How to Hire an Agent for Book Publishing
Most traditional book publishing companies do not allow direct contact between themselves and the unsigned author. This job is left to the literary agent. Thus, in order to get your manuscript published, you usually need to hire a literary agent first.
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Instructions
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Find a reputable agent. A reputable agent is one that has published clients with the publishing houses that you are trying to solicit. Reputable agents will not charge you fees upfront. In fact, the literary agent gets his fee when the publisher pays you. Look in the Resources Section for agent search databases, such as the Association of Author's Representatives (AAR), or pred-ed.com will guide you to several potential agents.
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Follow the agent's submissions guidelines. Some only accept e-mail submissions, while others prefer the manuscript sent by regular mail. The submission guidelines will tell you what to put in your query. Some even give examples of what they feel is a great query and synopsis.
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Review your materials for typos and grammatical errors. Such small mistakes can stand between you and your publishing dream.
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Include an SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) to get your manuscript and/or a response back. Follow the agent's instructions on the SASE if they are available.
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Negotiate carefully. Upon receiving a positive response to your query, you will be contacted by the agent about goals for the book. Negotiate carefully, because these goals will form the basis for your contract with this agent. If the negotiated terms are not to your liking, remember that you can always take your book to another agent.
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Review the contract carefully. When you reach a consensus on your goals for the book, next comes the contract for services. Read this document carefully, taking it to an attorney for advice. Never sign a contract without first reading and understanding all conditions.
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Tips & Warnings
Look for an agent that represents your book's genre.
Add your resume if you feel that it can help illustrate your writing experience.
Include the sales numbers for any previous works if they are favorable.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit business agent image by Dmitri MIkitenko from Fotolia.com
