4 Ways to Get the Attention of a TV Literary Manager

If you’re finding it hard to get the attention of a potential manager, the cold hard truth is that you probably need to focus on the creative. As a manager, I get dozens of queries every day, including referrals from people I like and respect personally. I can only represent a handful of writers at any given time, so I have to say no to 99% of the writers who are out there.

When you’re a writer just getting started, and you’re trying to get signed, here are the ways to get my attention:

Way #1: An attention-grabbing title.

I have responded positively to queries and requested competition-winning scripts on title alone. I can’t give examples here without permission, but think about like Ghostbusters, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, Honey I Shrunk The Kids or Legally Blonde. Sometimes there’s just a title that tells you everything you need to know about why you want to read that script.

Way #2: An attention-grabbing logline.

Maybe the title doesn’t quite capture it, but when you pitch your story in 1-2 sentences, you want your listener to at the very least say, “Hang on, I have to see how that turns out.” You’re trying to get a manager, yes, but that manager then needs to turn around and pitch this script to producers and executives. Give them something they’ll be excited to talk about. If I am already telling my friends and family about a script that I heard about today, you’re on the right track. I’m going to be excited to read it.

Way #3: An interesting or funny bio.

I know for a fact that there is something interesting and unique about you that has a funny story behind it. Include this in your bio and make me want to meet the person behind those details. In a sea of aspiring writers, everyone has been a Nicholls Quarterfinalist, I’m sorry. But what is a go-to anecdote that also gives us a little insight into why your perspective of the world is skewed from most people’s in a fascinating way?

Way #4: Content that entertains me.

I’m not talking about your script here (though if that’s not firing on all cylinders, you’re going to have a hard time keeping a manager’s attention once you capture it with your catchy hook).

I think a lot of writers forget that we are people. After a long, hard day of answering emails and talking to studio executives about their mandates, I commute home from my kitchen office to my living room couch and watch TikTok videos. I listen to podcasts while walking my dog. I doomscroll through Instagram. I occasionally leave the house to go to stand-up comedy shows with my friends. I subscribe to educational or funny email newsletters. I write short stories in an online community.

If I am a legitimate fan of your work from elsewhere in the world, when your name comes across my inbox, I am going to jump at the opportunity to read your work and meet with you.

And a word of caution: This also goes in the opposite direction. I highly recommend being careful about what you post on social media. I have had really annoying Screenwriter Twitter users come across my desk. If I don’t like your online persona, I am not going to give your writing a chance. It might not be fair, but that’s my reality.