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Step 1
* Research current televised programming to educate yourself in current trends or emerging formats for new show.
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Step 2
* Study the professional advice given by the television industry (see the external links below).
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Step 3
* Read the current reports on format and concept protection given by the industry (which can also be found through the links below).
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Step 4
* Write a descriptive but brief outline of your idea; usually 3-5 pages for reality-based concepts, and 2-5 pages for scripted projects. It's important to be very original and specific in your descriptions, while also writing efficiently. Move the story or outline along briskly for the reader. Most importantly, ask yourself "what are we watching?" Many first time writers get caught up in describing the idea or why its interesting, while the reader (the Producer) isn't able to clearly see what they would be watching.
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Step 5
* Register your project with the Writers Guild of America or the Creators Vault ( http://www.creatorsvault.com ) for time-stamped proof of creation.
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Step 6
* Submit your television project and idea to the TV Writers Vault ( http://www.tvwritersvault.com ) for review and consideration by leading production companies and networks.
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Step 7
* Receive electronic proof of review for your protection by the TV Writers Vault, and track any companies reviewing or requesting to contact you for the purchase of your concept.
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Step 8
* Use the Hollywood Creative Directory to cross-reference companies and producers who might be interested in your type of show. Make cold calls and write query letters requesting submission of your project.
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Step 9
* If an in-person meeting or pitch is scheduled, be on time, be brief, be open to change or suggestion, and give the producer reason's to feel they can sell the show. And again, get right to the point of "what are we watching". At the very least, you've created a new contact to bring projects to directly.
If they choose to purchase your show, then they'll offer you an option-deal and you'll be collaborating with them on a limited basis as they move into packaging the project with talent to pitch the networks.
Good Luck, and Be Inspired!
Comments
smanville said
on 8/25/2008 Yes, its one of many avenues you need to take to find the right company to connect with your project.
mainstream180 said
on 7/17/2008 is step 8 necessary if you've done step 7?