Screenwriting : Representation Outreach by Sharon Hankins

Hi Sharon, my experience is limited. I was able to connect with a film agent through my publishing, but that probably doesn't help you out. One thing I've heard a lot of is to just keep sending out queries. You want to make your query as professional as possible. And don't be shy to do cold calls. You may get a lot of negative feedback - but eventually, you'll get a positive.

Have you produced any of your own stuff? Producing even segments of a larger work will have a more lasting impact on your career than finding a manager, because someone who takes initiative and gets results has more value to the industry than someone merely with representation. Not that you can’t do both, but talk is super cheap and people are far more willing to work with someone who takes risks without needing permission.

Win a contest, make movies, have a film & tv related job, move to LA. Do all.

You need at least one killer script that managers will want to read. Also, have a pocket full of other ideas you can pitch to them on the fly. Then, try using a service like Stage 32 to pitch managers. People do query letters and cold calls, but these days the success rate is super low. However, it doesn't hurt to try them. All avenues should be explored, including the one's Dan and Stephen suggest.

For me it was a combo of getting a job in the industry that allowed me to produce small stuff; winning and placing highly in contests; networking on Stage 32, and having a high concept idea that people liked. However, that stuff didn't land me a manager - it led to my first paid gig, and those have led to others. No manager required. Just me hustling.

Have something for them to do. Don’t think of them as a step. If I was after a manager I would write something like this.

Hi Sharon,

I require a manager to assist me with xxxxx. I would like to build an ongoing business relationship with someone that can help me with such issues.

If you able to assist me with this please contact me at xxxxxxx.

Kind regards

Craig

I like what Phil Parker said. Start looking over the pitch sessions that are available. It's a hard learning experience but it can really help you out.

Yeah, pitch sessions are a great resource for beginners.

What Kay Luke said.

Sharon. If I was starting out today I would probably pay to pitch to some of those manager here and send out query letters and make cold calls. I did the cold calls and query letters. I got my Agent from a cold call. As you know in this business you never know what will work so you gotta try everything, Good luck!!!