Watch other dramedies. While you certainly don't want to copy or "borrow" ideas from other programs, you need to get a handle on the existing material that will be familiar to the executives you're going to pitch. In order to successfully describe your show, you need to know what is has in common with dramedy hits of the past and present. Dedicate a weekend or more to this research.
Determine the dominant element of your show. In every dramedy, one ingredient wins out over the other. Your show is probably either a bit more on the comedic or dramatic side. Figuring this out will impact everything, including the length of the show. A drama usually lasts for an hour, but a sitcom will only be given a half-hour time slot.
Write a show synopsis that runs two to three paragraphs. Keep the paragraphs concise and informative, focusing on the entire story arc of the project. Include any important plot developments and the most important side stories.
Come up with a tag line. One sentence that describes the project at its best is necessary. You can take a couple of sentences if you must. However, getting it into a concise, marketable concept is your best shot at striking a deal. That can set imaginations wild about what is possible with your show.
Start the pitch meeting with a friendly introduction. You never want to go into a pitch meeting with an uptight expression. Let the businessmen know that you are fun, easygoing and a joy to work with. Nobody wants to commit to spending months of their lives with a jerk. Lead by your personality. Stay professional, of course, but do it with friendliness.
Jump right in by stating your tag line. Do this immediately after introductions have been made and all are seated. Then go on to talk about your synopsis.
Compare your show to others that are out there. Perhaps you want to say it's "Cheers" meets "Dawson's Creek." You could also describe your show as an amalgam of two current movies; cite anything that may leave a favorable impression when it comes to marketability. Have this element of the pitch thought out well in advance. This is not the time to improvise. The lasting impression of your show--and your shot at selling it--could depend on how you handle this part.
Present the executives with a copy of the pilot script. You should have the pilot and at least two other episodes written before you go to a pitch meeting. But only give the script of your pilot to those in the room, unless the rest of the series will differ significantly from the pilot. Generally, it should not: A pilot is filmed to sell the series itself. It should stay true to the series proposal if you aim to keep the network happy.
Ask if the executives have any questions. This is a risky step if you are not quick on your feet. If you don't have an immediate answer, dance your way around it by addressing something important about the show. Have two or three of these "answers" up your sleeve in case you need time to think of a real answer to the question.
Thank everyone for their time. Leave a good impression on everybody, from the president of the company to the assistant who offered you coffee while you waited.
Follow up with thank-yous by phone, email and postal mail. Space these messages out so they don't all arrive at once. Still, it's important to thank someone when he takes the time to hear your pitch.