Thread by @everythingloria

Professional etiquette: A THREAD
I no longer have time for coffees so I talk to young writers on the phone on my way to meetings. I'm noticing again and again a few things. I want to share them so that you don't do them.

First, know this, someone giving you their time...even 5 min is HUGE. That's 5 min that they don't get to listen to an awesome song or a podcast or check in with a friend. So, if you get to talk to an industry "pro" be prepared. Have your questions ready. DO NOT WASTE THEIR TIME.

DO NOT ASK THEM FOR A JOB. I can't believe the total strangers that ask me for a job. Assuming I have one. Assuming that there isn't a list of people I want to help out before the stranger on the phone. Do NOT put them in a position where they feel uncomfortable.

Don't make them the asshole. They are giving you their time. Have your questions. LISTEN. Have follow-ups and then at the end you can say "If there is ever anything you might have available I'd love to throw my hat in the ring."

That's not asking for a job. That's saying "Maybe one day you'll have a need and maybe I can fulfill that need so I'd love to be considered to fill that need should it be appropriate."

Then thank them. Don't take much of their time. Take the temperature on the phone. Be mindful of their time. Quick. Grateful. Warm follow up note to remind them who you are and that is it.

I can't speak for all showrunners but in general, let me tell you what not to ask me. 1. I will not read your script. I read for a living. It takes me a long time. It's work. I have no time to read your script and it's a BIG ASK. Don't ask it.

If I'm hiring then your agent can submit you. That's the way to do it. Don't give me your headshot. I'm not currently casting. We don't do a lot of casting but when we do your agent can submit you to our casting director.

I have a lot of projects that I wish I had time to do. So, while it is very flattering that you want me to be your partner on a project, I am busy with my projects. Don't find my email and send me your projects. Don't make me the asshole.

Things I will do. I'll tweet answers to your questions. I am in the process of figuring out how to do a Hollywood 101 class to distribute for free. I'm gonna find a way to do that for y'all. I'll give high fives anytime anywhere.

Happy to take a picture with you, or say hi to your mom on facetime. Happy to do that.

This job is a lot of work. Some of us are trying to build equity and inclusion. But we also have a full-time job to do. So when we do anything other than our full-time job...just say thank you.

Thank you.