In this episode, we review the overall pitching process.
Here's a run-down if you've missed it:
Get your manuscript in "good enough" shape to pitch. Remember, there's still more work to be done once you get picked up!
Make sure your query is stellar. (No pressure, right?!)
Write short personalizations for each agent on your short-list.
Double-check each of those agent's submission requirements.
Don't rush! The process of pitching takes time. You don't want to make a mistake with one tiny little detail that ends up jeopardizing your chances with a great agent because you didn't put the right subject in your email.
Jennie has some useful tips that will save lots of time in the long run (even though it might take a while to set up in the beginning).
We haven't talked much about beta readers and how they fit into the pitching prep process. Should you have your writer-friends beta read? Or should you have your reader-friends beta read?
My last Hail Mary question for Jennie before she turns me loose on the final leg to pitching is this: comp titles! I get a wee bit nervous and start second-guessing my comp titles. Jennie heads to Amazon to help me answer my comp title questions, and we work through what works best (and what the comp title's actual purpose is in the query letter).
And then...
I'm off to pull everything together before I hit send on my first query on Season 3, Episode 9 of Mom Writes!