FAQs

What is the weather like in March?

In March, the weather in Greer, SC, typically signals the arrival of spring. Average daytime temperatures range from the mid-50s to the low 60s°F (13-17°C), while nighttime temperatures can dip into the low 40s°F (around 5-6°C). Rain is fairly common, with an average of about 4-5 inches throughout the month, so it's a good idea to have an umbrella on hand. Overall, March in Greer is mild, with a mix of sunny and rainy days, making it a pleasant transition into warmer spring weather.

What is a one sheet and how do I make one?

A one sheet is a concise, single-page document used by authors, speakers, and other creatives to market themselves and their projects to agents, publishers, event planners, or potential clients. It serves as a quick snapshot of who you are and what you offer, making it a powerful tool for pitching your book, brand, or services.

Key Elements of a One Sheet:

Headline: A catchy title or tagline that captures attention.
Author Bio: A brief introduction to who you are, your background, and your qualifications.
Book or Project Summary: A succinct description of your book, project, or service, including key points or a hook that draws interest.
Target Audience: Define who your project is for and why it will resonate with them.
Endorsements or Reviews: Include any relevant praise, quotes, or testimonials.
Contact Information: Clear details on how to get in touch with you, including your website and social media.
Visual Elements: Add a professional headshot, book cover image, or branding to make your one sheet visually appealing.

Will send sample to include here.

How to Make One:

Choose a Layout: Keep it clean and organized. Use design tools like Canva, Microsoft Word, or Adobe InDesign for a professional look.
Prioritize Key Information: Only include essential details—remember, it’s a one-page snapshot.
Focus on Visual Appeal: Use a consistent color scheme, font style, and high-quality images to make it stand out.
Proofread: Ensure there are no typos or errors and that everything is clear and concise.

A well-crafted one sheet can make a lasting impression and open doors for networking, book deals, or speaking engagements.

Do I really need a headshot as a writer?

Yes, having a professional headshot as a writer is highly recommended, though not always mandatory. Here's why it can be valuable:

Personal Connection: A headshot helps readers, agents, and publishers connect with you on a more personal level. It puts a face to the name and gives you a sense of presence, even when you're not physically there.
Professionalism: A high-quality headshot adds a layer of professionalism to your author platform, especially when included in your one sheet, website, or social media profiles.
Branding: Your headshot is part of your author brand. A well-chosen image that aligns with your writing style or genre can reinforce your brand image, whether you're writing fiction, non-fiction, or any other genre.
Media and Marketing: If you plan to be featured in interviews, podcasts, or at speaking engagements, a headshot is often requested by media outlets. Having one ready ensures you're prepared for promotional opportunities.

How do I know what editors are looking for?

To know what editors are looking for, it’s essential to do some research and keep yourself informed about current trends and specific preferences in the publishing industry. Here are several ways to gain insight into what editors seek:

1. Study Submission Guidelines

Most editors and publishing houses provide detailed submission guidelines on their websites. These often specify:

Genre preferences (fiction, non-fiction, memoir, etc.)
Word count limits
Themes or topics they are actively seeking
Formatting requirements

2. Follow Publishing Industry Blogs

Many editors share their insights on industry blogs, where they discuss what’s trending, common mistakes, or what they’re excited about. Examples include:

Publisher’s Weekly
The Write Life
Jane Friedman’s Blog
Steve Laube’s Agency Blog

3. Attend Writers’ Conferences

Conferences like the Carolina Christian Writers Conference often feature editors as keynote speakers or workshop leaders. This gives you direct access to hear what they’re seeking and what trends they’re seeing in the market.

4. Follow Editors on Social Media

Many editors are active on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn, where they often post about what submissions they’re looking for or provide updates on industry trends. Following them gives you real-time insights into their needs.

5. Read Industry Newsletters

Sign up for newsletters from publishing houses or literary agents. These often provide information on new calls for submissions or specific projects they are focusing on.

6. Analyze What’s Being Published

Read books, articles, or stories recently published by the editor or their publishing house. By analyzing what they’ve chosen to publish, you can identify patterns in the types of stories, styles, or voices they prefer.

7. Get Feedback from an Agent

Literary agents often know what editors want, and they can provide valuable insight into how to tailor your work to meet those expectations. If you're working with an agent, ask for their input.

8. Join Writing Groups

Writing communities, whether in-person or online, often share information about editor preferences. Fellow writers may have experience working with particular editors and can provide valuable tips.

By combining these strategies, you’ll stay informed about what editors are looking for and can craft submissions that match their needs.

Do I need to bring a book proposal?

Bringing a book proposal to a writers' conference can be highly beneficial, but whether you need to bring one depends on your goals and where you are in the writing process. Here are some factors to consider:

When You Should Bring a Book Proposal:

If You’re Pitching Non-Fiction: For non-fiction writers, a book proposal is often more important than a completed manuscript. Agents and editors will want to see your proposal to evaluate your concept, marketability, and platform. Having one ready at a conference allows you to make the most of one-on-one appointments with agents and publishers.
If You’re Meeting Agents or Publishers: If you’ve scheduled one-on-one appointments at the conference, bringing a polished proposal shows you’re serious and prepared. Even if they don’t ask to see the full proposal right away, they may request it after your pitch.
If You Have a Nearly Completed Manuscript: If your manuscript is almost ready, a proposal can be a helpful tool to showcase your work, especially for fiction writers who want to present their project professionally.

When You May Not Need a Book Proposal:

If You’re Still Developing Your Idea: If you’re early in the writing process and still refining your concept, you may not need a full proposal. Instead, focus on getting feedback, attending workshops, and networking.
If You’re a Fiction Writer Without an Agent: For fiction, agents and publishers generally prefer a completed manuscript rather than a proposal. However, having a short synopsis or query letter may still be helpful to explain your project if you're asked about it.

Alternatives to a Full Proposal:

Pitch or Query Letter: Even if you don’t have a full proposal ready, bringing a one-page pitch or query letter that summarizes your project and your background can be a great alternative. This allows you to introduce your project briefly and provide contact information for follow-up.
One-Sheet: As mentioned earlier, a one-sheet is another concise way to present your book, including the main concept, target audience, and contact details.

If you’re pitching a non-fiction book or meeting with agents and editors, it’s a good idea to bring a book proposal. However, if you're still developing your project or are focused on fiction, other materials like a one-sheet, query letter, or even a strong elevator pitch can suffice.

What are important things to bring to a writers conference?

Bringing the right materials and tools to a writers' conference can help you make the most of your experience. Here’s a list of important things to bring:

1. Business Cards

Easy to hand out and a professional way to leave your contact information with other writers, agents, editors, and industry professionals. Be sure to include your name, email, phone number, website, and social media handles. Don’t be shy about handing them out.

2. One-Sheet

A concise, one-page summary of your book or writing project. It should include your bio, book summary, target audience, and contact details. This is especially helpful if you are pitching a project or meeting with agents and publishers.

3. Notebook and Pens

You’ll want to take notes during workshops, keynotes, and one-on-one meetings. A notebook is often more convenient and reliable than relying on digital devices during conferences. Usually it works well to have a fresh, clean notebook and to record your questions for each publisher or anyone you plan to meet with even before you go.

4. Book Proposal or Manuscript (if Applicable)

If you're pitching a non-fiction book, bring several copies of your book proposal. If you're pitching fiction and have completed the manuscript, bring a few chapters and be ready to email the full manuscript upon request. Don’t carry too many, as most agents and editors will ask you to send documents digitally later.

5. Pitch or Query Letter

Even if you don’t have a full proposal or manuscript ready, having a one-page pitch or query letter summarizing your project can be useful. It serves as a quick way to explain your work during networking sessions or appointments.

6. Laptop or Tablet (Optional)

Some conferences allow time for writing, and having a device handy can help if you want to capture ideas or revise your work. However, ensure that your device is charged and doesn’t distract you from networking.

7. Comfortable Clothing and Business Attire

Dress in comfortable but professional clothing. Conferences often involve long days, so opt for layers to accommodate temperature changes in the venue. If you’re meeting with agents or publishers, business casual is usually appropriate.

8. Snacks

If you have specific dietary needs or tend to need a snack between meals, a light snack is not a bad idea to bring along.

9. Folder or Tote Bag

A folder or bag will help you stay organized by carrying your business cards, handouts, and any materials you collect from workshops or purchases from the book store.

10. Confidence and a Positive Attitude

Networking can be intimidating, but confidence and a friendly attitude go a long way. Be prepared to introduce yourself, ask questions, and engage in conversations with other writers and professionals.

Bonus: Backup Materials

Bring a digital backup of important documents (like your proposal, one-sheet, or manuscript) on a flash drive or have them easily accessible via cloud storage in case someone asks for a digital version.

Being prepared with these items will help you feel organized, confident, and ready to make the most of your experience at the conference!

I am not faculty or staff. Can I bring books for the bookstore?

Absolutely! We do ask that non-faculty limit the number of titles they bring to four. Please email info@carolinachristianwritersconference.com for a bookstore inventory sheet. This will need to be filled out and returned prior to March 1st, 2025 in order to secure space for your books in the bookstore layout.

Each book will need to be priced with a removable sticker placed on the front of the book with the price rounded to the nearest dollar.

The conference bookstore fee is 20% of the price stickered for all books sold.

Any questions regarding the bookstore can be directed to info@carolinachristianwritersconference.com.

Why did we change locations?

For 13 years we enjoyed being at First Baptist Spartanburg, Over the last year, First Baptist Spartanburg has gone through many changes, including the majority of their staff. Along with these changes came the need for us to change locations.

If this is my first year coming to the conference, should I meet with people one-on-one?

Yes! This is an opportunity for you to begin to network within the writing and publishing industry. The more people you get to know, the more advice you will be able to get as your relationship develops.

When you have your meeting be sure to listen and not just wait to talk. Be prepared to share your ideas. The more developed your ideas are the better advice they will be able to give you.

Be open to suggestions from the professional you are talking to. Remember, they have the experience to help guide you to make your ideas more marketable, and in turn, more successful.

What should I talk about in my one-on-one?

Be prepared to listen and take notes. If you have ideas for a book or article, be sure to share that and take the advice they have. Remember, you are building relationships and these professionals have years of experience. They offer advice to help you be more successful.

You always say “do your homework before you come.”

We have homework? What does that mean?

Study the faculty. Know who is going to be there and what publishing houses they represent. Go to their websites. See what they have published recently and try to identify any gaps. This requires that you know some of the trends in publishing. Bookstore shelves and online retailers are a good place to look for current trends.

I have special dietary requirements. Is there an option of different foods?
Our registration form has an area for you to indicate your special dietary needs. Any specific questions can be sent to info@carolinachristianwritersconference.com.