of the series they’re working on, a script from the series, and a few sample premises. Over-
worked story editors have tight deadlines, so keep it very brief. Keep a card file on each
story editor. List their latest series and any other series they’ve edited. From articles you’ve
read and from talking to them, list what they like and dislike and any useful personal infor-
mation that will be helpful in conversation when you talk to them again.
If you’re pitching your own original projects to development people around town, keep
a card file on development executives as well. You’ll eventually meet a lot of story editors
and development people, and you won’t remember it all when you need it later. Then write
and keep writing each day.
Take the time out from your writing to promote yourself and what you’re doing. Be cre-
ative. Be funny. Be different in your promotional efforts so you stand out. Keep up those
contacts, and don’t be afraid to use them; just remember to keep it brief. Make friends with
the assistant who answers the call. They can often help you get through the gate. Calling
once a month or every couple of months is probably okay; calling every day is definitely
counterproductive. Better yet, e-mail or write, send out funny promotional material. Even-
tually, story editors will start referring you to other story editors who are currently looking
for material.
When you get that first assignment, write exactly what that story editor wants and needs.
Ask! And always, always turn in your assignment on time.
The process sounds difficult and it is, but new writers break in all the time. You just need
to be good...and fast...and most of all persistent!
Consider looking for work internationally as well. Many U.S. writers do much of their
writing by e-mail for companies overseas. Contact companies outside of the United States.
There’s a huge market out there for U.S. animation writers. Send sample scripts, credits, and
so on. If you don’t live in the United States, be sure to contact local networks and produc-
tion companies in your search for work.
Whether your employers are around the world or down the street, keep up your con-
tacts. Get your own website. List credits, a bio, awards, and make sample scripts available
there. Add a photo. Send out a periodic e-mail newsletter. Include helpful information along
with the self-promotion, but keep it short. Call your contacts occasionally in order to estab-
lish a more personal relationship. Talk pets and family. Send flowers. Take them to lunch.
Keep up the networking. Try to meet your international contacts at trade events or on busi-
ness trips. Think of your writing as an international business. You are the person responsi-
ble for business development. For a freelance writer, taking the time to look for work is an
important part of your career.
Agents, Networking, and Finding Work 317