Contact Authors: Step 2 "Follow Up"

Be selective with projects and clients. The pitch has been made. A card received. Continue the momentum through prompt follow up! Is this the right project and client?

• Send an email to the correct contact within two (2) days. The email should include the Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How. Use this example:

“Hello Ms. Mary Jones,

We meet (where?) at Book Expo America (when?) two days ago. I was (who?) the somewhat funny illustrator in the Heartbreaker t-shirt. Your (what?) book about fairies sounds exciting. (why?) We can create a profitable story using both our talents. (how?) My contact information is listed below.

Our meeting was brief. Did you have any additional questions?

Kindly,

The Professional Illustrator

Mark Wayne Adams
CEO, MWA, Inc.

Contact Authors: Step 1 "Spiel"

Once an illustrator has a purpose and relevant work, it's time to contact authors. Not just one author, many authors! Develop a personalized "The Spiel", which works for most all situations. I offer 3 contracts that can be explained quickly, Purchase, Copyright, and Royalty contracts.

Example:

"Yes, Mr. Smith I do illustrate professionally. I offer 3 types of contracts that meet most any budget. They are Purchase, Copyright, and Royalty contracts. A Purchase Contract is the most expensive option, however allows a client to own the artwork and sign his/her name as the illustrator. A Copyright Contract is a budget friendly option, that allows a one time use of the digital art for the life of a printed book. The most popular of the three is a Royalty Contract, which is most cost effective and monetarily rewarding for a client. A Royalty Contract allows a client to reproduce the art in books, on merchandise, or anything that makes money. Mr. Smith do you have a card? I can better explain the benefits in a short email. Mr. Smith, you can then decide the contract that best fits your project."

Learning "The Spiel" is key to qualifying a client. This takes two minutes at most and can be repeated all day. Especially great at book events, conferences, or on an elevator.

Mark Wayne Adams
CEO, MWA, Inc.

Enhanced Reading:

How to Win Friends & Influence People, Love Is Letting Go of Fear, The Greatest Salesman in the World. Realize your potential and success will follow!