Robin Reetz on the importance of brevity and being polite. [Pitchfest, Vol. 2]
Oh yeah. #pitchfest is up and running. Missed Karla Walsh's advice? Check it here.
Robin Reetz.
What makes her a pitch expert?
I reached out to Robin after finding this article she wrote for the Academy of Handmade. She broke down the ways we fail in the pitch process- highlighting what NOT to do. After reading Robin's top-notch advice I knew I just had to have her as part of the #Pitchfest. With 8 years of editorial experience, Robin is no stranger to the pitch. [I mean just look at this list of her writing.]
What I think is super about Robin.
Robin has an eye for great style, both in fashion and in writing. She's written for some of my favorite publications, run her own bad ass creative business and has carved out her own path in this gig economy. On top of that, she went to Savannah College of Art and Design. Which basically means she's all around amazing. I'm excited to meet Robin eventually, but until then, I'm her internet fan (not in a creepy way, obvs.)
Where can we find Robin on the internet?
Her blog: secondfloorflat.com
Her personal site: RobinReetz.com
@robinreetz on Insta
@reetzrobin on Twitter
How do you describe your job?
I've spent my career working on all sides of the editorial world – from publishing to e-commerce and marketing, in the fashion, home, and lifestyle categories. Now, I'm now an E-Commerce Editor at Barneys New York and blog about independent design (and other things) on the side.
What do you like most about your gig?
There's something that I find so enjoyable about taking ordinary words and reworking them to get a point across in a way that's beautiful and interesting. It's almost like solving a puzzle, and though it drives me crazy, I love that you can never fully be done with a piece of writing or anything for that matter – there's always something that could be rethought or changed.
What's the toughest part of your gig?
Any writer knows the pain that comes with a blank page. Trying to get a piece of writing started can be the worst, especially if you're feeling uninspired. There's just something about that blank page that can feel so paralyzing.
Now let's talk about the pitch...
Robin's definition of sales.
The best pitch you ever sent included this super thing:
Politeness! Regardless of how great your brand of product is, no one will buy what you're selling if you don't show a little respect. Others might disagree, but to me, being nice always wins.
The best pitch you ever received included this super thing:
Succinct copy. Get to the point – tell me what it is, what you want, and what you need from me. If you're pitching someone an idea or asking a favor, you should be respectful of their time by being brief with your pitch.
What makes a total pitch?
When it's coming from someone who knows what they're talking about, has done their research and knows something about you. It's always a good idea to know your audience.
How do you craft a personal pitch?
Ask a few friends or family members what they think makes you different, interesting, or valuable, and go from there. It can be hard to see yourself clearly, so talk to those close to you first and find out what they think sets you apart.
Top secret tip for a pitching beginner?
Follow-up is key! Follow-up regularly, but don't be pushy. Be polite, and prepare yourself for rejection. Don't take anything too personally -- because it really, truly never is.
What are your favorite resources on the internet?
There are so many, but I love Sight Unseen for visual inspiration, Digiday and Glossy for digital news, OKREAL for the inspiration and community vibe, as well as Grammar Girl and Thesaurus.com, which are great companions for any writer.
