An Author's First Book Signing/Presentation

Whether you've scheduled your first book signing/author presentation or are thinking about it, take a deep breathe. You may be feeling stressed out, perhaps overwhelmed. Always remember that the first time is the hardest.

Details

If you've signed up for a book signing and or presentation, make sure you have all the facts. Not knowing all the details can cause confusion and stress. Attending similar events on what you've signed up for will help give you an idea of what to expect. Checking in prior with the event planner can help ensure all details are as you requested.

Your Part

A book signing is pretty much self explaining. If you're presenting, it's a good idea to practice in front of your family and friends and by yourself to refresh your memory and gain confidence. Also recording your presentation on a tape recorder and then playing it back will give you an idea if you need to change your tone. If you're a children's author, having the children become part of the presentation can be fun. You could have the children role play your book.

Being Nervous is Okay

Many authors feel nervous when doing something for the first time. Take a deep breathe and do not allow yourself to think bad thoughts. By thinking negativity, you may have already shot any confidence you previously had. Remember the ones who are attending your event are interested to see you, not there to shoot you down before you even start.

Questions

Often times you will be asked questions about your book. Examples: how you got started, why you wrote what you did? How long did it take you to write your book? Who inspires you? It's a good idea to be ready with answers on common questions. It's a good idea to give yourself a moment to answer if you're unsure. That way there's a chance of less "um" and "uh's."

Contact Information

After your book signing and or presentation it's a good idea to have some form of information where others can reach you. Such as your website address on a flyer and or business card. You might receive sales from others who talked about attending your event. It may also help you set up another event with someone.

Once you're completed your first author presentation, there's nothing to express the feeling you have for accomplishing your first time as an author. You may want to bring gum, mints and water for before, during and after your event. Good luck!