Things You'll Need:
- Briefcases
- Address Books
- Copiers
- Postage Stamps
- Envelopes
- Portfolios
- Laptop Computer
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Step 1
Narrow down your search for an agent by finding one or more who specializes in your subject matter. For lists of agents and their specialties, consult "Guide to Literary Agents, 2000," "Writer's Guide to Book Editors, Publishers, and Literary Agents, 2000-2001" or the Association of Authors' Representatives Web site (aar-online.org).
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Step 2
Research any similar books that the agency has published.
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Step 3
Check out the number of clients the agent represents, the percentage of new writers represented, recent sales and how the agency deals with such critical issues as contracts, advances and marketing.
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Step 4
Write a one-page query letter to the agent including your publishing history, education and relevant biographical information. (For example, if your book is a medical thriller and you are a doctor, mention your expertise.) Also include information that may catch the agent's attention: how you got his or her name and any associates or friends in common.
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Step 5
Make sure your query is succinct, professional and error-free.
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Step 6
Include a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE).
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Step 7
Wait six weeks to call and ask about the status of your query. An accomplished agent receives up to 1,000 queries each month, so be patient.
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Step 8
Be prepared to follow up with an outline and the first three chapters of your book if an agent is interested.









Comments
russlhenley said
on 7/1/2009 Go to Agent Query on the net for the right info.
filmmack said
on 5/31/2009 Great article!
cbethp said
on 5/8/2009 Don't ever call to check on the status of a query! Doing so will very quickly brand you as an amateur. Instead, send a polite email follow-up. Also make sure you check the agent's stated response time--some respond within 6 weeks, while others ask for more time.
dcole said
on 3/12/2009 Useful tips, thank you!
rspears01 said
on 3/10/2009 oops tried to reccommend and couldn't? sorry! I'm new here!