We have been given fair warning. When an agent shows interest in your book, even going so far as to invite you to lunch to discuss it...don’t be a moron and insult them. I know this seems like obvious advice, but perhaps there are misconceptions about agents that might harm your perception of the agenting industry. For instance:
- “Female agents are only good at representing chick lit, romance, and the occasional literary novel. Oh, and maybe some YA.”
- “Male agents are allowed to represent spy thrillers, horror, science fiction, and fantasy, and maybe historical biographies.”
- “Older agents are going to represent my book better than a newer agent.”
- “If an agent doesn’t have their offices established in NYC, they obviously aren’t as legitimate as [Insert Big Name Agency Here].”
These are all mental pitfalls that some writers out there do hold. If you find one of these lurking around in your cranium, snatch it out, stomp on it, burn it, then scatter the ashes to the wind. (I’d recommend doing this in a private place, otherwise passersby might give you some funny looks.)
Now, there’s nothing wrong with have a “preference” in who you pursue as an agent, but never let stereotype or bias make you pass up submitting to someone who doesn’t fit your ideal. You never know who might become truly passionate about your book and be ready and willing to do all they can to help get it published and successful.
Are there any agent misconceptions you’ve had to shed as you’ve gone alone?
I see that smile.