Having a personal checklist to make sure I have done everything necessary to prepare for an author appearance and that I have everything with me I’ll need that day puts my mind at ease so I can relax and concentrate on giving the best performance I can. Feel free to customize it to fit your particular needs.
Two or three weeks before:
ü Check book inventory and order more if need be. This timing may vary according to your printer’s delivery schedule.
One week before:
ü Call teacher/librarian/organizer to confirm date and time of visit and needs (i.e., projector, screen, table, and microphone if applicable).
ü Ask how they are doing on book orders and get a rough count.
ü Pre-sign books sold with message you inscribed.
ü Ask if they have any concerns or questions.
Day before:
ü Pull copy of letter of agreement and directions from bookings file.
ü Double-check directions and time presentation begins.
ü Plan departure time the following day, allowing enough time for unexpected traffic and any wrong turns (it’s been known to happen!).
ü Pack books and double-check you have all props/materials for the visit.
- · Reading copy of both books
- · Note cards with presentation outline
- · Clicker (remote) to advance slides
- · Measuring tape
- · Money pouch with change
- · Book Tally sheet
- · Business cards
Morning of:
ü Pack laptop in suitcase.
ü Pack car with:
- · Suitcase
- · Cell phone
- · Purse (I’ve forgotten this on occasion!)
- · Printed directions
- · Bottled water
- · Lunch bag with snack for me
ü Make nutritious breakfast.
ü Type directions into GPS.
ü Write down starting mileage, date, and destination into notebook in car.
Returning home:
ü Write down ending mileage in car notebook.
ü Unpack suitcase.
ü Hook-up laptop back up in office.
Day after:
ü Enter speaking fee payment and book order payments into QuickBooks.
ü Write out thank you card to teacher/librarian/organizer. Include a token of appreciation if you wish, and politely ask for a testimonial.
ü Mail thank you card and make deposit at bank.
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