Selling Reality TV Concepts - How Do I?

[KeithK]

I had an idea occur to me today and I want to push it out, there are only a couple of networks that will be interested in it due to is specialized nature... so it will either be a quick, easy sell or something I write, copy write and shelve. Its a game show sort of thing.

What is the vehicle used to do this? Do I just do a standard query letter, a synopsis, outline, bulleted list or what? Also, where would I send it? Directly to the two networks I have in mind as possible markets? I doubt an agent would be interested in something that only has one or two potential clients... or would they?

 

[thesammyshow]

HMMMMM... My best guess would be to package your game show, with the synopsis and demographic information and if possible you could include a low budget version using some people you know for the show, so they can get a feel for it. As far as who to send it to, I think it would be best to start with production companies in L.A who specialize in game shows and reality shows only because if they believe in the concept enough to want to produce it then they will handle the rest as far as landing the distribution which they probably already have the connections.
That is my best guess though, good luck

 

[KeithK]

Well, the concept is exceptionally narrow focus - I am going to aim it at CNBC (you know, the business news channel). Like I said, not your typical gameshow.

I think I'll just query them and include a synopsis outlining the concept, since I cannot seem to locate the "proper" way to do it. As far as I know, most of the people who come up with these concepts are insiders and it probably starts over coffee somewhere. I don't have that kind of access - yet. They'll either like it or they wont, I guess. But who would I direct my packet to? Programming Director(s)? How do I find out who they are?