Excellent pitches leave you both feeling good. Yay!
People pitch ideas to me regularly. It can be a lot of fun. Here are a few tips on pitching to a producer, but feel free to add your own in the comments.
Know What’s Important
Ask yourself, “What’s important to this producer?” Then pitch an idea that aligns with the producer’s values. Research what inspires him by paying attention to what he blogs, tweets, or posts online. Pitching something he’s not interested is a disservice to both of you. It makes you look uninformed, and he may not be as open to your next idea.
Think of the Challenges
Learn his challenges: resources, access, and timing. Then pitch an idea with fewer challenges. It’s more likely to be considered seriously if glaring obstacles aren’t in the way. Pitching something too challenging might make him cognizant of his current limitations: money, experience, etc. That can end your conversation negatively and he may associate that with you, limiting future opportunities.
Be Succinct
As soon as you start sharing, his mind will be racing so pitch briefly, then leave a comfortable silence while he thinks. Let him ask questions accordingly. Talking just to fill the gap in conversation can make you look less than confident, weakening your pitch.
Sell Your Idea
If you’re passionate about the idea, it’ll show. Enthusiasm is contagious. Every project needs a champion: someone who can keep the enthusiasm going so that the project stays alive. If you’re not willing to sell your idea, why should anyone listen to it?
Don’t Take It Personally
If the producer turns you down, don’t take it personally. Timing can be everything. There are many variables a producer considers, most of which have nothing to do with you. If you’re dedicated to a worthwhile idea, it can happen. Don’t take one rejection as the final answer.
Other Tips
If you have tips to share, please do so in the comments. I’d love to know what you think.