To effectively make filmmakers take notice of your script, you have to have a strong pitch—so engaging they won’t be able to say no to you. Below, find several of the best script pitching ideas to help you create a compelling pitch for your project.

Know the filmmaker. If you are pitching to a director, go see every movie the director has made. If you are meeting with a producer, do the same thing. If a studio is involved, be aware of recent and legendary deals their representatives have made and who the key players are in their company. Demonstrating interest in their efforts and referencing their past successes will show that you have respect for their organization.

Involve the filmmaker. If you are asking them to commit to your script over all of the other scripts they will see that day, don’t be afraid to ask their opinion. They are the experts and you are the novice. Be careful not to sound like you need help with your project, but be receptive if they offer reasonable suggestions about how to improve your script. If they get the sense you’ll be easy to work with, it will make them all the more ready to cut a deal with you.

Be creative. There is no crime in being innovative with your pitch. Don’t do or say anything that could be potentially offensive, but have fun with your pitch (especially if you’re pitching a comedy). Dress in the manner of one of your characters (again, only if it’s appropriate) or compile a dream team list of actors that you’d like to see play the parts. Show the filmmaker that you’re serious, but that you also have a sense of humor. If you’ve written a story about people who pick apples for a living, bring cups of hot apple cider to the meeting to add a special touch. Think outside the box.

Have confidence in your talent. If you believe in your script, chances are someone else will too. Practice your pitch in the days leading up to it. Pretend that friends and family members are filmmakers and let them honestly evaluate you on your persuasiveness. Accept constructive criticism and work out the kinks in your plan before you meet the actual filmmakers. That way you’ll be better prepared to deliver your pitch and able to focus on the passion for your project rather than the semantics of selling it.