Dave Shelton put it succinctly: “Always be true to yourself and write what you love. Stick to your guns and have a good time with it.”
Stay Committed. Matt Lohr suggested you ask yourself, “If no one picked me, how would I get to the finish line. Answer that and then you’re free.”
Callen put it like this: “If you do it long enough someone will come along and pay you.”
Geoffrey Thorne was more specific: “Finish it. Put it on the market and start writing the next one. The job of the gatekeeper is to say ‘no.’ Your job is not to care. Keep on writing.”
Don’t Be the Naked Schmooze. Everyone agreed that the TV-movie business was about who you know. But, given that, don’t just run up to people, 
pay them some compliments, and then ask them to read your screenplay. Make friends and eventually people will ask you what you’re working on and you’ll have an opportunity to pitch a project.
Easton cautioned, “You always want to have something to show. Don’t go up with just a pitch; have a pitch, some pages, and graphics. Don’t be superficial.”
Zicree suggested exploring alternatives to just asking people to read your screenplay. “Create a concept video or a trailer for your film. When people see you are producing something they will get excited about your project.”
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Article comments
1 - Emily Wright
Interesting and informative post, Leo, especially the last section, "Don't be the naked schmooze." Still and all, I would have enjoyed hearing each panelist's account of how and where they took their first big step and what amount of chutzpah pushed them on their way. ~ Emily
"The only thing that stands between a man and what he wants from life is often merely the will to try it and the faith to believe that it is possible." - David Viscott
2 - LeoOfMars
Thanks, Emily. I appreciate your comments.
3 - Ian
Isn't this all common sense though? I find that I've read the same advice from others. I was hoping for something a little different. Better get back to writing now.