Monday, November 29, 2010

Melissa's Myths for Mondays

You Have to Have a Blog to Get an Agent


I heard at a conference that you needed a blog and a web site plus faceblook and twitter to get an agent, so I got on the bandwagon and started my blog. As I said last week, I’ve found this very beneficial, but I don’t think it’s going to get me an agent.

I hear mixed reviews about whether agents even look at blogs before deciding to offer representation. I think one of the most comprehensive posts I’ve seen on the subject was on Mary Cole’s blog: http://kidlit.com/2010/07/21/should-unpublished-writers-blog/

What about you. How much weight do you think blogs have in the publishing world?

9 comments:

  1. I don't think blogs carry any weight at all. Sure most agents seem to want you to have one but I think its just about knowing how to handle social media. I don't think it makes any difference in sales figures or anything like that.

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  2. I hit the wrong key and my post disappeared, so sorry if you receive two. No, a blog carries no weight, but fellow bloggers can cheer you on your way towards your goal. Hugs..

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  3. Yeah, like Carole said before publishing it the camaraderie of fellow writers that is beneficial. Some of the “big” published writers don’t have blogs or tweet.

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  4. I don't know if blogging would get anyone an agent but I think that it's a good thing to do anyway as a way to connect with other writers and readers. Also, it's something that keeps a writers mind engaged and thinking about how to be entertaining and fresh each post.

    Jai

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  5. Nah, I think the blog is for fun ... but if you have a great platform it might give you brownie points with an agent. I think a website helps though -- I set up mine because two editors encouraged me to do so ... and since I'm not techy, it took me six months to finally listen and do it. Now I'm glad I did it. It serves as an online CV, a place for me to gather useful links, and a little bit of fun as well.

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  6. Personally I think a blog is a fun thing to have and if it gets noticed by those willing to pay money for it then why not?? I'd hate for writers to start blogging in the hope that it'll get them a publishing deal though - I think that's like hoping to win the lottery! But again - you may be the one in a million trillion so you never know!! Thanks for the link! take care
    x

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  7. I don't think not having a blog would cause an agent to reject you, but I see a blog as a way of getting to know others in the writing community. I never really thought about it in terms of snagging an agent.

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  8. I hope not, as I've been sorely neglecting my blog lately! :)

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  9. I wouldn't say it's a need to get an agent, but it's a way to connect with your peers. It's always a good way to get advice and get your name out there. I would say it's the last place an agent would look.

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