To get the most out of the Guild’s fall conference start early. If you plan to meet one on one with an editor, prepare a synopsis or proposal of your book. Practice stating your synopsis so you can describe succinctly what your project is about.

Visit the web sites of the people who may be interested in your work. Study the editorial needs of the publication or publishing house as well as their catalog or magazine. Bring a manuscript, proposal, or query targeted specifically to that editor's publication.

Don't expect an editor to read your entire manuscript during your fifteen minute consultation. It usually only takes a couple of pages for them to get a feel for your style. Have a succinct synopsis prepared both verbally and in writing.

For book proposals, be prepared to answer questions such as: