How to Overcome Anxiety while Pitching Your Novel
Dear Lemonheads,
Pitching your novel in person or via zoom isn’t necessarily natural. You’re a writer - you wrote a book and perhaps a query and synopsis, but now it feels like you have to become an actor on the spot. Memorize lines? Dazzle with your personality? You didn’t sign up for this!
What if I told you to forget all of that? You don’t have to memorize.
Number 1 - Do something relaxing before the pitch. Talk to your friends. Meditate. Pray. Stretch. Watch something funny.
Number 2 - Learn your story! If you don’t know what your story is about, it’ll be harder to talk about it. Practice just talking about the plot with your friends - just it short and sweet.
Number 3 - Write down your 2-3 sentence pitch! If it’s via zoom, tape it onto the right side of your laptop (hello cheat sheets!). If you know your pitch, you still might blank - keep this here to help you!
Number 4 - When it’s your turn to talk to a literary agent, shoot the breeze. Make small talk. How is the conference? Is this your first time being there? Introduce yourself. Compliment something that you like - maybe earrings or their outfit (if it’s cool). Then, tell them that you don’t have your pitch memorized, and start reading it off your phone or sheet. You’ve made enough human interaction, reading is ok! Also, leave enough time at the end for feedback!
Remember they might be shy or introverted themselves, so they’ll understand a bit anxiety. Just BREATHE! I’ve been to 2 writing conferences, if you need tips, DM me.
Until next time,
-M.
#writingtips #writingexperience #anxiety #howtopitch #pitching #pitchinglessons #writingcommunity
Pitching your novel can be a daunting experience, especially when anxiety creeps in. Many writers feel pressure to perform, which can hinder their ability to present their work effectively. However, overcoming this anxiety is entirely possible with the right techniques. First, embrace relaxation techniques. Whether it’s stretching, meditating, or simply chatting with a friend, calming your nerves beforehand can significantly enhance your performance. It helps you shift focus from what could go wrong to simply enjoying the experience of sharing your work. Additionally, understanding your story inside and out can make talking about it easier. Clearly outlining your plot and practicing it in casual settings allows you to refine your main points without pressure. Knowing your material strengthens your confidence and helps reduce anxiety. Writing down a concise pitch—2 to 3 sentences—provides a safety net. Displaying it on your laptop during virtual pitches ensures you have a reference point if your mind goes blank. This little cheat sheet can be a game-changer in maintaining your composure and effectively communicating your work. It's also important to connect with literary agents through simple conversation. Engaging in small talk can break the ice, making the atmosphere feel less intimidating. Compliments and genuine inquiries can establish rapport, setting a more comfortable tone for your pitch. Last but not least, always leave room for feedback. Demonstrating openness to critique not only shows professionalism but also invites a meaningful dialogue. Remember, many agents understand the jitters that come with pitching and will appreciate your honesty and effort to engage.
Love all these - very helpful!