Any Agent You Can Get Is A Good Agent
I used to think that if I could just get anyone to agree to represent me, that I wouldn't even hesitate before saying yes. But I've come to realize that agents come in different "sizes" just like writers.
The main things I'm looking for in an agent are:
#1 Someone who LOVES my book. Someone who's as passionate about my book as I am.
#2 Someone who is going to be in this with me for the long haul.
#1 is one of the reasons that I care less now if I get feedback on my rejections. If you don't love my book, fine, I get that. But I'm not going to change my book based on the feedback of someone who's not hoping to represent it.
#2 is why I've been more discerning about whom I send my work to. It seems like there are some agents out there who are just doing this as a part time gig while their own writing careers take off. That's fine, I don't have a problem with it, but it's just not for me. For one thing, I think the agents skill sets and the writers skill sets are so different, it makes me wonder how anyone can do both well. I'm sure some people can, but that's not what I'm looking for.
So what do you think? What things do you look for in an agent? Are there any characteristics that would make you turn down an agent, even if they were the only one to make you an offer?
Good thoughts! You do have to stand for yourself b/c who else will? I looked for "patterns" in my rejections b/f I changed anything. Aslo, you want to be on the same page as your agent with revision ideas and passion for the story!
ReplyDeleteI have friends who've had bad agents, and it really is true: You're better off with no agent than a bad one.
ReplyDeleteI've written my list of 35 and that's that. If they don't love my book, oh well, I guess I have to write another. My list of perequisites for an agent are long. But first is they must have been in the business of books for at least 15 years. That way I know they won't be some fly-by-night until they get an editor's job.
ReplyDeleteYou're not alone. I want those things too. Oh, and I'd add a #3: An agent who can sell the darn thing!
ReplyDeleteIf an agent asks you for money upfront--RUN!
ReplyDeleteAn agent will usually only agree to represent you if they're enthusiastic about your ms.
That's a good starting point! I agree with Lydia's #3. I heard that one happens less often than most realize. Never queried agents, only publishers though.
ReplyDeleteGosh - I'm not even in the querying stages but these things are great things to want in an agent! Take care
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At first, I thought the same thing, too; accept the first agent who offers. But after reading some posts about people who ended up in some bad situations, I know there's a lot more to consider.
ReplyDeleteI've been feeling this way lately too. If the agent doesn't LOVE my writing, it's not worth it. I can revise, sure, but I won't bend over backwards for someone who doesn't at least see the potential.
ReplyDeleteFinding an agent who's a good fit for you and your book is very important in the long run. Just someone to represent you isn't enough, I agree.
ReplyDeleteJai
I think the biggest thing is finding someone who loves your book. If they don't love your writing, I think it's an uphill battle.
ReplyDeleteI'm completely with you. If being selective about agents means a few more rejection notices? I'm okay with that.
ReplyDeleteMelissa - I've had the "bad" agent situation. It's good to have someone who believes in your novel and you. It's also good to have someone who you can talk too. Lack of communication drives me crazy. =D
ReplyDeleteI definitely want an agent who's going to represent ME, and not only my first book. And yes, I agree that the agent has to love the book to be able to represent it properly. It would be hard to work with an agent who didn't "get" my writing.
ReplyDeleteHalf a year ago I would have been happy with whatever agent I could get (which I couldn't get, actually), but I'm so much more mature as a writer now ;)
I'm with you, Tessa. A year ago, I would have accepted any agent before they even got the offer out of their mouth. Now, though, as I wrap up my YA, my queries will be more focused. This time, I will still accept the first agent that offers--simply because I will have researched them in advance and wouldn't have queried them in the first place if I didn't think we were a good fit.
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