Lee Jessup shares her experience on the insider’s track to developing a successful writing career in the film industry.
In the screenwriting industry, Lee Jessup = powerful career coach and consultant for screenwriters.
Lee was born in Israel, spending her early years accompanying her film producer Dad to work. Lee wasn’t born in a trunk, but she did have early access to the DNA of the movie business and how a screenwriter gets produced. An optioned writer, Lee found herself gravitating toward nurturing fledgling artists on how to monetize themselves while building a pedigree. Her book Getting it Write, is a resource guide for the writing professional.
Married Mom of two, Lee has built a niche for herself in Hollywood doing what she is passionate about. Her book, Getting in Write
What is a career coach?
Lee Jessup: Think of a career coach as a guidance counselor for your screenwriting career. Someone who assists you in figuring out strategies for getting your material into the industry. The competition is stiff for gaining representation with an Agent or Manager.
What is the most important information a screenwriter should know?
Lee Jessup: Work strategically, write your passion, and surround yourself with people who support you, and it will lead you to greatness. The Agents and Managers have their antennas charged 24/7. They’re searching for the next big idea, the unique world, a character that has never been seen before.
What do you look for in a writer that would inspire you to introduce them to a potential Manager?
Lee Jessup: I rarely introduce material to my friends in representation, but when I do I look for a strong mature voice with solid material. Also, being good in a room is key. They should have brand clarity, with at least 3 scripts in that brand. Some writers, with great potential, balk at this concept. They say “I write in all genres, I don’t want to limit myself to just one”. Then they complain how hard it is to get representation. There are many reasons to create a clear brand. First, that’s how representation sells you. Second, the more you focus on one genre, the better you get.
What is the most underrated skill of a screenwriter?
Lee Jessup: Being good in a room. Always be pleasant, DON’T COMPLAIN. You want to fit into the industry. It’s a social business, so get social. Communicate with others, extend your network. Get comfortable with social media.
What does a screenwriter need to do to get representation?
Lee Jessup: Have a great writing sample. Not just a sellable piece that’s displaying your craft, but a piece that says, ‘This is it, this is the one that is going to change everything”. Participate in the high visibility contests like – the Nicholl Fellowship, Fianl Draft’s,Big Break, Page Awards, BlueCat, Austin Film Festival, Script Pipeline and the ISA contests. Stoke your creative writing and business at the same time. Generate 5-10 High-Concept ideas for a feature every month.
Oh, and always be trying to impress your representation. That way you stay current and relevant.
For more information, or to hook up with Lee for a consultation: Lee@leejessup.com and www.leejessup.com
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