How to Get a Literary Agent

Writing a novel can be a daunting task.  But finding a literary agent to represent your book can be even more difficult.  And not just any agent will do.  A skilled agent is critical to the sale of your novel to a mainstream publisher. 

Many publishers won’t accept a manuscript submission directly from an author.  This is especially true of the bigger publishing houses.  Keep in mind that mainstream publishers regularly receive hundreds of manuscripts every day.  Publishers count on the agent to have read the manuscript carefully before submitting it to them.  This is a trusted partnership.  Publishers need agents to offer books that are suitable for publication, saving them time and money.

To get a legitimate agent you must have a completed manuscript that is fully edited.  You must also have a talent for writing and a strong determination.  If you are unsure of your manuscript, join a writer’s critique group.  Listen carefully for any helpful feedback. You may also want to hire a professional editor to review your work.   

When I was searching for an agent, I found email submission to be the quickest and the easiest. Not to mention the cheapest form of submission.  After I carefully made a list of well known, trustworthy agents, I made it a goal to query at least twenty every day.

Be sure to read the agents particular guidelines carefully. Try to submit to agents that request a few sample pages.  I found more positive responses in the agents willing to judge my novel by my writing, rather than just my query letter.  Make sure what you submit is polished to perfection.  If rejected, move on.  Some agents may be only looking for a particular genre at the time, or overloaded with the clients they already have. There are many reasons for rejections.  

Write down any comments or feedback you get from agents you’ve submitted to.  I use a spiral notebook and divide each page into columns.  I write down the date, the agent queried and what was submitted.  I also write down any feedback or comments received.

Check your email often for responses.  If an agent requests sample chapters have it ready to send immediately.  Good luck in your search.   Never take a rejection personal.  And never give up.  It may take some time to land an agent.  But a good agent is worth the wait.