The Anxious Convention Pro
Being a pro at a convention can feel like the next big step in being recognized for your craft. But what if you’re an anxious, shy sort? How do you move past the anxiety to take that next step? Join these pros as they share their tips for dealing with that annoying little sidekick: anxiety.
Cat Rambo (M), Zamesta Cosplay
So, I missed the first couple of panels Sunday morning that I’d intended to go to. I usually do that at cons. Plan a lot, then miss a lot of what I’d planned. But, that happens. Anyway, the first panel I went to was at noon, and it was for how to do cons when you’re both a professional and an introvert.
How?
So, how do you do it?
Cat goes into “extrovert mode.” It does require some effort, but it is a delightful experience, but she does need recharge after.
Zamesta (I’m not sure if that’s her first name or what, but it’s what her card on the table read) says cosplay, to her, is a form of anxiety relief.
Both agreed that being panelists help. Not only do you have a defined role, but people are more likely to approach you, which makes things easier.
Also, taking time for self helps. Having a room at the hotel helps a lot, so you can get away, at least for a few minutes at a time.
A con buddy helps a lot, too.
I usually go to Norwescon with my cousin, and get a room at the hotel. It makes the whole experience better. We don’t go to all (or even most) of the same panels and events, but we meet up afterward, or between panels, or for meals, and can talk about what we saw/did that day.
Speaking of approaching other pros: Walk up, say hi, if they’re standing. Don’t interrupt them when they’re trying to get somewhere, though.
How to meet people?
- Small events. Workshops, ORCs, anything interactive. Panels aren’t great for meeting people, but knitting how-to’s are.
- In the beforetimes, before the sickness came over the land, I would often go to the hospitality suite and grab a seat at a table, and read or write and talk to people who came in. Had lots of great conversations that way. Usually, I’d bring up a panel I was recently at, or ask people who join me about interesting things they’d seen/heard that day. At a con like Norwescon, there’s always something.
- Cosplay. You’re in costume. Someone else is in costume. You now have something to talk about to break the ice. “I love your…” “How did you do…”
- Volunteer! Norwescon runs on volunteers, it couldn’t happen without them. Join them, they’re a friendly bunch and everyone else will like you, too, for making the con happen.
- Gaming. Sit around a table with 3-5 strangers for 2-4 (or more!) hours, and conversations are gonna come up. And the game itself facilitates talking to each other. It’s a great way to meet people for those of us comfortable in a regulated setting where we know exactly how we fit in.
- Club table booth. Working one, I assume they mean. There are lots of fan clubs and other organizations representing at Norwescon. Consider joining one. A lot of them have meetups or other events throughout the year.