Forming Relationships with TV Lit Agents in Los Angeles
Put yourself in Los Angeles working in the industry. This allows you to meet and form relationships with working TV lit agents.
Requirements to Sign with an Agent
- Have two excellent samples in your target genre proving you can write more than one great script.
- Show interpersonal skills through industry connections.
Agent Fees and Charges
Quality agents only charge commission, not fees. Standard commission is 10-15% of sales.
Getting Scripts to Buyers without an Agent
Entry level TV jobs like script coordinator can get you in the writers’ room. Impress them there to get freelance episode offers without an agent.
After Agent Submission During Staffing Season
The agent submits you to studio and network executives who may offer freelance episodes to test your skills. Do well and you may be offered a staff job if the show continues.
Crafting an Effective TV Pitch
- Write an excellent pilot script first.
- Practice your verbal pitch.
- Know future seasons’ story arcs.
Payment for Scripts
In 2017-2018, WGA spec script sales ranged $72k-$136k, averaging $110k. Minimums depend on project type and budget.
Steps to Secure a Literary Agent as a New Author
To get a literary agent, finish your book then revise until it is the absolute best it can be before seeking an agent. Prepare sample chapters. Research agents accepting manuscripts in your genre. Do not pay any fees upfront; legitimate agents work on commission. Build publishing credits while seeking an agent. Attend writers’ conferences to connect personally with agents attending. A good agent partners with you to ensure your book’s success. Submit to publishers through an agent rather than unsolicited; agents open doors. Securing an agent can be as hard as getting published. Pitch your book via a covering letter or email. For fiction, complete and revise your manuscript before approaching an agent. Get readers beyond family. A literary agent represents authors to publishers, leveraging relationships and expertise.