Hi everyone! I just recently discovered that virtual meetings with lit agents are a thing. How does a pitch to them go? Do you simply read your query letter to them, or do you prepare a speech that more's conversational but that weaves elements of the query letter in? Do they ask questions? Do YOU ask questions? Tell me all the things :)
Hi!
Each individual pitch program/event is different. Some allow 5 minutes, others allow 10, or even up to half an hour depending on what you pay for. Some events will allow the query to be submitted up front, others will ask you to give an elevator pitch (one paragraph pitch with big comps and book comps)
Some people like to prep their full query, elevator pitch, additional comps, synopsis, and first pages—along with a verbal summary of the synopsis, and questions on how to make your query stand out/possible issues with the query package you need guidance on. Have everything written down in case nerves strike!
Ideally you can ask at least 5 questions in a short time frame, but if you don’t see terms and conditions explicitly laid out in the website, you can email to ask. Make sure the agents are reputable and the organizers aren’t on Writer Beware for any negative reason.
And remember, some agents may be intrigued enough to request a full or partial, but this is not guaranteed. Be sure to pick an agent who has good experience and matching MSWL requests to your project.
Feel free to share the name of the program if you want.
Hope this helps!
Thank you!