Interview with Dr. Jacqualyn F. Green

When did you attend your first BWRC?
I first attended BWRC in Dallas, Texas, in 2006.

How many have you attended?
That was my first experience and it was a very positive one. In fact, I was disappointed that BWRC was not scheduled for 2007!

What is your most memorable BWRC moment?
I had several memorable moments. One was Evelyn Palfrey who addressed “Managing Your Book Signing.” At that point, I had conducted a few book signings and was quite disappointed with the lack of involvement of the bookstores. Her perspective helped me to better understand the roles of the bookstore, author and publisher. Her presentation helped me to clarify my expectations. It was very timely, useful information.

Another key point that struck home came from Vincent Alexandria. He suggested that authors often expect something for nothing. He indicated that we should offer a thank you, small gift, or a book to demonstrate the reciprocity of the relationship. Shortly after the conference, I was invited to speak on a radio show, Relationship Thursday, on our local channel. After I attended, I followed up with a copy of my book and a thank you card to the DJ. Since that time, I’ve been a regular participant on the show. That advice was immediately utilized and paid off!!!

Did you do any writing while attending the conference?
Absolutely! Sometimes, I’m moved at conferences to write a poem or short story about the experience. This conference, however, helped me instead to organize my writing plans. I set writing goals. I identified contact people and/or organizations. I made notes regarding what I needed to do to continue to promote my book. When I returned home, I followed up on a lot of what was identified during the conference. The presentations were quite productive in stimulating my thinking and broadening my perspective.

Has the BWRC helped you to accomplish any writing goals?
Yes! I recently published a Spiritual Resilience Workbook that accompanies my initial work Spiritual Resilience. After listening to the many options presented regarding publishing, I decided to continue in the self-publishing vein. I am working on another book which may be out by next year’s conference!

If you plan to attend the 2008 BWRC, what brings you back?
Yes! I am looking forward to attending the conference. In addition to gaining more pointers regarding book promotions and events, I hope to offer a session at the next BWRC, “Spiritual Resilience for Writers.” The roles that we have can be quite stressful and remaining spiritually centered will be an asset to our persistence. I think it’s important to take a step back and assist the authors in taking care of themselves as they pursue their goals. That’s the therapist in me coming out, as well as my focus on being spiritually centered.

What would you say about BWRC to influence someone who’s thinking about attending?
Actually, I have already encouraged other authors and potential authors to attend. What I tell them is that the conference is appropriate for writers at any stage in their development. The conference addresses those who want to write, individuals who have written one book, as well as those with several books under their belt! The conference appeals to fiction and non-fiction writers. It is also informative for people who are seeking advice about book promoting, publication, and/or legalities involved. I thought this broad-brushed approach was a real drawing card which appealed to a variety of audiences.

Anything else you’d like to add?
I am looking forward to the next gathering! Thank you for the opportunity of reflecting upon this treasured experience.

Website address: www.green-enterprizes.com