How to make a great first impression at a conference? I was awarded my PhD in November last year and will be giving a paper at my first official academic "débtante ball": the most important conference of its kind (outside of N.A.) for my discipline.

The problem is that I am still suffering from the 'imposter syndrome' and this will likely inhibit me from participating in any small talk. Networking is essential  but I am too embarrassed to divulge my day time job is that a public school teacher. Elitists are unavoidable at these events and trust me, everyone else there is more accomplished than I am. The immediate demands and responsibilities of my profession have really prevented me from publishing. My one saving grace is that I am a very engaging speaker and my topic has popular appeal.

My objectives at the conference are to make my name better known, to highlight the originality of my research, and ultimately catch the attention of a publisher. 

There will be a book fair but I believe its nothing more than kiosks with booksellers. 

How do I maximize my time at the conference? 
How do I make a lasting impression?
How can I overcome my inferiority complex?

Teacher in transition :/
Don't try too hard. You will have plenty of time later to build a solid reputation.

First impressions are way overrated. They will not be the basis of any serious (as in "costs real money") decisions, least of all concerning some complete newbie.

Enjoy the conference, get to know people, mingle. Play your rôle of newcomer who is just joining the club. Check out what is going on in the sidetracks, you might be quite wrong about their importance (or totally right).