Literary Agent Job Description

Literary agents represent authors in the publishing world. Authors rely on literary agents to manage the business aspect of publishing for them. Agents negotiate contracts regarding publishing rights, advances and royalties. They represent authors to book publishers and other companies that may be interested in publishing an author's work.

General Function

Literary agents read and review a large number of manuscripts to decide which authors to represent. Then they send out proposals and manuscripts of the authors' works to acquisitions editors. Proposals include a statement of the book genre, target audience, any previously published books, and literary awards or other significant literary achievements, as well as a two-page synopsis designed to hook the acquisitions editors.

Editorial Advice

Literary agents often start their careers as editors or assistant editors in book or magazine publishing, so they are able to provide solid editorial advice for authors as agents. They may suggest edits that can improve the manuscripts before marketing. They also communicate with authors about any significant changes publishers request in manuscripts.

Networking

Networking and building up contact lists is a large part of a literary agent's job. Agents often attend receptions, conventions, parties, and other business and social functions.

Business Aspects

Literary agents negotiate deals with publishers, handle contract disputes, obtain author payments from publishers, and review royalty statements for accuracy.

Additional Tasks

Agents also work to obtain the best reprint deals from paperback publishers, from magazines for excerpts, and from movie producers for specific rights.

Considerations

Literary agents are responsible for making sure authors deliver as promised, staying in close contact if they fall behind schedule.