 | We've written about it before, and we'll likely write about it again... Like it or not, succeeding as a screenwriter involves a healthy dose of networking. Part of that is getting out there and meeting people, sure. But another big part of networking is mastering the art of keeping in touch. Today we'll share the techniques you can use to manage your relationships in Hollywood (before you have an assistant to do it for you). |
After the connection is made
There are plenty of articles out there about the actual act of networking. We've even got one, if you want to give it a read.
But today's article is about what you need to do after that connection is made. Because, in networking, that's when the men are separated from the boys.
Imagine this scenario:
You've got a relationship with twenty producers, seven potential agents and nine potential managers. And they all ask to read your newest script, with requests spread out over the course of a few months.
If you're like a lot of writers, you'll send that script out when it's requested, maybe you'll send a follow up email after a month or so, and then you throw in the towel.
That's understandable. It's hard to keep track of so many contacts.
But today, we're here with a simple solution.
Every time you follow up with someone, open up your calendar, and set a reminder to email them one month later.
If you've got Gmail, you're one step ahead of the game. That way, you'll never forget to follow up, because Gmail will send you a little nudge every time you're supposed to email someone.
But today's article is about what you need to do after that connection is made. Because, in networking, that's when the men are separated from the boys.
Imagine this scenario:
You've got a relationship with twenty producers, seven potential agents and nine potential managers. And they all ask to read your newest script, with requests spread out over the course of a few months.
If you're like a lot of writers, you'll send that script out when it's requested, maybe you'll send a follow up email after a month or so, and then you throw in the towel.
That's understandable. It's hard to keep track of so many contacts.
But today, we're here with a simple solution.
Every time you follow up with someone, open up your calendar, and set a reminder to email them one month later.
If you've got Gmail, you're one step ahead of the game. That way, you'll never forget to follow up, because Gmail will send you a little nudge every time you're supposed to email someone.
But what do I write when i'm following up on a script i sent?
Don't be cutesy or weird. Just follow up. Something like this should do the trick:
Hey John,
Hope you're doing well.
Just writing to follow up on a script I sent your way a little while back.
Dead In Hollywood: An overworked agent struggles to stay alive in a post-apocolyptic town overrun with zombie screenwriters.
Best,
Your Name Here
Then set a reminder to email again in a month, and move on with your day.
Note: There are a million variations on the email above. Mix and match, based on previous contact with whomever you're emailing, and what you feel comfortable with.
Sometimes the log line feels right in the email, and sometimes it feels off. You be the judge. But the general idea is: Keep it short, sweet and purposeful.
Bump that script a little further up the pile, and maybe you'll have a shot at actually getting it read.
Note: There are a million variations on the email above. Mix and match, based on previous contact with whomever you're emailing, and what you feel comfortable with.
Sometimes the log line feels right in the email, and sometimes it feels off. You be the judge. But the general idea is: Keep it short, sweet and purposeful.
Bump that script a little further up the pile, and maybe you'll have a shot at actually getting it read.
what if they think i'm annoying or they're ignoring me?
This is where you need to trust your instincts. But generally, it's safe to follow up for at least three or four months before giving up. Many would tell you never to stop following up. It's up to you to figure that out on a case by case basis.
I once met a writer who followed up with an agent for twelve straight months before the agent finally read the script... And signed the writer.
I once met a writer who followed up with an agent for twelve straight months before the agent finally read the script... And signed the writer.
How do you keep in touch?
What are your favorite techniques when it comes to the neverending job of networking and emailing and following up in Hollywood?
What parts of this article do you totally disagree with?
Comment below!
What parts of this article do you totally disagree with?
Comment below!