"IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD"
There has never been a greater opportunity than the present for new writers hoping to kick-start a career in radio, television or films.
There are now hundreds of independant TV Production companies with new ones springing up almost weekly. Add to that, the numerous Satellite channels now available, there is a vast market for television programmes of every kind. All these outlets are hungry for products and every product needs to be written by somebody. That somebody could be you!
Turning to Radio, apart from the four main BBC stations there are over 39 local BBC radio stations and several Independent radio stations.
As for films, many Independent film producers are constantly on the look out for low budget, cost effective films.
So it becomes obvious that the opportunities are boundless. The question is, how best to take advantage and tap into this huge market. The first thing is to watch as much television and listen to the radio as much as you can. Write to television companies, radio stations and Independent producers and ask them what type of programmes they are looking for. Most will be happy to to tell you. Many of you will wonder about acquiring an agent to help you place your work, but it's not easy. Most reputable agents will already have a full list of clients and are reluctant to take on new writers, especially those with little or no experience. You could of course think of an original idea, write it up and send it to the commissioning of the particular department your project is aimed at...drama, light entertainment, soap, game show etc.
But what about those of you who are just starting out and lack experience? Well, we all have to start somewhere, and the advantage of being a writer is that there are virtually no start up costs. To put it in the most simple terms - all you need is a sheet of paper and a pen.
However, there are certain rules that should be observed. On the study wall above my desk is a sheet of paper with the heading,
"THE WRITER'S TEN COMMANDMENTS" - here they are.
1. It must be original
2. It must be believable
3. It must be entertaining
4. It must have a beginning, a middle and an end
5. It must contain elements of conflict, humour and pathos
6. It must be something about which you know
7. It must be based on attitudes and relationships
8. It must be tailored to the producer's requirements
9. It must include a feel good factor
10. It must be neatly presented
I devised those ten commandments many years ago and still use them as a guide line. I also devised, with a fellow writer, a fully comprehensive and professional creative writing course which covers every aspect of writing. More information can be found on our website
www.written-by.co.uk together with details of our long list of credits for the radio and television programmes we have written during our long careers spanning over 40 years.
Apart from the joy of writing itself, there is the added pride of seeing your name in print attached to a project which you have written. And received a fee for doing so. With average fees for a 30 minute sitcom, a 60 minute drama or royalties from gameshow/peopleshow/reality programme starting at not less than £5,000 writing can not only be pleasurable but extremely profitable.
So take the first step by visiting our website at
www.written-by.co.uk
