Christine Kelly Reads and Writes

Being in the query trenches is brutal. There is no sugar coating it. You are grueling over a piece of art that you put out into the world to get passed on over and over again. That’s the reality of it.

Yet, there is the hope that one person will like your manuscript enough to offer to representation! That’s awesome! But because the trenches are so grueling many authors lose sight of finding a partner, instead just finding someone. And finding any ol’ agent isn’t always the best course to take.

So here are a few things you should look at and look for when searching for an agent.

1. Look at their manuscript wishlist to be sure they’re even looking for the genre you write. That’s the first way to get a pass is to submit to someone that doesn’t even represent what you write.
2. Look at the agent’s sales. It’s not a red flag if they don’t have any or many, it takes a LONG time for agents to get a sale. But if they have them, be sure they are to places you would like to sell your book to. Again, many times it can be out of the agents control, but it worth noting.
3. Look at their agency. Are there other reputable agents there? Do they have foreign or film rights people listed on their website or as deals? Check out writersbeware.com or other whisper networks.
4. Finally, another reason to have writing friends– ask people! After The Call you will (at least should) have the chance to chat with the agents other authors. Come prepared with questions already in mind that are important to you to be sure you get the answers you need from the other authors.

There are a TON of amazing agents out there. But there are just a few bad actors sprinkled in. Be sure you’re not setting yourself up to accept an offer from someone you don’t want to work with. My biggest piece of advice is to only query someone you would like to work with. If they pass this time (or if the book dies in the trench), you can persist and write another book to query. Agents are open to seeing your work again!