Adventures in being a Write-In Host

This is the 3rd year I've been a write in host and my 4th year doing NaNoWriMo. Every year, i learn new things. Every year there are new challenges to overcome, new tactics to acquire. Every year, i have to learn how to overcome my weaknesses, or how to shore them up with other people's strengths. It has opened my eyes to a lot of things regardless of whether i want to acknowledge them or not. The following is a list of the advice that i have developed over time to have a great Write In and things i wish i had known before I ever agreed to be a Write In Host. So, after you've posted something on the forum...

1. Be the Leader: Be flexible enough that you can roll with any problems that arise, but not so flimsy that people walk all over you. By coming to your write in, they're expecting you to lead it. So be ready to lead (and have fun with it). Think kindergarden teacher style.
2. Don't take yourself too seriously. Make fun of yourself, other people in the room, the whole nano experience. But don't take things too far. If you accidentally insult someone, sincerely apologize.
3. Have a ton of energy and be encouraging: I spontaneously break into dance and i'm always bouncing around to check on people. Just don't let the Write in get sleepy and don't let people fade from notice. If someone's stuck, take some time to see if you can give them ideas. 
4. Smile as much as you can. New comers are often timid and uncertain. Shaking hands with them and greeting them individually can often break the ice. Look for people hovering around the edges, often times behind you. If you have younger kids in your group, introduce yourself to their parents if they're there. 
5. Have a set of introductory questions: My favorites are:
1. Your name
2. What you do to pay the bills (and or pass the non NaNo-ing time)
3. Your NaNo experiance or lack there of or how they heard about NaNo
4. Your highschool mascott - for something random to get people talking. 
6. Have people helping you: I have always had two helpers. One who's good with technical questions and one that's good with plot questions. That way i can focus on being the cheer leader and being the diplomat for conflicts which will arise, trust me. 
7. HAVE A PLAN: People will show up late, so don't expect to get started on time. Know ahead of time if everyone just wants to put their head down and write (i'm personally not a fan of this method, but whatever works for you). If you're doing Word Wars - know how long each word war will be, and plan for breaks. Know what your prizes will be and how to determine who will win. A lot can get written in short little sprints. 
8. Be polite but firm when there's turbulence: Cram a lot of bodies into a small area, there's bound to be some friction. Get the story from both sides, then find a compromise. Handle any uncomfortable subjects privately with the individual. There is no need to embarrass anyone. 
9. Know your Location: Work with the manager directly for scheduling and resource requirements. Don't just surprise them by showing up and expecting to be accommodated. Also, with a lot of people, a lot of laptops and a lot of power needed, know where your outlets are and bring power strips and extension chords as appropriate. You might want to check with the manager about AC too, cause those laptops put out a ton of heat. Also: 
1. Clean up after yourself. A sure fire way to not be invited back is leaving the place a mess. If you move tables, move them back, clear off any trash etc. 
2. Have a sign or a way for other NaNo people to identify you: The ducks aren't always enough, so make your location clear
10. Be respectful of everyone's individual writing style: This is one that I'm huge on. You can't think "it's my way or the highway" when it comes to writing.  There's no perfect universal formula for writing a good story. Everyone needs to find their method and if it's not your way, it's ok! Also, don't let others make newcomers think one way is superior, cause it might not be the best way for them. Actually, just being respectful in general will get you a long way. 

Other things to think about:

• A group roster (for networking purposes)
• Ducks (or your area's mascot/identifier)
• Identifying Newbies and Veterans
• Plotters vs Pantsers (please don't make it a rivalry)
• Any fund raising you want to do

The best part about the last several years is the experiences. I wouldn't trade the last 4 NaNo's for anything. Even when i was stressed out and thinking about quitting, these write ins kept me going. Just as I love passing on NaNo to people who've never heard about it, now i have advice to give to those who are looking to start out on their own Write Ins. I started with no rules, and only a glimmer of an idea of what to do for a write in. Now we've grown from a small handful of people to almost 30. It's fun, there's lots of laughter and i can't wait for the year to begin.