Thursday, May 14, 2009

Agent Pitch Slam

As many of you know, (because I can't stop talking about it) on May 27 I'll be attending the Book Expo America/Writer's Digest writers' conference in New York. It's a one day event, just prior to the Book Expo America conference May 28-31. You should know this if you're going to register, so you don't end up registering as an exhibitor for the BEA event instead of the BEA/WD event and have to call technical support to clear up the confusion. Not that anyone I know would do such a thing.

My main reason to attend is the Agent Pitch Slam, or, speed dating with agents. Three minutes to pitch an agent, as many agents as you can visit in the 2-hour window. There are over sixty agents attending, but apparently because of long lines (think Janet Reid, Stephany Evans or Donald Maass), I should plan on pitching 3-6 only. I'm splitting my time between The Bodley Boys and Center Court Seats and a Pair of Jimmy Choos and researching the best choices for each. I wish I could pack Pamela in my suitcase to give me a boost of confidence (and to double up on the pitches). I hope they allow texting in the pitch slam room.

Two weeks ago before I met with an agent at the DFW Conference, I paced the lobby, reciting my pitch under my breath. More than one person asked if I needed any assistance. Like maybe a ride to the psych hospital. I'm trying to stay calm, agents are only people as they like to say.

Anyone been? Want to share some tips with me?

4 comments:

Maria Zannini said...

I haven't pitched in a couple of years, but the best advice I ever got was to talk about the book the way I would talk about a favorite movie and/or book. Be excited about it and share the enthusiasm.

Good luck, Joan!

Joan Mora said...

Maria--great to hear from you!

Thanks for the encouragement!

Pamela Hammonds said...

Find a big enough suitcase and a snorkle, and I'm game. We could have some fun and meet some agents!

Unknown said...

Ack! My stomach hurts for you just thinking about it....Hope it goes well!