Questions and answers about the agent/editor sessions

Q. Who are the agents and editors who will be taking sessions at the 2011 DFWcon?

A. We will have a complete list by September, 2010. You can see the full list as it stands right now here: DFWcon Agents/Editors.

Q. How do I make an appointment with an agent/editor?

A. When you register to attend the 2011 DFW Writers’ Conference, you will be placed on a list that will allow you to identify four agents/editors, in the order of your preference, with whom you’d like to meet. When our full roster of agents and editors is announced, we will notify you.

Q. Why do I have to list four agents when I am only interested in seeing one, certain agent?

A. All efforts will be made to schedule you with your first preference; however, the number of appointments is limited, so we cannot guarantee you’ll get an appointment with your first choice. We will attempt to schedule you with your second, third or fourth choice, in that order, depending upon their availability.

Q. What if I only list only one choice?

A. If that agent’s or editor’s schedule is full, you will not receive an appointment. We are an all-volunteer staff of writers, and we will not be able to contact you to arrange an alternative if you do not provide all four choices.

Q. Am I guaranteed an appointment with an agent?

A. The number of appointments is limited, so no guarantee can be made. However, with the number of agents who are attending the 2011 DFW Writers’ Conference, the chances are good you will be slotted with one of your four choices. Register early since appointments are made in the order of registration.

Q. How are the appointments scheduled?

A. Appointments are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Since each agent and editor has agreed to a limited number of appointments, it is important for you to register early.

Q. How long are the appointments?

A. All appointments are 10 minutes. No more time will be allowed.

Q. What if I am unable to describe my book proposal in 10 minutes?

A. You will need to arrange to speak to the agent or editor at some other time during or after the conference. The appointments must stay on schedule since many other writers will be waiting to speak to the agents and editors.

Q. Will there be other opportunities to meet the agents?

A. Yes, there will be many occasions during the conference to speak with the agents and editors; however, nothing beats a face-to-face meeting where you have the agent’s or editor’s full attention.

Q. How will I be notified of my appointment?

A. Emails will be sent prior to the conference. These will list the date and time of your appointment. It is very important that we have a valid email address for you. Preferably, a personal email address, and not a work email.

Q. When will the appointments be held?

A. Agent appointments will be held on Saturday and Sunday.

Q. I need to request a certain date and time for my appointment. How do I do that?

A. We are unable to accommodate special requests. You should plan to attend both days of the conference, since schedule changes may be necessary.

Q. Can I schedule two or more appointments with different agents?

A. No. The number of appointments is limited, and they fill up quickly. Take the time to attend the numerous classes offered by the agents and editors, or the social events, and you may get a chance to interact with them.

Q. I registered early, then changed my mind, and would like to choose a new agent as my first choice. Can I make the change?

A. If the request is received before January 1, 2011, and the agent still has availability, the request will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Q. When should I arrive for my appointment?

A. You should arrive in the waiting area 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Once you arrive, check in with the agent appointment coordinator. If you fail to check in, your appointment could be canceled.

Q. What if I miss my appointment? Can I reschedule?

A. No. If you miss your appointment, you forfeit the time.

Q. This is my first time to pitch a book idea to an agent. How do I prepare?

A. Click here for some helpful hints.

Q. Whom do I contact if I have other questions?

A. Please contact the agent appointment coordinator by email.