I may have covered this before, but let's revisit this topic. Follow #TenThingsAboutAgents to collect them all!
1. If you want to get a traditional publishing deal, chances are you'll need an agent to represent you. Most publishers don't deal with unrepresented authors - and the ones that do don't always have the author's best interests at heart. #TenThingsAboutAgents
2. Agents are the gatekeepers of traditional publishing. They perform a number of important roles, including quality control; liaising between publishers and authors; handling foreign and media rights; drawing up contracts; negotiating fees. #TenThingsAboutAgents
3. They perform the dual role of vouching for their author's commercial appeal with a potential publisher, and looking out for their author's career, including protecting them from exploitation, and getting them the best possible publishing deal. #TenThingsAboutAgents
4. Agents take a percentage - usually between 10% and 20% of any money you earn from a publishing contract. You may feel that this isn't worth it, and that you can easily represent yourself. It is; and you can't. #TenThingsAboutAgents
5. Not all agents are the same. Some are solo operators; others may be attached to an agency. Which agent you choose to approach depends on you; but it's an important relationship for any author, and you need to get it right. #TenThingsAboutAgents
6. When thinking of submitting a mansucript, first check out the agent's submission guidelines. Follow them precisely. You're not going to make a good impression if you can't even do the basics. #TenThingsAboutAgents
7. Find out who they represent. Some agents specialize in certain genres; some agents don't accept unsollicited manuscripts. Make sure that you're not wasting your time (and theirs) by sending them a fantasy novel when they specialize in literary fiction. #TenThingsAboutAgents
8. You can find out most of this online; or you can find details (including contact details) in The Writer's and Artist's Yearbook. #TenThingsAboutAgents
9. Most reputable agents are members of a professional organization (eg, the Association of Authors' Agents.) And if they charge reading fees, postage or similar, avoid them. A reputable agent would never do this. #TenThingsAboutAgents
10. Agents are very busy. Don't expect a reply straightaway. And if you're rejected, just thank them politely and move on. Don't argue, threaten or whinge on social media. It's a small world, and if you're a dick, everyone in the business will know. #TenThingsAboutAgents
Last word: however keen you are, don't just go with the first agent who offers to represent you. Meet up with them, and make sure you can work together. You need to believe your agent believes in you, understands you and is on your side. #TenThingsAboutAgents
