

Writing Excuses 6.19: Pitching
9 snips Oct 10, 2011
The hosts explore the vital skill of pitching for writers, emphasizing concise presentation. They break down three key pitch formats, including the elevator pitch, perfect for capturing attention quickly. Insights on crafting a one-sentence pitch highlight the importance of recognizable references. Emphasizing clarity and intrigue, they discuss personal interactions with editors. Through anecdotes and tips, they illustrate the value of practice in perfecting your pitch, helping writers engage effectively with publishers.
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Perfect The One-Sentence Hook
- Boil your story down to a one-sentence elevator pitch to open conversations quickly.
- Keep it short enough to make someone say "tell me more."
Cut Names And Cut The Chatter
- Avoid drowning editors with long, generic explanations and too many names.
- Stop and admit you need to work on your pitch if it's not connecting.
Use Shorthand To Signal Genre
- Use a single clear phrase to signal genre and hook interest quickly.
- Good shorthand can place your book in readers' minds without lengthy explanation.