Panels: A Primer

Participating in a panel discussion at a convention gives you an opportunity to introduce yourself to potential readers. You may even be able to discuss your work, if applicable to the panel's subject. If nothing else it gives you visibility in the speculative fiction world and allows you to share your views and insight with convention attendees.

Panel Participant Tips

• Check the Web site. Conventions often have information on their websites for those who'd like to participate in programming–look for links. If there is no obvious information on volunteering for panels, contact the organizers and ask what their process is. In many cases, organizers will ask potential participants to help come up with panel ideas. Be ready with suggestions.
• Know the score. In general, conventions do not pay panel participants. In some cases, panel participants get a free membership to the convention, or a "free plus one" membership which will allow them to bring a guest. Additionally, participants can usually find beverages, snacks, and a place to rest and recuperate in the con's Green Room.
• Know the ropes. Once you get on a panel, what do you do? Broad Universe member Virginia McMorrow has written an article called "Appearing on a Panel? Rules for the Road," which provides some useful guidelines and good advice on panel etiquette. Download a pdf of the article.

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