It’s almost that time of year when a new crop of Library Journal Movers & Shakers is announced. Because they’ve been keeping this secret for months, the 50 or so selected are anxiously waiting for the public announcement. Like Survivor, it’s against the rules to tell anyone you were selected before the big reveal on March 15th.

As a 2009 recipient, here are a few pieces of advice for the Class of 2010.

1. Be prepared to explain “what you did.” Rehearse your elevator speech! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked what I “won” for. Yes I’m an advocate for learning. But try explaining to another advocate for learning specifically what you did that earned you the recognition. In reality it could just be that someone took the time to complete the nomination.
2. Do not send an announcement or personal press release to American Libraries, LIS Wire or any other library news agency. Do send an announcement to your alma mater, hometown newspaper, parents, grandparents, long lost aunts or anyone else who might send you money.
   

   Movers & Shakers Salt & Pepper Shakers

3. Be prepared for lots of “moving and shaking” puns as well as “shaking and moving” puns and really any combination of the two words such as: “Are you moving and shaking today?” or  “Do you prefer that martini shaken or moved?” or the always challenging “How exactly do you catalog moving and shaking?”
4. Be prepared for anything from a big party to nothing at all when the announcement makes its rounds in your organization. It’s a different experience for everyone and even different within the same organization. Read this great article from the October 1, 2008 issue of Library Journal written by Chrystie Hill & Meredith Farkas to see what others have experienced. No matter what happens, take it in stride.
5. Thank the people who nominated you. If you don’t already know who nominated you, it should become clear when you read the article. If you’re still in doubt contact the author or editor who wrote the piece about you.
6. Thank your spouse/partner/cat/dog, your director, your boss, your coworkers. Thank everyone and make each one feel like it’s his or her award too!
7. Take a few days or weeks to privately relish your accomplishment then get back to doing the great work you do that got you nominated. Being named a Library Journal Mover & Shaker is the beginning not the end of great work to come. You’ll find that you have easier access to resources to embark on new projects. Embrace this opportunity.
8. Mark your calendar for September/October when nominations begin for next year’s award. Sitting down to write a nomination for another colleague is a wonderful capstone to the experience.

Most of all cherish the moment, be humble, way to go, and congratulations!

What advice do you have for the new crop of Movers & Shakers?