Sharpening the Saw

This term came from Stephen Covey in the 1990s, and it simply means even the best tools need to be sharpened, cleaned, polished, tuned up.

I just got through with the Women in Publishing Summit 2024, and I'm still processing. It was a wild and wonderful ride for my first summit. And it won't be the last.

I'm busy getting caught up on a few things, as I put my life on hold for four days of Zoom meetings.

(That's not for the faint of heart. Be sure you have a SAG wagon, or a well-stocked fridge and pantry of grab-and-go items. Much like academic conferences where panels have 5-10 minute breaks in between them, there is little time to grab a coffee, hit the restroom and make it to the next panel.)

But what a line-up! There were tracks and paths in the conference for those seeking specific info, but there were also opportunities to jump around rooms to sample the vibe.

Nearly ALL THE presenters offered something: a useful handout, an invitation for a phone call or a discount code for services. Some offered up entire books, and one panelist is doing a week-long challenge FOR FREE.

I'm planning a series of blogs after I digest the nearly 50 pages of notes I took. Look soon for info on:

• podcast book tours

• book club outreach

• media kits and promo materials

• trad/hybrid/self publishing pros and cons
  

Of course, I'll wrap all of these posts in stories for your delight and edification. Stay tuned!