Since this site is all about how to represent yourself [think about / position / carry yourself] in the business it’s worth knowing some of the reference material that others in the business will assume you know about. At the very least, read some of the basic books about your craft. Here are some books…
Often people will ask you what you’re working on and the range of thoughts are something like this: Should I tell them? Will they steal my idea? Do I have my pitch ready? How do I tell them quickly? How do I tell them generally without revealing my genius high concept idea that’s never been…
Mostly, when you’re starting out, the first deal won’t be great, but if the project turns out well, your second deal can change your life! Before all that happens and you’re shopping for a new home… Here’s a few basics: For material written on spec there’s usually two types of deals offered: 1. An option…
Your talent as a writer can only advance your career when it’s noticed. That’s the trick. No one wants to read a writer just because they’re trying to break in. In fact, the way it looks most of the time is that people just want you to go away. Be ok with that. Beyond sending…
More than anything else, Hollywood is a relationship based business. It’s less about ideas and more about the people who can and will execute those ideas. As deals take time to hammer out on paper it’s all about credibility and trust. The higher up you go the more credibility is valued. Great ideas and projects…
– Not being prepared. Research who you’re meeting with and find out as much as possible about what they’ve done recently, who they represent, what they’ve sold, produced etc. Have a goal for each meeting. – Not telling the truth. Don’t stretch the truth about who is interested in you or the extent to which…
Q: When are you ready for representation? A: When they come after you. Q: Why / how do they find you? A: Contests, Labs, Festivals, Fellowships, Referrals. Essentially, when everyone you know who’s read you makes it their personal mission to hook you up, then you’ve got a shot. Q: Why is it bad for…
1. No typos. Double check your grammar. Again, check for typos again. Don’t rely on others to catch your mistakes. 2. If you’re going to use artwork with your pitch, treatment, script, whatever, it should be good quality, high resolution and well formatted. I often see materials that cost several thousand dollars worth of graphic design….
Much has been written about the art of pitching. There are numerous books and programs from Save The Cat to Stephanie Palmer as well as pitch festivals that provide loads of opportunities to refine the art of the pitch. I suggest you investigate them all. The key to a great pitch is simplicity. Find a…
Finding a creative partner, whether it be for writing (or anything else) is easy. The challenge is finding someone who elevates your work. Like the classic Tennis suggestion: Always play with someone better than you. If you’re a writer, it’s best to know what your strengths and weakness are before finding a writing partner, then you’ll…