How to Make the Most of BookExpo America 2014

BookExpo America (BEA) is currently taking place at the Javits Center in NYC until Saturday, May 31, 2014 . This event is an excellent opportunity to network, learn about the publishing industry, and promote yourself and your self-published book. Here is what you need to know and do to make the most of Book Expo America.

1. Plan ahead

Before attending the event, spend some time planning. Review author sessions and exhibit list to create your own personal schedule. Also, be sure to view the floor plan, so you know exactly where to go. This will help you use your time efficiently.

2. Register online.

BEA offers excellent online resources to help attendees plan their visit to the exhibit. One of these great resources is online registration. During the registration, you can also purchase tickets for special events such as Author Breakfasts and Autographing Passes.

3. Dress appropriately.

Since you will be networking, you will want to look professional, but you will also want to dress comfortably. Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking a lot. Also, dress in layers since you may get warm walking around but be chilly while attending one of the conferences.

4. Pack for survival.

Come equipped with items that will help you enjoy the event. Bring a water bottle and your phone charger. Also, pack a small notebook and pen to jot down ideas and notes.

5. Take a break and enjoy the city.

While in NYC, take a break from the exhibit and enjoy the city. There are plenty of great restaurants and attractions to check out.

I’d love to know, what are your tips for those attending BEA?

ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is the Vice President of Outskirts Press. In addition to her contributions to the Outskirts Press blog at blog.outskirtspress.com, Kelly and a group of talented marketing experts offer book marketing services, support, and products to not only published Outskirts Press authors, but to all authors and professionals who are interested in marketing their books and/or careers. Learn more about Kelly on her blog at http://kellyschuknecht.com.

BookExpo America 2013

Starting Wednesday, May 29 – Saturday, June 1, in NYC, BookExpo America (BEA) will be running three full days of Exhibits and four full days of Conferences and Special Events. BEA is the #1 event in North American publishing and the ideal place for content creators and consumers to discover new books/titles, meet favorite and new authors, learn about trends shaping the book industry, and network with those have a passion for books and reading.

The event  gives you access to:

  • The largest show floor in North America with 1,300+ exhibitors displaying their upcoming titles—in  all formats and every genre, from across the country and around the world.
  • Hundreds  of the latest books, advanced read copies, and galleys  that will be buzzing for the summer and fall seasons.
  • Special events, author stages, and autographing sessions featuring 600+ authors. There’s no  better place to find the next big author.
  • BEA Conference Program featuring fresh sessions where  you’ll learn about the latest trends, developments, and technologies affecting  the book industry.
  • Digital Discovery Zone (D2Z) brought to you by IDPF—get a closer  look at content, devices, applications, and technology by visiting this exhibit  area on the show floor filled with leading digital service providers.

This year’s event also has many other great features such as Sidelines Pavilion  Networking Happy Hour, New Midtown Author Stage, BEA Editors’ Buzz Panels on the BEA Author Stages, and BEA LIVE!

BEA is a great opportunity for self publishing authors to learn more about the industry and network with other professionals. To learn more about the event, visit http://www.bookexpoamerica.com.

I’d love to know, will you be attending BEA this year?

ABOUT KELLY SCHUKNECHT: Kelly Schuknecht is the Vice President of Outskirts Press. In addition to her contributions to the Outskirts Press blog at blog.outskirtspress.com, Kelly and a group of talented marketing experts offer book marketing services, support, and products to not only published Outskirts Press authors, but to all authors and professionals who are interested in marketing their books and/or careers. Learn more about Kelly on her blog at http://kellyschuknecht.com.