Freelancers Benefit from Book Reading and Signing Events

As freelance writers we spend a lot of our time searching for potential markets, for promotional and networking opportunities. We are interested in books and consider our visits to different bookstores field trips or research wanderings. Most of the bookstores have flyers with their monthly scheduled events.

Sometimes we can mix business with pleasure... and attend various events at bookstores in our area, for example book reading and signing events, even if we don't recognize the author's name. So, how can we benefit from such an event?

Book readings and signings help authors promote and sell their books-that's evident- but they can also help the writers in the audience, especially those who are still striving to make themselves known.

OK, so you decide to attend a book reading and signing, even if you don't recognize the author's name. It's for the best because these authors have to actually read from their works in order to attract potential buyers... You'll have to do the same while on your way to the best-seller's list.

Here are a few words of advice from a writer who attends and takes part in her neighborhood "B&N" events...

Try to show up early. Find time to chat with the bookstore manager and exchange business cards if you haven't done it yet-you may want to schedule your own event at that particular bookstore in the future. Maybe even introduce yourself to the author-who usually is already there.

Pay attention during the reading. Questions and answers will follow, together with commentaries and opinions along the storyline or various topics referred to in the book. Don't be shy to ask questions and get yourself noticed (in a positive way.) Authors love questions and comments... a sign the audience is interested in their work.