Telesale Experience

The last night of Telesale 2008 is tonight, and for me it has been a great learning experience.  Being a part of the producing team has been a privilege and something I'll never forget. 

I was excited, and flattered really, when I was asked if I was interested in being a part of the team.  But my excitement also turned into nervousness earlier this week when I realised that I would actually help to write something for live television.  The thought of someone reading my words over the air was kind of intimidating. 

But there were two things that I learned: 

First, understanding how writing integrates with the technical aspect of the production has enormous benefits with any writing you do.  If you are separated from the physical reality of production then your writing will be deficient.  A lot of different elements go into making a good script sound natural and entertaining while operating within time limits in a practical way.

Second, challenges can increase your writing skills.  I don't want to sound pretentious and say that my skills are tremendously better because of Telesale, but I've definitely noticed a difference in the time it takes me to write and a more accurate ability to find a voice.

So don't be afraid to push yourself.  Find challenges that will force you to explore new ways of thinking and writing.