The reality of a writer's life is selling books at workshops, festivals, and conferences. Whether this is fun or misery for you is irrelevant. One day you will find yourself sitting at a table, surrounded by your books, waiting for the buyers to arrive. Here are a few tips that gracious mentors have shared with me that have made a difference in my experience:
Bring food. I'm not talking about your lunch, snacks, and beverage. I'm talking about food you will make available to anyone who walks by. I keep a small bowl of wrapped treats on the corner of my table (notice the little bowl on a literary festival display table for Tri-Valley Writers in the picture above - it really doesn't take up much space). Yes, sometimes people just stride by and snag a piece, but sometimes they stop and talk. I figure if grabbing that candy puts them in a better mood for the next author table, I'm building up good karma.
Bring something to work on. I usually have a hand-sewing project with me, but you could bring any small project (whittling, anyone?). Having something to do with my hands keeps me from staring at the crowd, desperately trying to make eye contact. It also attracts people to the table, and often they want to tell me the story of their mother/aunt/grandmother/crazy neighbor who was always doing something with a needle and thread. After I've heard their story, they ask me about mine. It doesn't always lead to a sale, but talking with people is good. It makes your table look more interesting if there is a conversation going on.
Bring a pillow. Folding chairs lose their charm after an hour or so.
Wear comfortable but sturdy shoes. I've yet to staff a table where I could stow all my extra stuff anyplace other than around my feet. Having good foot support is essential for your image as a competent, confident author. No one looks good pitching headlong toward the floor.
Bring several notebooks and pens. I can't tell you the number of times my trusty notebook has disappeared the very moment I need it. I'll often have two or three backups in my purse, and at least one that I can sacrifice so I can write something down for visitors, rip out the page, and let them go on their way.
None of these tips are guaranteed to increase sales, but they will make your time at the table less stressful. Sometimes, that's a really big win.
Luck and wisdom!
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