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How (Not!) to Pitch to Commissioners: Unlocking the Art of Persuasion in the Screen Industry

A spotlighted presenter pitching to a group of executives

For screen creatives, the art of pitching is a unique blend of excitement and anxiety. Crafting a story, nurturing it with your vision, and putting it forward for evaluation can feel like standing on a high wire with no safety net. This is especially true when pitching to commissioners—the gatekeepers who decide whether a project gets green-lit or set aside. In an industry where the stakes are often high, mastering the pitch is essential. After all, being able to pitch with confidence, clarity, and persuasion can be the difference between a project coming to life or staying a dream.


Pitching is not just about presenting an idea; it’s about understanding who you’re pitching to, tailoring your approach, and making your concept resonate with the person (or team!) across the table. One of the most crucial steps is identifying the right broadcaster, platform, or network that aligns with your project. Every commissioner has their specific tastes, and each network or platform has its unique audience and goals. Knowing who will appreciate your idea—and where it will thrive—requires thoughtful research and strategic targeting.


Here are some critical elements that can make or break your pitching journey:


Choosing the Right Broadcaster or Platform for Your Project

With so many platforms and broadcasters available, understanding where your project best fits is essential. A pitch is more likely to resonate when presented to a platform or broadcaster that aligns with its vision, genre, or audience. Tailoring your choice shows industry insight and raises your chances of capturing a decision-maker’s attention.


Knowing Exactly Who to Send Your Pitch To

One challenge many screen creatives face is determining who precisely to approach for a pitch. Cold emails or phone calls may seem intimidating, but they can sometimes be a great way to connect with key people—especially if you approach with professionalism. Identifying the correct contact can transform your pitch from a random submission to a well-received proposal.


Presenting Your Pitch Confidently and Reading the Room

When you finally secure a meeting, it’s vital to make an impact. Confidence, clear articulation, and adaptability are your best tools. Observing body language, gauging interest, and responding in real-time to questions or feedback are all parts of “reading the room” effectively. This skill can make the difference between a commissioner mentally approving your project or tuning out.


Developing these pitching skills can enhance your career and amplify your network—especially in a world where media networking and connections are crucial for growth. Whether you’re presenting your next big idea or connecting with key industry figures, strengthening your pitch strategy will ensure you’re fully prepared when the opportunity arises.


Join our workshop with our very own, Denise Eriksen!


On Saturday, 9th November from 10am to 11:30am AEDT, join MMA’s very own Denise Eriksen for an enlightening online workshop, How (Not!) to Pitch to Commissioners. This is a must-attend workshop for anyone developing film and TV projects who dreads pitching to commissioners—or simply wants to hone their pitching skills for success.


Meet the Speaker:

Denise for the how (Not!) to Pitch to Commissioners

Denise Eriksen has a deep passion for television and creative content across all platforms, and her extensive career has allowed her to explore every corner of the industry. She’s an avid viewer, with tastes ranging from high-end dramas and documentaries to factual and reality programming.


With a background as a journalist, producer, and executive producer, Denise has worked internationally and held influential roles such as Head of Factual and Head of Current Affairs at the ABC, as well as Head of Production and Development at SBS. Among her career highlights are creating beloved shows, launching careers, and bringing Australia’s own Eurovision broadcasts to SBS, all while ensuring audiences are both educated and entertained.


Registrations are still open! Secure your spot here.


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