How to Submit Ideas for a New Reality Show to TV Stations

When you watch all of the different reality shows on television, do you find yourself thinking of your own ideas for a show? Do you think you could make a better show than what's out there right now? The best way to find out if your idea for a reality TV show is going to be the next big thing is to submit it to a network or production company. It may take a lot of time and patience to get your idea to the right people, but with a bit of work your idea could be the next big thing in reality TV.

Things You'll Need

• Internet connection
• Computer
• Printer optional)
• Paper (optional)
• Postage stamps (optional)

Instructions

Getting Ready to Pitch Your Idea

1. Define your idea for your show. Be sure you're clear on the type of show you want it to be. Once you have your idea, put together a logline. A longline is a short paragraph that gives a synopsis of your idea. Your logline shouldn't be more than 30-40 words long and should give the reader a general idea of what your show will be about.

2. Give your show a format. The show's format is the premise that moves it forward. For example, if you want to do a show about dancing, your format could be that the contestants would have to work in teams to develop dance routines. Once the winning team is chosen, the people from that team would compete with each other for the grand prize.

3. Put your idea on paper. Create a simple document that includes your logline, format and how the show would resolve.

4. Locate a list of networks that are looking for shows. The Hollywood Creative Directory is a good place to start. This will give you a comprehensive list of networks and producers who are actively looking for show ideas, as well as their contact information. This will help you determine which networks may be a good fit for your show. You also can use social networking web sites like Tvwritersvault.com to connect with people who may be interested in your show.

5. Submit your idea. Once you have narrowed it down to a few networks or producers, use the contact information you've obtained to contact that person by mail, email or phone.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to make your submission stand out. Remember networks and producers get submissions for shows all the time. Let them know that your idea is worth their time.

• Always read the submission guidelines for the networks and producers you want to send your idea to. Some will not look at material that does not meet their criteria.

• Keep your submission short. Networks and producers get a lot of material sent to them and are move likely to pass over something that is too long.

• Some networks do not take unsolicited material. If you send you ideas to a network or producer that does not accept unsolicited material it will be sent back, usually without looking at it.

References

• Associated Content
• The TV Writers Vault
• How to do Things