The next step - acquiring an Agent

A reader recently told us Scribble Chicks that she has a finished manuscript...now what? Hence our series of topics this week. Erynn posted on writing that great proposal, and BJ posted on the pros and cons of attending a conference.

My topic for you today is AGENTS. What the pros and cons of having an agent? Is it really necessary? How does one go about obtaining an agent?

These are all questions new writers have, and important ones to cover. I hope to help clear up a bit of the fog surrounding the topic (pardon the cliche!) If you have any more questions/comments, please post them in the comment section. Remember, this entire blog is ultimately for YOU, the reader. =)

First of all, let me say that in today's industry, having an agent can make all the difference. Most, not all, but most traditional publishers don't accept submissions unless they are from an agent. A few houses still do, such as Steeple Hill and Barbour, but majority do not. Also, having an agent when submitting even to those two houses still is a benefit, because it gives your work that extra boost to the top of the pile. Someone has already "vouched" for it, so the editor is taking less of a "wasting my time" risk. So you essentially cut your waiting for a response time in half or more. Sounds good, huh?

(Now, if you're wanting to pursue a small POD press like Desert Breeze or White Rose or if you are planning to self-pub, an agent is not necessary. There is no advance in those situations, no monetary details to negotiate, etc. It's more cut and dried...wow, how many cliches can I use in one blog post?!?!)

Here's a quick interview and picture with my agent, Tamela Hancock Murray with Hartline Literary. Tamela and I have been a team since September of 2007, and she's been not only a professional ally but a cheerleader and friend. I'm so blessed God brought us together. (pic taken at the ACFW 2009 conference awards banquet last September)

1. What is your favorite part about being an agent?

My favorite part is calling authors to tell them a publisher has offered a contract! I find great excitement in bringing worthy authors to publishers. I love being part of bringing new books to readers, adding to the number of quality choices in reading available everywhere.

2. As an agent, what is a quick word of advice you can give aspiring authors?

Learn as much as possible about your dream market. Then write a story that will be a logical fit for that market, yet be unique enough to get the editor's attention. Yes, it's a tall order, but not impossible. The more familiar you are with the market, the easier it will be for you to write a great book and back it up with a stellar proposal.

3. Do you have a life motto Bible-verse?

At this point in time, the verse resonating with me most is: Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. Matthew 10:16This verse didn't speak to me as strongly when I was younger as it does today, probably because I knew I wasn't wise. Now that I am blessed to know many more people both professionally and personally, I strive to be wise and considerate in my dealings. At no time do I seek to harm another person. The following prayer, along with the Lord's prayer, keeps me grounded every day: Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on me, a sinner.

4. What would you say is the biggest benefit of an author obtaining an agent?

The agent is your gateway to publishers. While some excellent publishers will work with authors directly, the agent can open many more doors. Editors pay attention to agented submissions because they know the agent has screened them already and has formed the opinion that the work in question is suitable for the publisher. Editors' time is valuable, and they appreciate the work an agent does even though they can't accept every manuscript.

5. What are your thoughts about the current state of the book publishing industry?

I think the Lord is blessing CBA authors and publishers even during this recession, proving once again that He is more powerful than the world economy. I believe publishers are, rightfully, responding to the prospect of readers being in possession of less disposable income by being exceptionally careful about the books they select to be published. In response, writers must be more diligent than ever to present their very best to editors. To God be the glory for every new CBA book!

Here's Tamela's website and Hartline's website, if you're interested in pursuing them further.

So there's some words of wisdom from a trusted agent in the industry! Thank you, Tamela.

Moving on, I really can't think of any cons to having an agent on your side. They are your support, encourager, at times your editor. They are your motivation and your go-between for all those awkward moments that can arise between you and your editor. Unpleasant questions can be fielded in that way, and guess what? Agents do all this for a very small percentage of what you make!! If they don't sell your books, they don't make money. Period. If you're pursuing a parnership with an agent who is asking for ANY money from you upfront, run. Run far, and run fast. This is a scam artist, and they're everywhere. If you have any questions about the quality of an agent, especially those willing to represent Christian fiction, please ask us here on Scribble Chicks or visit Preditors & Editors. We'll shoot straight! (another cliche! ha.)

Okay, so we've established that agents are great to have and you really do need one if you're going to pursue traditional publishing. "Now what?" you ask. "How do I find one of this illusive creatures??"

First of all, you need to shop the market. SALLY STUARTS CHRISTIAN MARKET GUIDE is a great resource for compiling a list of agents suitable for your needs. You can even Google "CBA agentes" and find some hits. Be sure to check the fine print before submitting your proposal that Erynn talked about on Monday - nothing is a bigger turn off to an agent than your not following their guidelines. Some agents want handwritten proposals, other emails. Some prefer query letters only, others want a full proposal. Some agents represent Christian fiction, others don't. Do your homework before diving in, or you'll end up embarrased or with a strike against you from the beginning.

You've probably heard it said "A bad agent is worse than no agent". This is true. Before targeting an agent and especially before signing with an agent, research them. Ask fellow authors who their agents are and if they're happy with their relationship. If an agent hasn't made any sales in a long time, it's probably not a good idea to go with them. An agent who isn't going to be aggressive on your behalf is a waste of your time. But on the other hand, an agent who is overly aggressive or who has a bad reputation in the industry isn't going to help you much either. At the 2009 conference, I asked a trusted agent in the industry, who used to be an editor at a large traditional house, about this very thing on behalf of a friend. He said that he remembers a time when, during a committe meeting years ago, the board opted to turn down a book they really were excited about because they didn't want to work with that particular agent again - that's how bad this agent was.

So be careful, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Us SCRIBBLE CHICKS will be happy to help you if you have questions about particular agents. Email any of us privately. My email is betsystamant@yahoo.com.

Finally, I'd like to encourage you to join the ACFW - American Christian Fiction Writers. This is a wealth of information available at your fingertips, for a low annual fee. I've been a member for what feels like forever now, and its amazing. The networking opportunities, the friendship, the support, the prayer back-up...more than worth it. So check out their website here: ACFW The ACFW also offers annual conferences where you get to schedule face-to-face meetings with agents and editors and pitch your stories. That is invaluable, and every agent/editor in the industry will back that up.

Any questions?

Don't be discouraged!! This is a big process and sometimes, it seems its just hard to land a quality agent as it is to get published. Both attempts take a ton of time and patience and prayer. Just do your best work and trust God with the timing. He'll see you through! =)