
OnlineHost: “PPoppyMe” has entered the room.
CPeete: oh...Okay
OnlineHost: “PPoppyMe” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: good point Donna, thanks for putting me in order
HOST WPLC Dee R: So, please hold your questions until the question section is open...
OnlineHost: “JsmnStrm” has entered the room.
OnlineHost: “ClayHandlr” has left the room.
OnlineHost: “JsmnStrm” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: when you finish your question or comment, please type ga meaning go ahead
HOST WPLC Dee R: ga, Rain...the virtual floor is yours...
HOST WPLC Lyric: and wait for the ga when you're called upon
HOST WPLC Lyric: so heeeeeerrrrrrrssss RAINLYTE
HOST WPLC Lyric: ::::: Applause::::::::
BrownDvs: :::::::::::applause:::::::::
CPeete: {{{{whistle!}}}}}
OnlineHost: “SusanIs” has left the room.
G1ft0fgabn0t: :::clapping:::
HOST WPLC Lyric: The floor is yours Rainlyte
Hillwithit: (stomping feet until bleachers collapse)
OnlineHost: “SusanIs” has entered the room.
OnlineHost: “Roy Gugat” has left the room.
Floydaka: ?
HOST WPLC Lyric: hold questions until the end Floydaka,
Floydaka: OKDOKIE
HOST WPLC Dee R: Floy...we'll wait on questions until end...Rain is doing a presentation first.
pvogelbacher: rainlyte the floor is yours
Floydaka: 10:30
HOST WPLC Lyric: I think Rain is having a wee AOL problem
HOST WPLC Lyric: what is your question Floydaka
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga
HOST WPLC Dee R: maybe having a technical difficulty problem, lol...no wonder Steve Case resigned, lol
BrownDvs: :::::::sneaks in a "Whassup Floyd!"::::::::::::
G1ft0fgabn0t: lol
Floydaka: I was wondering what an asteral plane is
BrownDvs: Steve Case resigned?
CPeete: AOL problems are never "wee"
BrownDvs: lol
SusanIs: Yes, Brown
HOST WPLC Lyric: Floydaka why not IM BrownDvs
HOST WPLC Sushi: all over the news today
HOST WPLC Dee R: yes, as of May
BrownDvs: I did not know this.
OnlineHost: “Rainlyte” has left the room.
SusanIs: New CEO Ted Turner?
HOST WPLC Lyric: BrownDvs = Adam and he'll be glad to fill you in
HOST WPLC Lyric: Rain is signing on again
HOST WPLC Lyric: I think she's frozen
CPeete: yep...Rainlyte got booted
OnlineHost: “Suspensewriter” has entered the room.
BrownDvs: Floyd, the Astral Plane is another name for the spirit world.
HOST WPLC Lyric: don't worry the presentation is well worth our while
HOST WPLC Sushi: must be back East frozen . . . heh. heh
Vladytoe: Don't tell me our speaker got cold feet? Frozen and all that
Floydaka: How bout the resignation of an American
HOST WPLC Lyric: Adam can you do that by IM?
BrownDvs: Sure.
SusanIs: He resigned via Email by the way
OnlineHost: “Rainlyte” has entered the room.
HOST WPLC Sushi: Adam, use Ims for this. Unles Rain does not make it back on board!
HOST WPLC Lyric: rain is here
G1ft0fgabn0t: WB Rain
Floydaka: Busch Beer anyone
HOST WPLC Dee R: wb Rain....we were getting worried...lol
BrownDvs: Got it Paul.
Rainlyte: I'm back
HOST WPLC Lyric: Okay, protocol means chit chat by IM guys, okay?
HOST WPLC Lyric: Rainlyte the floor is yours
Rainlyte: stupid ISP. my boss will hear from me :-)
Floydaka: Yey!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HOST WPLC Dee R: must be a case of AOL laryngitis...
Rainlyte: nope can't balem aol my own isp
Rainlyte: okay..
Rainlyte: we are going to jump right in here.
BrownDvs: wb
HOST WPLC Lyric: Rain could you switch to bold please
CPeete: you go, Girl
Rainlyte: You were told in the opening that this pertains to pitching at a conference.
HOST WPLC Dee R: the floor is yours, Rain...and we are all ears.
OnlineHost: “Sweet silly muse” has left the room.
Rainlyte: My first experience with pitching at a conference was in DC with RWA National
Rainlyte: I got an unexpected slot to pitch to the editor of my choice and was far from ready.
OnlineHost: “TheDuffer” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: I sat in the bar the night before talking with Chris Keesler from Leisure.
OnlineHost: “SusanIs” has left the room.
OnlineHost: “TheDuffer” has left the room.
Rainlyte: his first q to me was 'are you nervous?' and i could honestly answere 'NO'
HOST WPLC Lyric: RWA is Romance Writers of America gang, a very prestigious writer's group
Rainlyte: There is no reason to be nervous for any pitch where ever it is if...
Rainlyte: if you believe in what you have to sell.
Rainlyte: and we're going to help you get there tonight
Rainlyte: Editors/agents first advise to you will be 'don't be nervous'
Rainlyte: Easy for them to say. Have they ever lost sleep or alienated their family
Rainlyte: laboring late into the night over a crucial scene?
Rainlyte: This manuscript is your sweat and blood - why wouldn't you be nervous?
HOST WPLC Lyric: LOL
Rainlyte: You need to think of this 'pitch' as a job interview. Be prepared, know your material, and know the company you are pitching to.
Rainlyte: Keep in mind that at some point in their career, this person sat across from a desk of someone they admired and applied for their
OnlineHost: “SusanIs” has entered the room.
OnlineHost: “JES No Time” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: position. they were nervous.
Rainlyte: Chances are their palms were sweaty and their mouth dry as saw dust.
Rainlyte: Sound familia?
Rainlyte: familiar?
Rainlyte: Just as they sold themselves and their abilities, you will promote yourself and your manuscript.
HOST WPLC Lyric: boy does it, Rain
Rainlyte: You are asking this person to trust your ability to tell a great story and make their deadlines.
Rainlyte: In return, they are asking you to trust them to do what is right for your manuscript and for you.
OnlineHost: “Roy Gugat” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: So how do you prepare yourself for that all-important 3 to 5 minutes/
Rainlyte: Just as with any interview, there are certain steps you must take.
Rainlyte: Know the position you want, learn about the company, dress appropriately, and build your confidence.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Rain, can you please emphasize that 3-5 minutes is all you get, sometimes less?
Rainlyte: Keep inmind that each editor/agent is a different person.
Rainlyte: Absolutely Lyric.
Rainlyte: You're lucky if you get anything above 3 minutes.
Rainlyte: There is no such thing as a text book interview.
Rainlyte: and while no two appointments are alike, the steps are basically the same.
Rainlyte: With me so far? Ready to go into the steps?
Roy Gugat: yes
Rainlyte: STEP 1:
OnlineHost: “Sweet silly muse” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: HAVE THE BOOK DONE
Rainlyte: This is crucial!
Rainlyte: Whether you're asked to submit a partial or a complete (as I was), it had better be finished.
Rainlyte: You can't give a confident pitch if you don't know for sure where your characters are going to take you.
Rainlyte: Know your characters like your own family. Know their goals and thier conflicts.
Rainlyte: Be able to synopsis the story in one hundred words or less.
Rainlyte: That's important.
Rainlyte: This isn't as hard as it sounds. Picture yourself standing in the bookstore reading the flap copy of your book.
Rainlyte: The flap copy is your pitch. You have as much time to capture that editor/agent interest as
Roy Gugat: ?
Rainlyte: the publisher did yours once it was on the stand.
Rainlyte: Not only should the manuscript be finished but also edited, in proper format, and flawless. These things will jump
Rainlyte: out at an editor or agetn, creating an ill first impression.
Rainlyte: Questiosn?
HOST WPLC Dee R: Roy...ga
Floydaka: ?
pvogelbacher: brb
HOST WPLC Dee R: Roy? ask your question, then Floydaka
OnlineHost: “pvogelbacher” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: okay, Floydaka ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: if you are asking a question guys please have it typed and ready to go
HOST WPLC Lyric: okay, then back to Rain, ga
Floydaka: Do you have a publishing Co.?
HOST WPLC Dee R: roy must have the AOL laryngitis...lol
HOST WPLC Lyric: no floyd, Rain is a writer like us
FJGA: ?
Rainlyte: me personally Floy?
Rainlyte: no
HOST WPLC Dee R: he's just told me the room won't let him enter comments.
Rainlyte: I'm a nose to the grindstone writer.
Floydaka: Yep.
HOST WPLC Lyric: unless it's on point, please hold questions till the end
OnlineHost: “pvogelbacher” has entered the room.
Floydaka: Whats your credentials
Rainlyte: perhaps he can im it to one of you and have it posted.
HOST WPLC Lyric: fga? ga
FJGA: How long did it take for you to get published?
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Rainlyte
Rainlyte: I'm still getting there FJ. :-)
HOST WPLC Dee R: I will ask Roy's question for him, after FJGA
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Roy/donna
Kathi Smith 116: someone muzzled roy?
HOST WPLC Dee R: Would you suggest reading lots of flaps to prepare?
Rainlyte: my current ms is with an editor by request as we speak.
SusanIs: ?
HOST WPLC Dee R: ga
Rainlyte: Not necessarily Dee. It's all going to come from knowing your book.
Rainlyte: one more..
Floydaka: Whoa! eeze up, what about credentials
HOST WPLC Dee R: SusanIS...ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: okay, lets get back to the presentation after Susan
SusanIs: Did you submit through agent?
Rainlyte: no Susan.
OnlineHost: “Mod Gonne” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: I'm a self-promoter and don't have a problem talking to people.
Rainlyte: If it should ever come to a point where an agent is needed, I will look that direction.
OnlineHost: “pvogelbacher” has left the room.
Floydaka: I think I had a GA
SusanIs: ? One more short one
Rainlyte: For now I'm able to get to people.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Susan please wait till the end
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Rainlyte with the presentation
Rainlyte: k
Rainlyte: STEP 2:
Rainlyte: KNOW YOUR QUALIFICATIONS
Rainlyte: In the case of fiction, your resume will vary. Do you have firsthand knowledge of the setting of your story?
Rainlyte: Do you have any experience in the issues your heroine is dealing with.
Rainlyte: When writing non-fiction, you should have credentials to cement your information.
Rainlyte: For example..
OnlineHost: “Barrys2go” has entered the room.
OnlineHost: “pvogelbacher” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: if you're writing a book on hiking in Nat'l parks, have you hiked any of the locales discussed?
Floydaka: ?
Rainlyte: Are you familiar with the equipment needed.
HOST WPLC Dee R: Floydaka...hold that question til the next section...thanks
Rainlyte: Do you have publishing credits? Do you teach a class on writing, lead a crit group, have
Rainlyte: a degree in English Lit, or any writing competition awards.
Rainlyte: Anything that lends credibility to you and your ability is important.
Rainlyte: You don't have to be published to have credits to list.
Rainlyte: Anything that shows you are striving to learn your craft is a credit.
Rainlyte: STEP 3:
Rainlyte: KNOW THE HOUSE
Rainlyte: Who's the acquisitions editor? Are they publishing what you write?
Rainlyte: What is their expected word count? How many titles do they release in a month? year?
Rainlyte: Do they accept unsolicited material?
Rainlyte: I was asked to submit while in Denver last summer. Didn't pitch just met the editor and she asked me to send her
Rainlyte: a partial. When I sent it, I made sure that I put in the query that my ms was not
Rainlyte: what she normally published, didn't meet their word count.
Suspensewriter: ?
Rainlyte: She knew that I knew this, read the partial and asked for a complete anyway.
Rainlyte: you just never know. But do your homework and be prepared.
HOST WPLC Dee R: Suspense...please wait until the question and answer period...I will put you on the list to be called
Rainlyte: Keep in mind..
OnlineHost: “Barrys2go” has left the room.
Rainlyte: The best presentation you can give is the one that doesn't waste their time or yours.
Rainlyte: Couple of questions before we move on to the next step?
HOST WPLC Lyric: okay, Who's first Donna
HOST WPLC Dee R: Floydaka is first
HOST WPLC Dee R: than Suspensewriter.
HOST WPLC Dee R: Floy, ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: and I think Susan also had a brief question
HOST WPLC Dee R: sorry...forgive me Susan.
SusanIs: Ok, can't stay much longer
Floydaka: What is our wonderful guest speakers credentials, Please
HOST WPLC Dee R: Susan, Floydaka, than Suspense...go for it...
HOST WPLC Lyric: guys please have your questions typed so we don't have to wait
Suspensewriter: Rain, I assume you are going about this unagented, is that right?
HOST WPLC Lyric: Floyd I'll email them to you
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Suspense
Rainlyte: Thanks Lyric.
Rainlyte: yes Suspense, I am.
SusanIs: I was told NO major publishing house accepts unagented material
Rainlyte: I can talk my way into most anyplace ;-)
SusanIs: Oops, sorry, didn't mean to send yet
Rainlyte: ga
Suspensewriter: I have heard other writers regret that, Rain, is there a good reason for that?
Floydaka: Thanks Ill be looking foward please try while this session is in order
Suspensewriter: GA
Rainlyte: I can't comment on other writers suspense. It really depends on the individual and what they are able to do for their work.
Rainlyte: ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: Susan there is also a difference between unagented
Rainlyte: answering Susan's really quick.
HOST WPLC Lyric: and unsolicited
Rainlyte: the best way to know Susan, is to check the guidelines of the house you are interested in.
HOST WPLC Lyric: a query can get you into a lot of doors, as can a face to face pitch
OnlineHost: “TheClassicQuill” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: and yes Lyric is correct.
SusanIs: They ALL said agented only
HOST WPLC Lyric: okay, back to Rainlyte's presentation. Susan, check your copy of Writer's Market and you'll see that's just not true
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga
Rainlyte: k
Rainlyte: STEP 4
Rainlyte: KNOW THE EDITOR
OnlineHost: “ClayHandlr” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: What is she looking for? Is there a new line being launched in the future?
Rainlyte: Does this editor look for non-traditional stories, prefer humor?
OnlineHost: “SkateTaylor” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: If you're marketing an historical, is there a time period or setting they prefer?
Rainlyte: A couple of personal details are good if they correlate with an aspect of your ms.
Rainlyte: Es: the editor is a proud parent of a new baby - your story involves children. You want the editor to relate to your story
Rainlyte: If you can bring the story alive for the interviewer, there's a good chance they'll see their readers
OnlineHost: “SkateTaylor” has left the room.
Rainlyte: reacting the same way.
Rainlyte: These things are all common knowledge through research and networking.
Rainlyte: Do your homework.
Rainlyte: STEP 5
Rainlyte: KNOW THE AGENT
Rainlyte: How long have they been around?
Rainlyte: who do they represent (now or in the past)
Rainlyte: How many new clients are they looking for?
HOST WPLC Lyric: Rain, can you give some examples of how to find that out -- what you mean by networking, ie RWA chapter meetings?
Rainlyte: which houses do they work with the most?
Rainlyte: sure.
Rainlyte: Networking:
Rainlyte: 'Participating' in these workshop, getting to know other writers who are
Rainlyte: struggling just like you AND with those who are being published.
OnlineHost: “BornToVector” has left the room.
Rainlyte: As much as I like being a 'hermit' of sorts, you can't be afraid to talk to EVERYONE
Rainlyte: in this business. If you want to make steps, there is no room for timidity.
Kathi Smith 116: sure you can...lol
Rainlyte: Attend conferences.. There are several regional as well as the national.
Rainlyte: conferences. Join a crit group or a readers group. Readers groups are great, 'cause you can listen to what the 'reader' has to say about a book.
Floydaka: ? So
Floydaka: Have you been Published
Rainlyte: If there isn't a writers group/crit group near you, look into starting one.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Floyd questions at the end please
HOST WPLC Lyric: we're not taking any questions before then now
Floydaka: Simple Q?
HOST WPLC Lyric: NO FLOD
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Rainlyte
HOST WPLC Dee R: no...please understand that we are following protocol...
Floydaka: Thank You
Rainlyte: finishing with agents here.
Dcudlbug: ?
Rainlyte: References are always a good source, but you do need to do your own follow up.
Rainlyte: often times if you look in the books you read, writers will thank their editors/agents for their help in getting published.
HOST WPLC Lyric: you're on the queue, Dennis
HOST WPLC Dee R: dennis...I will put you on the list for questions at the appropriate time.
Rainlyte: I believe that www.sfa.org/prededitors is still an ongoing site where you can obtain a list of agents and editors who have
Rainlyte: voluntarily taken part in a rough rating system to determine their reputability.
ClayHandlr: SFWA
Rainlyte: STEP 6
Rainlyte: PREPARE YOUR PITCH.
Rainlyte: This is the flap-copy synopsis we talked about earlier.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Science fiction Writers of America is SFWA
Rainlyte: Be prepared to answer any questions the interviewer might ask.
OnlineHost: “Suspensewriter” has left the room.
Rainlyte: Sit (don't stand) infront of a mirror and recite your pitch. Look at your reflection, as you will the interviewer
Rainlyte: (this is not to mean you'll be standing for your interview - but it will help you see your posture better)
Rainlyte: Eye contact is important as it displays your confidence.
Rainlyte: Let the passion for your story come through.
Rainlyte: Pitching to a fellow writer is also great, particularly if they've pitched before. Another writer will understand your nervousness and know what you need to correct.
Rainlyte: If you have step one down, you'll be fine.
Rainlyte: STEP 7
Rainlyte: BUSINESS CARDS
HOST WPLC Lyric: just a clarification, Rain
Rainlyte: These are super important.
Rainlyte: yes Lyric.
HOST WPLC Lyric: the website is sfwa, not sfa, which clay just pointed out
HOST WPLC Lyric: is the snack foods of america site
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga
BrownDvs: lol
Rainlyte: thank you.
Rainlyte: must be a typo in my notes :-)
Rainlyte: though snack food can be very important too. :-)
G1ft0fgabn0t: oh yeah
Floydaka: ?
Rainlyte: okay, the business cards.
BrownDvs: heh heh, can't agrue with that.
Rainlyte: Have 2
OnlineHost: “TheClassicQuill” has left the room.
Rainlyte: Have them prepared before you go to conference. Doing them on your own computer is fine as long as they are neat and separated smoothly.
Rainlyte: Black print on white background is best.
Floydaka: ?
ClayHandlr: !
Rainlyte: Although a graphic is fine, your personal information should be the predominant feature.
HOST WPLC Dee R: Clay, I will put you on the list for comment when we get to that section...thanks..
Rainlyte: The back of the card shoud include:
Rainlyte: Title, target line or theme, and word count.
HOST WPLC Lyric: actually I asked Clay to intervene
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Clay
Rainlyte: this bit of information will be your stepping stone in the white water of other pitchers she has heard.
HOST WPLC Dee R: oh...sorry, Sry
ClayHandlr: the pre-editors section has moved from SWFA.org to www.anotherrealm.com
Rainlyte: Back at the office, this will help distinguish your appointment from all of the others.
HOST WPLC Lyric: thanks for that info, Clay
ClayHandlr: it isn't on SFWA anymore
Rainlyte: thanks Clay
ClayHandlr: yw
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Rain
HOST WPLC Lyric: five minutes and we'll start taking questions
Rainlyte: STEP 8
Rainlyte: DRESS APPROPRIATELY
HOST WPLC Lyric: please type a ? to be put on the queue
Rainlyte: Basic business attire is best. Pants/skir, with a blouse and blazer or a nice dress is perfect (unless you're a man, of course -
OnlineHost: “Cyncity 1” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: in which case dress slacks, nice shirt with or without blazer is fine)
Rainlyte: Navy blue or black is best. Stay away from loud colors.
Rainlyte: Shoes should have a low heel.
OnlineHost: “Vladytoe” has left the room.
OnlineHost: “PHeeren” has left the room.
Rainlyte: no distracting jewelry or perfume. NO gum.
Rainlyte: a breath mint before is fine.
Rainlyte: often these are available at the check in table
HOST WPLC Lyric: probably advised!
Rainlyte: Neat, clean, and tidy is the key
Rainlyte: you're not out to impress with your fashion sense. Dress with CONFIDENCE.
OnlineHost: “Cyncity 1” has left the room.
Rainlyte: (we're nearly through)
Rainlyte: STEP 9
Rainlyte: BE ON TIME
SusanIs: (Like you're boarding a plane_
Rainlyte: About ten to fifteen minutes early is best. It's not unusual for someone to lose their confidence at the last minute
OnlineHost: “JES No Time” has left the room.
Rainlyte: which will move everyone's time slot up. Check in, find a seat, and breath.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Thanks so much Rain, you've given us a lot of great info
HOST WPLC Lyric: From what I see, Dennis is the first on the queue
Rainlyte: I'm sorry we had to cut it short.
pvogelbacher: !
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga with your question Dennis
Rainlyte: stupid isp provider.
Dcudlbug: Any suggestions for a totally novice writer? I have yet to submit my first item for consideration.
HOST WPLC Lyric: I know
HOST WPLC Dee R: it's alot of info..
Rainlyte: are you donfident that your work is good?
OnlineHost: “SPultz” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Dee R: dennis, then PVogelbacher
Dcudlbug: very
Rainlyte: Then you shouldn't have a proble.
Rainlyte: problem
Dcudlbug: thanks
OnlineHost: “JamesESchutte” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: if your work is good, someone will buy it when the time is right.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Please type a ? if you want to be on the queue
Rainlyte: ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: pvogel is next, ga
HOST WPLC Dee R: Pvogelbacher with comment
pvogelbacher: I just wanted to comment on the breathing part
OnlineHost: “FJGA” has left the room.
BrownDvs: ?
Rainlyte: sure Pv go ahead
pvogelbacher: breath and relax as you say the work will sell it self
Rainlyte: :::nodding:::
HOST WPLC Dee R: BrownDvs, ga
pvogelbacher: ga
OnlineHost: “JamesESchutte” has left the room.
ClayHandlr: ?
HOST WPLC Lyric: Adam?
BrownDvs: Do you have any advice as to how long or short a synop should be?
Rainlyte: you'll actually find that in most guidelines Brown.
Rainlyte: there really isn't a set rule of thumb
BrownDvs: Ahhhhh
BrownDvs: I was wondering about that.
OnlineHost: “Mod Gonne” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Sushi: (Barging in for a moment.) We have quite a few visitors this evening. Gabby is greeting, and please email me for info about this group. :-)
Rainlyte: for short/long contemp I strive for a paragraph per chapter
Kathi Smith 116: ?
Rainlyte: doing the entire booku nder 5 pages ga
HOST WPLC Dee R: ClayHandler is next...ga
HOST WPLC Dee R: then, Kathi
ClayHandlr: how hard is it to get the appontment with the editor?
Rainlyte: it isn't Clay
ClayHandlr: reall?
ClayHandlr: ba
ClayHandlr: ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: There are many conferences where you can pay
HOST WPLC Dee R: Kathi, ga
Rainlyte: When you register for the conference, there is usually a form to fill out listing your 1, 2, and 3 choice.
HOST WPLC Lyric: an extra fee of ten to twentyfive dollars to set up a face to face editor
OnlineHost: “Mod Gonne” has entered the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: meeting
Kathi Smith 116: what if you're really, really, really shy? how do you get over it? ga
OnlineHost: “Jackatbrun” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: you have to come from the confidence aspet.
Rainlyte: aspect.
Rainlyte: Lyric if I have 30 sec.
OnlineHost: “Cyncity 1” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: I think this next paragraph will help them
CPeete: Kathi, YOU can't possibly be shy
HOST WPLC Lyric: yes, Rain
Rainlyte: If you follow steps 1-9
BrownDvs: No way in the world....
SusanIs: ?
HOST WPLC Lyric: you have no idea Connie! lol
Kathi Smith 116: don't bet on it, connie...it's different face to face
Kathi Smith 116: ?
Rainlyte: then the only thing you have left to do is ask yourself 'what if?"
Rainlyte: what if you odn't go through with the appointment.
Rainlyte: What if you do't give this your best shot.
Rainlyte: then what?
Rainlyte: Why have you struggled to this point to not give it everything you have!
Floydaka: Der When your published ask what if
Rainlyte: Five years from now you'll bee saying "IF I'd only....
HOST WPLC Dee R: Susan, then Kathi, ga...
Rainlyte: YOu ahve to believe that your ms is the best it can be.
SusanIs: If you can't go to a conference, you're outta luck?
Rainlyte: believe in your ability as a writer to tell a great story effectively.
Rainlyte: YOu believe in your ability to get this far -
OnlineHost: “SarahStNy” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: I just want to interject that you can also corner editors and agents at the bar, in the hallways, in the parking lot, just be courteous at all times
Rainlyte: don't throw it away over a few butterflies...You're doing great!
Rainlyte: ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: susan ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: okay, kathi ga
BrownDvs: ?
SusanIs: If you can't attend conferences, it's agent or bust- I have one tho
Kathi Smith 116: so the business card isn't really about you, it focuses on your ms, right? ga
Rainlyte: ansolutely Kathi
OnlineHost: “Jackatbrun” has left the room.
Kathi Smith 116: (rain, thanks for answer on being shy, great advice)
Rainlyte: you have your important info on the front.
Rainlyte: but you want something on the back that is going to flash at that editor
OnlineHost: “Sweet silly muse” has left the room.
Rainlyte: when she gets back to the office - that will make her rememenr you
Rainlyte: :-)
HOST WPLC Dee R: BrownDVS...ga
G1ft0fgabn0t: ?
OnlineHost: “Jackatbrun” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: not a shy bone in my body Kathi so it's hard for me to answer
HOST WPLC Dee R: browndvs, then gabby
Jackatbrun: !
Floydaka: Not Me:-)
Rainlyte: brown?
BrownDvs: How else can one go about meeting an agent, publisher, or editor without going through the chance encounters or conventions?
OnlineHost: “ClayHandlr” has left the room.
BrownDvs: ga
Rainlyte: querying is about the only way I know of Brown
Rainlyte: unless you have a writer friend who's willing to vouch for you and pass your name over to their editor
Rainlyte: :-)
HOST WPLC Dee R: Gabby is next, then Jackatbrun
BrownDvs: That is a formal way of asking them to look at your ms, yes?
Rainlyte: that's where the networking part comes in realy handy ga
Rainlyte: yes
HOST WPLC Lyric: one question after Jack and we'll wrap this up
OnlineHost: “ClayHandlr” has entered the room.
Rainlyte: LYric..
G1ft0fgabn0t: The two sided business cards, how many should you have printed? Should the back be printed or is handwritten acceptable?
G1ft0fgabn0t: ga
BrownDvs: gq
Rainlyte: I'm willing to stay and finish the presentation for anyone who wishes to also
Rainlyte: G1
HOST WPLC Lyric: terrific
ClayHandlr: use your computer, gabby
G1ft0fgabn0t: that's an idea...
Rainlyte: for appointment purposes you'll want at least 1 for each appointment you have.
Rainlyte: 2 is better.
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Jack
Jackatbrun: The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will. --Vince Lombardi/ga
Rainlyte: and the reason I say that is at the end of the presentation, when you've left the meeting.
Dcudlbug: ?
Rainlyte: if you're asked to submit anything at all, make a notation on the back of another of your busienss cards about the appointment.
Rainlyte: a detail as small as the conference date or a suggestion made by the interviewer
Rainlyte: will do nicely. This is the business card you will attatch to the ms when you mail it.
Rainlyte: ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: ga Dennis
Rainlyte: oh and as ot whether or not it can be hand written.
HOST WPLC Dee R: Dennis is next (and I'm off...Rain, thanks for a good presentation. Sorry I have to leave.)
HOST WPLC Lyric: and then we'll finish the presentation for anyone willing to wait
HOST WPLC Dee R: bye all..
Dcudlbug: Would using a printed label stuck to the back of your card be acceptable to convey the added info?
CPeete: bye Donna
Rainlyte: I would nicely hand print the book info on the back
BrownDvs: Later on Ms. Reed!
Rainlyte: or using the label - another good idea Dc thanks1
CPeete: I'm going off to beddy-bye
Fjm3eyes: bye ee
G1ft0fgabn0t: :)
Fjm3eyes: dee
HOST WPLC Dee R: lol
OnlineHost: “Jackatbrun” has left the room.
OnlineHost: “HOST WPLC Dee R” has left the room.
CPeete: Great presentation! Very informative
HOST WPLC Lyric: lets' give our speaker Rain a round of Applause
G1ft0fgabn0t: Thank you
HOST WPLC Lyric: and then we'll go back to the presentation
G1ft0fgabn0t: :::applause:::
CPeete: {{{{{APPLAUSE}}}}}}}
BrownDvs: Agreed!!!!! ::::::::applause::::::::::::
pvogelbacher: ::::::BRAVO:::::::
HOST WPLC Lyric: :::::applause:::::::
Nsummers882: clapping
Dcudlbug: Thank you very much. Great presentation.
HOST WPLC Sushi: Thank You Rain! :-D
HOST WPLC Lyric: thanks for coming Rain!
Kathi Smith 116: thank you, rain, very helpful and informative
ClayHandlr: :::::;;clap, clap, clap::::
Rainlyte: thanks for being patient while my isp played bouncy
Sunan21: found your presentation helpful, thanks
HOST WPLC Lyric: now anyone who wants to go can do so, and the rest of us will finish up
pvogelbacher: Thank You Rain, I really enjoyed your presentation
SusanIs: Have to go, thanks
Rainlyte: I have about 1 page and a 1/2 left if anyone is interested?
CPeete: You all have a good week!
pvogelbacher: dogs need out night all
WriteWithHeart: thank you very much
BrownDvs: You were quite informative Rain. I just have one more q whenever you are available.
HOST WPLC Lyric: yes, I'm interested Rain
OnlineHost: “SusanIs” has left the room.
G1ft0fgabn0t: Please!!!
OnlineHost: “CPeete” has left the room.
OnlineHost: “pvogelbacher” has left the room.
Kathi Smith 116: id' love to hear the rest, rain
HOST WPLC Lyric: at the end if you can wait Brown
OnlineHost: “WriteWithHeart” has left the room.
BrownDvs: Not a problem Sry.
OnlineHost: “Dcudlbug” has left the room.
Rainlyte: We're at the part where we are waiting for our turn.
Rainlyte: If you're called into the room before the previous appointment is through,
Rainlyte: stand quietly to the side until you are signaled.
Rainlyte: At that time, approach the table, extend your hand, smile, and thank them (by name)
Rainlyte: for setting aside this time for you.
Rainlyte: This isn't brown-nosing - it's basic etiquette.
HOST WPLC Lyric: rain, please make them aware that there could be a cancelation before you and thus it's good to be early for that reason too
Rainlyte: did so in point 9 Lyric.
HOST WPLC Sushi: slip them some green while shaking hands ;-)
HOST WPLC Lyric: sorry, <G>
Rainlyte: chocolate is actually better from what I hear Sushi.
Rainlyte: :-0
BrownDvs: lol
Rainlyte: Aside from this being good etiquette, it actually serves 2 purposes.
BrownDvs: Paul quit!
Rainlyte: it's a great ice breaker
Rainlyte: and puts the meeting in a business atmosphere.
Rainlyte: She is your client as much as you are hers.
Rainlyte: Ask to begin.
Rainlyte: don't just start chattering away. hehehee
Rainlyte: Asking to begin will give her a chance to ask any preliminary questions
Rainlyte: Don't let the questions throw you. they aren't meant to
ClayHandlr: gotta go...thanks, Rain
ClayHandlr: nite all
OnlineHost: “ClayHandlr” has left the room.
Rainlyte: The interviewer is just trying to mak the transision from one appointment to the next
Fjm3eyes: bye Clay
Rainlyte: Tell your story.
HOST WPLC Lyric: It also give her/him a chance to finish thinking about the last person and concentrate on you
BrownDvs: Take care Mary Lynn
Rainlyte: You've rehearsed this flap until you can say it in your sleep.
Rainlyte: Let your characters take over, as we know they can.
Rainlyte: The passion for your story should come through naturally.
Rainlyte: Once you are through, the interviewer will ask questions.
Rainlyte: Relax. for her to gain a better understanding of where, it at all, their house can fit your story into their line
Rainlyte: ( or in the case of an agent - where they might best offer it)
Rainlyte: these questions are important.
Rainlyte: Answer them with the same confidence - following their lead.
Rainlyte: When the meeting is concluded, thank the interviewer agian, exchange business cards
Rainlyte: and shake hands
Rainlyte: YOu've just breezed through 5 minutes or less. :-)
Rainlyte: Good job!
HOST WPLC Sushi: whew!
Rainlyte: If you're asked to submit either a partial or a complete, congratulations!
Rainlyte: Plan to mail the requested ms when you get home.
Rainlyte: remember to jot that info on the business card so you can attatch it.
Rainlyte: Should your story not be what they're looking for, don't despair.
Rainlyte: Take a moment to do some investigating. Ask what they will be looking for
Rainlyte: over the next 6-8 months. In either case, you'll come out of the interview a winner.
Rainlyte: ga
HOST WPLC Lyric: just so you know, the one interview isn't the only person you should be speaking to
HOST WPLC Lyric: there will be editors as honored guest
HOST WPLC Lyric: as speakers
HOST WPLC Lyric: incognito in the hallways
Rainlyte: dont' forget the hospitality suites.
HOST WPLC Lyric: read the names in writers market and look at name tags
HOST WPLC Lyric: yes, excellent place
HOST WPLC Lyric: net work with people, stick out your hand
Rainlyte: I am working on a ms now that didn't even have a grain of premis when I met the editor
HOST WPLC Sushi: Rain, you attracted a record audience this evening! :-)
HOST WPLC Lyric: at one conference, I had one apt , but gave my pitch 7 times
Rainlyte: she said - if that's what you like to read, do me a partial and send it to me.
HOST WPLC Lyric: with four requests for MS, you guys can do that too
Rainlyte: We'll see if we can work together.
Rainlyte: I didn't pitch!
Rainlyte: good point Lyric
HOST WPLC Sushi: More than 30 attendees. This has not been seen since the time we hosted Tom Clancy, years ago.
Rainlyte: :::blushing::::
HOST WPLC Lyric: thanks so much for coming Rain!
HOST WPLC Lyric: we all learned an awful lot
Rainlyte: sorry it went over.
Rainlyte: I"m glad.
HOST WPLC Lyric: thanks for staying
Rainlyte: not a problem
HOST WPLC Lyric: any last questions?
Rainlyte: this workshop does tend to run over anyway. My boss just compounded the challenge :-)
Floydaka: Puke what will happen if you ever get Published
HOST WPLC Lyric: if not ::::: clapping:::::: thanks for coming Rain
G1ft0fgabn0t: Thank you for the wonderful session.
KD et al: Yes, Thank you!
Rainlyte: have a great week everyone.
Nsummers882: thank you rain, a lot like normal corp. amer. etiquette and I love you points, can we get a copy of this log
HOST WPLC Sushi: we are the last group of the day, so we are not getting into anyone else's time
Rainlyte: and if you're ever in my neck of the woods on Wed. nights I'd love to see you in my workshop
HOST WPLC Lyric: and for those interested
HOST WPLC Lyric: oh, you already beat me to it
HOST WPLC Lyric: the Writer's Zone is an excellent workshop
HOST WPLC Lyric: <G>
G1ft0fgabn0t: what time?
Rainlyte: That's where Lyric and I first met almost 5 years ago.
Rainlyte: 10-1 est
Rainlyte: 10-11 est
Rainlyte: sorry... one button has a challenge
G1ft0fgabn0t: Great :)
HOST WPLC Lyric: no one can motivate you like Rain can! lol
Floydaka: Paul My bro
G1ft0fgabn0t: no problemo
Rainlyte: Writers Retreat
Rainlyte: email HOST WPLC RmAngl if you'd like added to the mailer list
HOST WPLC Lyric: okay, thanks for coming guys, see you next week
OnlineHost: “Lojonw” has entered the room.
OnlineHost: “Sunan21” has left the room.
Rainlyte: and i don't even use a whip ;-)
Hillwithit: Rainlyte - thank you very much for all this time and consideration for us.
HOST WPLC Lyric: and if you haven't finished your critique for Adam/ Browndvs, please do so before Monday
Rainlyte: hubby has been neglected long enough. nite everyone
OnlineHost: “Rainlyte” has left the room.
Hillwithit: bye thanks again!
Nsummers882: good nite
HOST WPLC Lyric: for anyone who's interested, we're a critique group with hopefully a speaker every month
G1ft0fgabn0t: Thank you Lyric for arranging such a wonderful speaker
HOST WPLC Lyric: for info please email Paul, hostwplcsushi
G1ft0fgabn0t: This was a great session
OnlineHost: “Roy Gugat” has left the room.
Nsummers882: thank you everyone, great info !
OnlineHost: “Nsummers882” has left the room.
BrownDvs: Awwwwwww
OnlineHost: “Lojonw” has left the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: ty gabby for that and for greeting tonight
G1ft0fgabn0t: My Pleasure Sry :)
Kathi Smith 116: yes, great job, sry...thank you
BrownDvs: I didn't get to ask my question!!!!! And I waited all this time... ::::::is saddened:::::
OnlineHost: “Omalleywriter” has entered the room.
OnlineHost: “Omalleywriter” has left the room.
G1ft0fgabn0t: maybe Sry can help you Adam. What is it?
OnlineHost: “Omalleywriter” has entered the room.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Adam, I asked for questions and you didn't say anything
HOST WPLC Lyric: I'm sorry
HOST WPLC Lyric: what was it
BrownDvs: ::::::tears fall::::::::
KD et al: lol
HOST WPLC Lyric: you missed my request
G1ft0fgabn0t: don't cry sweetie
HOST WPLC Lyric: see, that's the way to get women, CRY
HOST WPLC Lyric: <G>
BrownDvs: I made a request for a q and you said I had to wait!!! :::::boo hoo:::::::::::
HOST WPLC Lyric: I'm sorry
G1ft0fgabn0t: lololol
G1ft0fgabn0t: get used to it bub
G1ft0fgabn0t: that's women!!!
HOST WPLC Lyric: adam what was the question?
BrownDvs: Don't I know it. OY!!
G1ft0fgabn0t: lol
HOST WPLC Lyric: see, he said he's no longer Christian, that sounds very Jewish to me
HOST WPLC Lyric: how about you Gabby?
G1ft0fgabn0t: tee hee
HOST WPLC Lyric: <G>
BrownDvs: Well I was wondering what she meant by notes on the back of the cards. What notes? What the person said? What the address of the place is? What?
G1ft0fgabn0t: I'm a good/bad influence on y'all ;)
HOST WPLC Lyric: what she meant was a quick reference to remind
BrownDvs: lol Now where did that come from Sry?
HOST WPLC Lyric: the editor that they really saw you
BrownDvs: Ohhhhhhh, okay
HOST WPLC Lyric: to jog their memory
HOST WPLC Lyric: so they know you are legit when you say requested material
HOST WPLC Lyric: and they can picture your face
HOST WPLC Sushi: time for me to run
HOST WPLC Lyric: bye Paul
HOST WPLC Sushi: thaks, all -- great session! :-)
G1ft0fgabn0t: G'nite Paul
BrownDvs: I left Christianity because of the Christians in my life, chiefly my father. Long story.
OnlineHost: “Cyncity 1” has left the room.
Floydaka: Seee Yaaaaaaaaaaa Room
Fjm3eyes: bye Pau
BrownDvs: Goodnight Paul. Take good care.
G1ft0fgabn0t: niters floyd
BrownDvs: Later on Floyd.
Fjm3eyes: bye Floyd
Kathi Smith 116: well, i'm off. see you all next week
OnlineHost: “Kathi Smith 116” has left the room.
BrownDvs: See ya 'round Kathi
HOST WPLC Lyric: bye Floyd
G1ft0fgabn0t: whew
HOST WPLC Lyric: actually it was the oy comment, Adam
OnlineHost: “Floydaka” has left the room.
Fjm3eyes: bye kathi
BrownDvs: By the way Sry, I consider myself more New Age now, thank you. lol
HOST WPLC Lyric: all you need to add is the vey, as in oy vey?
G1ft0fgabn0t: lolol
BrownDvs: Yes, I say that sometimes. Oy vey!!
Mod Gonne: Oy vey is mir.
BrownDvs: I heard that once and just kept using it like some damn kid with a bad habit. heh heh
G1ft0fgabn0t: rofl
Mod Gonne: that's a bt of dramatic overstatement.
BrownDvs: lol
OnlineHost: “Pandora574” has entered the room.
G1ft0fgabn0t: it's addictive Adam
G1ft0fgabn0t: that's why you hear it so much
Mod Gonne: Yiddish is like that.
G1ft0fgabn0t: sure is
BrownDvs: Oy vey!! Won't get any argument here!
OnlineHost: “Pandora574” has left the room.
Mod Gonne: that's why people are "mavens" when they're in the know.
HOST WPLC Lyric: or shmucks when they're not
BrownDvs: I liken it to the accent I sometimes hear on some Jews.
KD et al: mavens?
BrownDvs: Ma shugana shugana!
G1ft0fgabn0t: you must mean the ultraorthodox Adam
Mod Gonne: A maven....come from the word "mavin"
BrownDvs: If that's what you call em.
G1ft0fgabn0t: the rest of us speak very clearly thank you
BrownDvs: Oh sorry Gabby, didn't know you were Jewish.
Mod Gonne: which comes from the Hebrew mevinah- to understand
G1ft0fgabn0t: and some of them would surprise you too
G1ft0fgabn0t: You didn't?
BrownDvs: No
G1ft0fgabn0t: what planet are you living on?
G1ft0fgabn0t: tee hee
OnlineHost: “Barrys2go” has entered the room.
BrownDvs: You don't sound like it. lol
G1ft0fgabn0t: that's because you have a preconceived notion of what a Jew sounds like
G1ft0fgabn0t: never assume my friend ;)
OnlineHost: “Hillwithit” has left the room.
BrownDvs: Seriously though what I was referring to was that SOME Jews I've heard sound like that, not all.
BrownDvs: I would never say that all Jews speak in that fashion when I know they don't.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Adam there are various types of Jews, reform, conservative, and orthodox
KD et al: has this become the anti semitic chat? if so I must leave.
G1ft0fgabn0t: any more than I would say all African Americans speak Ebonics
HOST WPLC Lyric: and there are subsets under each of those
BrownDvs: Some would say Jews don't get online but I know one named Gabby, so that just CAN'T be true!! lol
HOST WPLC Lyric: actually it's become the semitic chat, KD. lol
BrownDvs: lol KD
G1ft0fgabn0t: there you go Adam :)
G1ft0fgabn0t: lolol
KD et al: ah no it is the anti all ethnicitys chat I see.
KD et al: Well, have a nice night all!
OnlineHost: “KD et al” has left the room.
G1ft0fgabn0t: niters kd
BrownDvs: Ahhhhh but you see Gabby you and I differ in a very important way.
HOST WPLC Sushi: see you! :-)
G1ft0fgabn0t: I should hope so
BrownDvs: I have not known Jews to discriminate against other Jews.
HOST WPLC Lyric: Actually, Ash is the only Jewish Irish clan woman I know
HOST WPLC Lyric: <G>
G1ft0fgabn0t: I'm much cuter than you are :)
BrownDvs: I thought you were already gone Paul?
BrownDvs: lol Yes, that too.
G1ft0fgabn0t: lol

1/13/03 8:32:23 PM Closing "Chat Log 1/13/03"

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