Writing for Television: Internship, Collaboration & Spec Scripts

Whether you write as a freelance professional, write blogs or even write for Associated Content, have you ever thought about writing for television? For many writers, especially those on Associated Content, there is an underlying passion to tell a story. If this defines you, writing for television may be an opportunity for a new career path.

So, what does writing for television require? First, you must understand television and know, without question, the genre of television you are most interested in. Knowing this first piece of crucial information, will set the stage for your development in television writing as it will guide you into the type of television writing you are most passionate about.

The next issue to address is the need to collaborate with another individual. While most writers, especially those for Associated Content, are very good at writing, it may be necessary to collaborate with another individual to create the perfect television platform. Collaborating with another writer, you may find that where your writing weaknesses lay, i.e. character development, your partner may have strength. The key to successful writing partnerships lies in finding an individual, who writes well, is creative and can draw strength upon your weaknesses.

Another option, when beginning your television writing career, is to contact well known writers in the industry and inquire as to how you might become part of their team on a voluntary basis. Outlining your desire to find someone who can mentor you will almost certainly boost the ego of the professional television writer and, invariably, you will get a response to your request, even if it means contacting several writers for assistance.

To boost your knowledge base in the genre you hope to write for, consider attending seminars provided by professionals in the industry who understand and know the writing process. You want to find these seminars and work with those individuals who are well known in the industry and provide the best possible opportunity for not only your education and training but also provide a great way in which to network with other writers and producers.

And, finally, contact a few television agents and ask to speak with their assistants. Upon contact, inquire as to what "spec scripts" the agent is recommending for the year. The "spec script" will be a recommendation to write a piece based on a current hit television show, usually in its sophomore year or beyond, to demonstrate your ability to write a script using the show's template. Remember, the recommendation for a "spec script" is simply to show your writing ability, and your ability to format and follow an existing show's template, with no intent the script will be bought or sold. Instead, this may open the door for your opportunity to become a freelance writer for that particular show or some other show the agent feels you may be suited for.

As with any writing opportunity, taking risks are necessary to achieving results. While writing is a timely process, it is a rewarding process and, writing for television, may open new opportunities into your career as a freelance writer while still offering your services as a Content Producer for Associated Content.