Conference Pitching Research (for AgentFest!)
So, I’ve been doing some research on how best to prepare for pitching agents during appointments at conferences. Since I have some of these pitch sessions coming up in two days! There are so many different things I’ve read, many conflicting with each other. I’ve decided to take all the information I’ve gathered and go as prepared as possible. It doesn’t hurt to be overprepared. It could hurt to be underprepared.
Some of the preparation includes some materials. These materials will be kept in my backpack, only to be brought out if explicitly requested. No, I’m not carrying around my entire manuscript. No, I don’t plan on handing sample chapters for agents to take home. What I do plan on having, according to an actual agent’s blog, are sample chapters just in case the agent would like to glance over them in the actual appointment. I wouldn’t have done this, but an agent said to do it!
Here’s the preparation list I’ve gathered. A lot of this I got from this post. Thanks to Xdpaul who posted that link in the comments of the last post.
1. Write down the written pitch which should include an introduction, genre, word count, knowledge of agent, one sentence hook and actual pitch.
2. One Sheet. This is much like a query letter. It’s to be handed out if requested. Apparently, this happens sometimes?
3. Business cards. I’ve read that some agents don’t like these, but some do. I have some, and they’ll be going with me.
4. Sample chapters. Not to leave the confines of my backpack unless explicitly asked! Let me repeat to anyone else going to one of these things. Do not hand sample chapters over to agents unless they ask for them. Do not offer. Keep them away. They don’t want to lug around 50 manuscripts. I don’t want to sound bossy. I mean, you can if you want to, but it’s a bad idea!
5. Courage. I’m still working on this one.
Also, I’m having some trouble with the one-sentence hook. I’ve written about 20 versions of it so far, and I don’t like any of them. I’m going to keep working at it and begin my spoken practice of my pitch on a few people. I’ve timed it. I should have time to pitch the book and gather any feedback within the three minute time slot.
More updates to come.
Filed under: agents, conferences, publishing, writing
Wow. This is great…I’m going to steal your list, if you don’t mind.
As for #5, I’m sure you’ll find the courage when you need it.
Oh I get so excited to hear about stuff like this, even when I don’t know the writer! Good luck! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out!
I’m very glad it was so timely. Rachelle Gardner is an agent who bends over backwards to help all writers (not just her clients, or potential clients) better understand the agenting/publishing process.
@Dan: Steal away!
@Heidi: Thanks! I’m so nervous!