How to Prepare for Your Presentation
During their studies, our students present two of their own projects: one focused on non-fiction and one from the world of fiction. They participate in many pitching sessions throughout the year, culminating in a major presentation. Here’s how to prepare for it.
Essential Preparation
First and foremost, don’t underestimate the importance of developing your topic thoroughly. The committee members can easily distinguish between a project that has been worked on all year and one that was rushed at the last minute. Your presentation is the culmination of a year’s work. Be clear about the structure of your pitch from the start.
We recommend beginning with a story or personal anecdote to capture the judges’ attention. The first slide of your presentation should include the title of your pitch, logline, genre, number of episodes and their length, the broadcaster you are pitching to, and the target audience for your show. Consider the schedules of networks like TV Nova, Markíza, and VOYO’s selection of shows to ensure your pitch aligns with the right broadcaster.
Introducing Your Characters
Summarize your story in a few sentences and clearly explain the structure of each episode. Focus on key elements, plots, and dramatic moments. If you’re presenting a nonfiction theme, introduce your host; for fiction, show your ideal cast. Explain the relationships between the host and participants or between characters.
If your show is in the reality TV genre, define the archetypes you need in your contestants. You can also outline your casting process or even show a video of casting calls or rounds that have already taken place, as students have done in previous years.
From Creativity to Analysis
Next, dive into the data. Revisit your target audience and explain why you chose this demographic. How is your show relevant to them? Provide references from similar shows and programs. Make a strong case, backed by numbers.
Based on your references, present the visual style you envision. Create a mood board using photos, videos, or AI graphics. For example, a CME Content Academy student once presented an AI-designed studio for a game show.
Budgeting and Marketing
Discuss marketing, product placement, and budget next. Identify product placement opportunities and outline how you plan to attract an audience. Suggest merchandising ideas – there are no limits to your imagination. Finally, cover your budget and timeline. Plan the episodes and the season, detailing the time required for pre-production, production, and post-production. Highlight any potential issues that need timely resolution.
Seeking Guidance
If you’re unsure about any step, don’t hesitate to contact your mentor. Students typically have 15 minutes to present, followed by a 15-minute discussion. The judges assess presentation skills, the format’s suitability for channels, and the work done.
Remember, there is a friendly environment during these sessions, and most judges are already familiar with your project from previous pitches. Show who you are and your potential. Good luck, and we look forward to seeing your projects!
CME Content Academy, a project of TV Nova and TV Markiza, provides practical training alongside theoretical lectures at the Television Institute. The aim is to educate the next generation of TV professionals and enable them to work with these leading TV companies.
-Kristina Sverkunová