How to Be a Literary Agent

Top literary agents get hundreds of queries each month from aspiring writers who are dreaming of being the next name on the "New York Times Bestseller List." To be a literary agent is considered a dream job by some. Mountains of manuscripts are vying for attention. There's opportunity for big money to be made. But how to start?

Instructions

1. Make sure your skills are up to par for the literary field. Journalism, grammar and different kinds of writing and editing classes are needed. Literary agents do more than just sell manuscripts to publishers. They can oversee the whole process of publishing a book: proofreading, editing, layout and cover design. This career choice requires specific skills and education.

2. Consider looking for a job working for a literary agency or some kind of publishing house. Even if it's an entry-level position working in the mail room or answering phones, you'll get some great experience and make some contacts. Part of success in this field can be who you know!

3. Sharpen your management skills. To oversee an entire book project, there is a lot of creative control involved. You need to be good at working with people individually. You could be responsible for everything from marketing to distribution to handling royalties.

4. Prepare to be patient. Take time to get to know the author you're working with. Be sensitive to their dreams. Set aside some time for guidance, encouragement and teaching when necessary. Great authors need great managers.

5. Learn to recognize a great book proposal and a great author. The two don't always come together. When you have a match, you could have a blockbuster!

6. Pick an area you would like to specialize in. Is your favorite genre fiction or non-fiction? Romantic comedy or sci-fi? Devote yourself to your favorite interests, your upcoming authors and your fellow colleagues in the literary field. With that combination, you can be a great literary agent and maybe even see your own dreams come true!