Learning how to get an agent is a big part of getting a novel published. A good agent can help an author cut through the slush pile that a publisher's acquisition editor must wade through and put that manuscript in the hands of the decision makers. Since agents specialize in certain genres and even with certain publishers, finding an agent requires some research and hard work.
Getting an Agent Starts with Locating One
Many agents are listed in various writer's forums and publisher manuals that are released annually. Agents are listed by name or agency, genres represented and contact information. Many online resources and guides are available for locating literary agencies as well, such as writer's groups and even the Web sites of the agents themselves. Word of mouth is another effective method for locating an agent, and, if you have friends and associates who have been published, check out the agency they've used. With a referral, an agent might be tempted to spend more time reading your query.
Narrow The Field
Once you've narrowed down the list of agents to several that meet your criteria, perform research on each one. Look up their Web sites, and make notes on the best way to approach them. Submission guidelines vary from agent to agent-some want the first three chapters of your work, while others want a well-crafted query letter. Follow each submission requirement to the letter. It's fine to query a few agents at a time, as long as you make a note of it in your query letter.
Hold A Meeting
Once your submission is sent off to an agent, you'll either get a rejection or an invitation to discuss the project further. Some agents give detailed rejections, specifying areas of the work that may need more revision. Others may simply send out a basic form letter with no personalized comments.
If the agent is interested, she will contact you via phone and ask you more questions about the work. Because agents work on commission, they will represent only authors and projects they believe will sell. An agent spends her time getting to know the right people at publishing houses so that she can shop out manuscripts that best fit that publisher's style. The agent may ask that you run your manuscript through a professional editor before submission. When you and your agent agree to the terms of representation, you'll sign a contract and work with the agent to make the manuscript the best it can be. If your first book is a success, you can bet the agent will happily represent you for future projects.
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