How can you address objections in your novel pitch?

In the beginning when I was writing my first and last novel, I attended 4 writing conferences (San Francisco, NY, Philadelphia, and Atlanta). At each I pitched my novel though I was nowhere far enough along to be doing that. So, my first suggestion is not to jump the gun. Wait until you are almost finished or finished before you go pitching. I found that they give you so little time to pitch your novel that for me, who was writing a saga, a historical novel, it wasn't enough time. Thirdly, many of the people who you pitch to are novices. And in my case they were neither familiar with the Victorian period in America nor familiar with cattle ranching or India and the Tibetan Plateau. It was a total waste of time for me. It really sucked!

In crafting a compelling novel pitch, addressing potential objections is crucial. Anticipate concerns and weave them into your narrative. Acknowledge possible reservations while emphasizing the unique elements that set your story apart. For example, if facing skepticism about a common theme, highlight your distinctive characters or unexpected plot twists. Use concise language to showcase your understanding of the market and readership. Leverage comparisons with successful works, demonstrating both awareness of existing literature and your novel's distinctive qualities. By proactively addressing objections, your pitch not only showcases confidence but also positions your novel as a valuable and unique addition to the literary landscape.

In order to address objections in your novel pitch, you need to identify common objections. This is so that you would be prepared to face it when the time comes. You need to know what are the things that the editors or agents would probably object to. You need to know how to convince them that there is no problem with your novel. You also need to know your novel well. This is so that you would be able to answer any questions posed to you. You also need to know how the audience would respond to your novel. This is so that you can use this to tell the editor or agent.

I am still working on my first novel, which while writing it, I havd a brain storm and took the book into another new direction, but it's indoubtedly the same book, so I am unable to answer your question.

You could also address objections in your hook. This is because the hook is the one that attracts the audience. Your hook should reflect the type of novel it is. It shouldn't be a confusing one. It should be as straightforward as possible. Your hook should be as interesting as possible. This is so that the readers would be "hooked" into reading your novel.

In crafting your novel's pitch, think of the hook like your opening chess move. I once redefined a pitch by starting with a question that challenged the reader's expectations, instantly addressing potential skepticism. "What if the last place you'd look for magic was the only place you'd find it?" This approach turned the cliché on its head, sparking curiosity about the novel's unique setting and characters. Keep it sharp, make it bold, and let your first line pave the way for intrigue and novelty.

Think of your synopsis as a "campfire story," in which the storyteller spins a tale that has everyone on the edge of their seat. Why is that? Because the storyteller concentrates on the story. They don't give a blow-by-blow accounting of the plot, but rather the most interesting highlights that have an emotional effect on the audience.

Imagine you're crafting a key to unlock your reader's imagination. In your synopsis, it's not just about outlining the plot; it's showing you have the "key elements" - a gripping arc, believable characters, and a research-backed setting. I once pitched a novel where I pinpointed the exact moments my research influenced the storyline, making the tale not just believable but irresistible. Your synopsis isn't just a plot summary. It's proof of your novel's credibility and allure.

To be able to address objections in your novel pitch, you have to anticipate questions in your bio. This is so that you would have an answer prepared when the time comes. You need to be clear and honest about who you are in your bio. This is to let everyone know who you are and what makes you qualified as an author. You need to also know if they would object because of your choice of genre. You could explain why you chose this genre and how it attracts the attention of the readers.

Not everyone likes our pitch or even the entire idea. That said, not everyone hates our pitch too. If someone says that your pitch isn't good, ask them for inputs. Whether it is the framing of pitch or if the entire idea seems off or anything else. When you are asking this, frame it in a way you are curious to learn from it rather being defensive about it. This also gives you the confidence that's much needed for your work as you are open to learn.

Here in China every job typically requires an unpaid 70-100 page proposal to even get into the game. So pitch or not pitch is a real question for us. We try to find a unique angle and story that brings the entire pitch together.

Acknowledge the objections, but point out that differing points of view can bring educational opportunities and broaden your own personal perspective and horizons. Open new doors and experience new things.