Convention season is almost upon us. Later this week I'm flying to the Nebulas, and 4th Street and Readercon are right behind it. I'm excited to hang out, be on panels, and to see panels. Conventions are a source of joy, but also a source of anxiety. Over the years I've compiled a few tips on how to handle cons. They could
help us all have a better time when we nerds congregate. Please consider, and thanks
for reading!
Instead of:
interrupting the panelists with what you think are insightful comments...
Try this: ...spend
this time writing down your question so that, when the panel opens to audience interaction,
you have something clear to say and don't ramble. People will remember a succinct
question.
Instead of:
walking ten feet outside the panel room and continuing your conversation in the
middle of the hall, blocking everyone else trying to get to their next destination...
Try this:...invite your chat-buddy to an empty row of seats, or the bar or cafe, or to
walk out of the hall and find a nook elsewhere that won't block traffic. Then
talk to them for as long as you like as everyone else passes.