The Practical

The Deeper Level
What an editor or agent is looking for during an appointment, essentially, is a spark and a connection with the author. So it doesn't really matter if you miss a word of your perfectly-rehearsed pitch. This isn't an oral book report. They are much more concerned with whether or not you are someone they would like to work with (i.e.-did you show up on time, is your one sheet well-written, do you have a positive attitude and demonstrate professionalism, etc.). They also want to see some kind of spark or hook in you or your work that inspires them to want to invest (and buying your book IS an investment for them) in your work. So be enthusiastic when talking about your story. Get them excited without being too cheesy. Wouldn't you want to see the same thing if you were an editor or agent?
The Heart
Something I would encourage you to remember is that editors and agents are not mean people. They love books just as much as you do. Probably more than you do, actually, because their whole job is to promote the selling of stories and to make stories better. They are not waiting for you to fail. I think it's so important to go into your appointment with a heart that is at peace with the fact that you are looking for a partner in this business, someone you can trust with your story. Yes, you will probably be nervous. Everyone feels that way. But beyond the nerves, realize and remember that the person you are going to speak with wants to see you succeed. They want you to be the next bestseller, and to have discovered you themselves. If you get a "no," don't take that personally. Smile and thank them for their consideration and time. If you make a good impression, you never know what opportunities may await you the next go around.
Do you have any stories to share about conference appointments? What advice would you add to this list?
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5 comments:
Ashley, this is some great stuff here. Never having been to an "appointment" before, I always wondered exactly what happened. Thanks for spelling it out for me!
When I walked in to the waiting area for my first editor/agent appt, the fear and tension was so apparent, I laughed.
No one can discount the importance of the OPPORTUNITY when you've put so much time and effort into a story. But RELAX a bit. Believe in your story and be yourself. Great post Ashley.
My first pitch was cheesy. I thought I would be so theatrical and unique. Didn't work.
But the agent was very kind, read my first chapter, then asked me a lot of questions about my story. He then told me to send him the MS which I did but it ended up not being a good fit for his agency.
Oh well. It was a GREAT learning experience. That's what matters!
Sherrinda, I can't believe you've never pitched before!
Debra! I know what you mean! It's almost like you can feel the tension in the air! What a great point you make about relaxing and believing in your story. I think a passion for the story is what editors and agents most want to see.
Ruth, sounds like the appointment went better than you give yourself credit for if they asked for the full manuscript! I know what you mean, though... I've had those situations before where you think something is going to be so unique and great, then t totally falls flat. Happens to me when I'm teaching all the time... sometimes I make a joke and my students just stare at me. Ha!
Thanks for sharing, everyone!
Sherrinda, I can't believe you've never pitched before!
Debra! I know what you mean! It's almost like you can feel the tension in the air! What a great point you make about relaxing and believing in your story. I think a passion for the story is what editors and agents most want to see.
Ruth, sounds like the appointment went better than you give yourself credit for if they asked for the full manuscript! I know what you mean, though... I've had those situations before where you think something is going to be so unique and great, then t totally falls flat. Happens to me when I'm teaching all the time... sometimes I make a joke and my students just stare at me. Ha!
Thanks for sharing, everyone!
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