I’m not exactly sure what is being taught in school these days but how to write effective letters and inquiries must not be one of them. When I was growing up, we were indeed taught this in school (and I’m not that old). So let’s say you are my age and you skipped school those days or you are younger and are a victim of modern substandard schooling and you find yourself writing gems like this (Yep, I’m using a few real e-mail messages):

Your e-mail:
“I’d like to be a part of “XYZ” film. Thanks, Some lazy person”

“Interested in working on “X” film and “Y” film.”

My Response:
So what?

*And let’s not forget the messages sent entirely in capital letters.

Your e-mail:
“Hi, I have a book proposal for “XYZ” book for “ABC” audience. It’s serious info. presented in a slightly comical manner. Are you interested in hearing more?”

My response:
Why on earth would I? You’ve given me little or no reason to be interested.

I’m typically all about anti-conformity and pro-creativity, however, when it comes to getting someone to invest in you and your craft, you have to get their attention. That means being both professional and creative at the same time. If you are professional and creative in how you present yourself and it is clear that you value your craft and its place in your life then you are on the right path, even if others still choose not to invest in you. *If your art (writing, acting, and/or film crew member) is all about business than you are on a hustle plan I can’t help you with (for example, if the only way a filmmaker can make a film (i.e. do their art), is to get funds from investors for which they have to pay this money back and then some, then your art has become a business deal. Whereas if you make the best film you can make with your own money or from “gift” money, then your art remains art (and this art may become financially viable as well).

I find that people who do not take time to present themselves in professional and creative ways such as with the examples listed, usually lack the energy, commitment and drive that is vital to a working relationship and to their craft. Publishers and filmmakers see far too many inquiries from short-term energy sucking individuals and are conditioned to weed them out based on a set of warning signals. I personally feel these are valid warning signals unlike those used in 99% of standard job interviews (yes that’s a little jab. *smile*).

Ok, so now that you’re face has been ripped off, let’s put you back together here. It’s all about being helpful. At the least, you want to practice BASIC letter/inquiry writing. That means picking up a book or two or surfing the web and finding info on the correct elements required in your basic professional letter or inquiry. You also want to always use your spell check and double check your grammar. An e-mail or written letter is not an instant or text message conversation. Do not use “web” or “mobile talk” outside of your cell phone or instant message. This is the bare minimum to at least get people to respect your inquiry (now there is a word no one seems to be familiar with anymore).

If you are an author looking to be published there is absolutely no excuse for making unprofessional inquiries. The Writer’s Market and many other books have provided step by step instructions on how to write query letters for the publishing market. The Writer’s Market also provides information on how to contact publishing companies to obtain their guidelines for submissions. In addition, publishing companies with websites, usually list this information directly on their sites.

Those serious about acting should always write a professional letter to gather information about the production and to provide some information about your abilities. If possible, send a demo and resume and definitely a head shot. For acting talent, I’m personally less interested in the resume and more interested in a demo. I definitely put a high premium on a demo. Demos help filmmakers visualize how you might fit into their production. In this case the professional letter is a formality that commands attention and respect. From there, your demo helps me make a tentative choice.

Do not take rejection personally when you have done the right thing. Not everyone will be interested in what you love to do. That is a simple, unavoidable reality. Even if NO one is interested, it does not mean you have to change how you feel about your craft. You should be doing it for yourself anyway (no matter how cliche that is).

None of us can afford to give in to lazy people with power. Have you ever, in searching for a job, happen to read any of the contradictory articles about how to write a resume? The US is relatively the only country that uses what I call the “lazy man’s” resume. Whereas most other countries require a Curriculum Vitae to apply for jobs or universities. Upon reading the contradictory articles one thing stood out. The bulleted resume is for lazy people with power. CVs can and are concise but at the same time give the most accurate level of information for making hiring decisions. We must always present ourselves with the most accurate level of information. Period. Before you shift into powerless mode, ask yourself… Do I really want to develop a working relationship with anyone who can’t spend 20 minutes reading about me and my craft? (because just like how not being professional and creative says something about you, not taking the time to choose the best talent and crew or new author says a lot about them). In addition, presenting yourself to publishers and filmmakers with the best level of information will also give you an opportunity to review your accomplishments. This is always a good thing.

Since Our Side of Joy turned out to offer much more story than I anticipated, I’m having to go through the 6 hours of interviews and not only do some cutting but also write down every concept covered so I can see where my story needs to go, what needs to be left out, and what relationship the concepts have to each other to tell a coherent story. There is a lot of work to be done here.

I also spoke with a professional documentary story consultant about this film and while it was very interesting, not entirely what I was looking for. I’m always amazed at what people can get paid for. Anyway, I’m back to being on my own with this but would like to huddle up with a few people who can give honest feedback on the way this project is going.  On one hand it’s cool working alone because you can do whatever you want without having to wait on anyone but your subjects, but on the other hand, not cool because you do need the feedback of other people and help as well so you don’t feel so burnt out before the film is even done.

Well.. back to work. :)