Get Some Swagger!

Last post for this week. I need to get some things done around my house. ;) However, I couldn't resist posting this video. I wish my life were as cool as this. I need some swagger!



This is an awesome example of advertising. I don't drive a Sienna. I love my Odyssey. But this clip stays with you. It's catchy, makes your head bob. Makes you want your very own Swagger Wagon.

We have to do this with our novels. Think of your query letter, logline, summary and pitch as your advertising. You need to pack as much punch into those short moments as possible to grab the attention of the agent. Pull them in, make them feel your swagger. Make them bob their head and smile and think, "Oh, yeah! I get this!"

And yes, I know that is the hardest thing we have to do as writers. Writing the novel is easier. Revising the novel is easier. Taking brutal criticism is easier. So how do we do it?

• Keep working. Don't give up.
• Create an advertising team. Gather your family, friends, critique partners and brainstorm together. Polish those letters, lines, summaries and pitches until they are the best you can make them.
• Allow yourself to have fun and enjoy the process. Smile, it makes people think you know what you are doing.
• Don't be afraid to look silly. Putting yourself out there takes guts. When your personality shines, you will find the right agent for you. One of those queries will fall into the hands of someone who swaggers your style. You just have to be patient. 

At least, this is what I keep telling myself. :) What would you add to this list?

Commenter Additions:

Alex J. Cavanaugh--"Recognize your mistakes and learn from them."

Laurel's Leaves--"See every criticism as a new lens though which to see your work more clearly so you can make it stronger."

Elana Johnson--"When you receive criticism, give it a day or two to gel before tossing it aside. More often than not, I realize my CP's are right and I'm not."

Mia--"Every revision and critque you do can only make it better. It's like you're plucking out all the best bits and running with them." Plus, she deserves a link because I got a post card from her today with the Acaran Mountains on them. No, I'm serious! She thinks it's Scotland, but it's exactly what I picture in my head for my Sendek mountain range. How amazing is that???

Carolyn--"Don't look at the clock. It will only make you sweat!"