What makes a good literary agent?
Your agent MUST know their way around a book contract. A good agent understands where to ask for more money or rights, and knows if their client is getting the best deal possible. (If an agent passes you a publisher’s boilerplate contract to sign with no changes, you may be in big trouble.)
When should you follow up with a literary agent?
If you receive an offer of representation, it’s customary to then follow up with all of the agents who are currently considering your manuscript, whether a partial or a full. Give them a reasonable timeframe (7-14 days) to get back to you so you don’t leave the agent who offered you representation hanging.
What does an agent do for a writer?
Literary agents are responsible for managing sales, contracts, publication, production (and reproduction), as well as maintaining good contacts in the writing and publishing industry, and knowledge of the current market and trends. They act as a middle person between authors and publishers to sell the author’s work.
Do you need a license to be a literary agent?
There are no licensing or specific requirements to being a literary agent. That’s why writers need to research the agents they query, ensuring the agents have experience and knowledge to back up their titles.
How do I get a literary agent?
How to get a literary agent in 5 steps
- Draw up a list of literary agents in your niche. Most agents are on the lookout for new authors to represent.
- Thoroughly research and evaluate each agent.
- Send a personalized query letter.
- Always follow up if you don’t hear anything.
- Don’t just say yes to the first agent.
Do you pay literary agents?
The good news is that literary agents charge absolutely nothing upfront. Literary agents charge commission. That is, for every $1000 they get you in advances or royalties or overseas sales or film rights, they will take their cut. If they earn nothing for you, they will charge nothing.
How do you follow up with a literary agent?
How to Successfully Follow-Up on Submissions
- Know the agent’s timeframe. Most agents will post expected response times on their websites.
- Stick to the email trail. The easiest way for an agent to remember you and your work is by responding in the original email trail.
- Just the facts, ma’am. Simple is best.
- Add a few perks.