Jerusha Bosarge

1. Do arrive on time, no matter how famous you are.

2. Do arrive prepared. Try not to have to ask your hosts for any additional assistance that would cause them inconvenience at the last minute. For example: projectors, dry-erase boards, tables, tablecloths, and other necessary items should be arranged for ahead of time.

3. Do confirm your event with the program coordinator at least once after the initial scheduling.

4. Do send marketing materials to the program coordinator in plenty of time for him/​her to distribute or display them appropriately.

5. Don’t plan a program longer than 45 minutes at a time without a break.

6. Don’t speak too quickly.

7. Don’t speak too softly.

8. Smile! Smile! Smile! No one wants to listen to a grump!

9. When possible, always schedule an “author event” instead of simply an “author reading” or “author signing.” To do this, find a connection between your book and your audience, and use that connection to provide your viewers with a service. Teach them a new method, show them how to do something new, give them new knowledge, or simply entertain them. The possibilities are limitless, and the benefits you will receive in book sales and future event invitations is worth it.

10. Get feedback! You may do this by passing out evaluation forms, inviting audience emails, or simply “asking around” after the event. Use positive feedback to promote future events, and use negative feedback (although if you follow the rules, there may not be any) to improve future events.