It’s tempting to say yes immediately, and many do, but not every agent is the right fit. I've been there a couple of times, and for whatever reason, it did not pan out. Here’s how to assess whether they’re not only excited about your book but also aligned with your long-term creative goals.
1. Do they represent books you admire?
Look at their client list. Do you see writers you respect? Books in the genre or style you write? If you can’t find any common ground between their list and your own ambitions, it might be a mismatch.
2. Do they have a track record in your genre?
Have they sold books like yours to good publishers? Are they breaking out debut authors or mainly representing established names? You want an agent who knows how to sell your kind of book.
3. How do they communicate?
Were they warm and engaged on the call? Do they explain things clearly? Do they ask about your goals, or only talk about what they can offer? If you feel steamrolled, that’s a red flag.
4. What’s their editorial style?
Some agents are hands-on and give extensive notes. Others do light editing or none at all. Ask them how they work. You need to know whether they’ll push your writing forward or simply act as a broker.
5. Are they career-minded or book-focused?
You want someone who’s not just excited about this book, but about you. Do they ask what you’re working on next? Do they seem invested in building something over time?
Bonus: What do their clients say?
If you're unsure, ask if you can speak to one of their authors. Most agents won’t mind. Hearing from someone on the inside can be revealing.
Saying yes to an agent is saying yes to a business partner. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and remember — you’re allowed to take your time.
No comments:
Post a Comment