Q: How do I find an agent?

Q: How do I find an agent?

There are myriad ways to find a literary agent—key, though, is finding the best fit for you.

Here are some of the more popular ways to find an agent:

1. You can search literary agents on QueryTracker (https://querytracker.net/).

2. Look up #MSWL (manuscript wish list) on Twitter, to see what agents are actively seeking.

3. Visit websites for literary agencies and get to know the agents featured on their site—they often post on their profiles which types of books they’re interested in, and whether they’re open to queries.

4. Read the acknowledgements pages of books in your genre/category. Authors often thank their agents, publishers and editors there.

5. Look up agents on social media platforms (Twitter, Instagram, etc.) to get a feel for their content and to see if you’re a good fit for the person behind the job role. If the agent feels like a good match for you, follow and engage—essentially, nurturing a relationship between you.

6. Writer conferences and book-related events are a great way to network and meet people. Some even offer the chance to pitch agents on the spot!

7. Often, agents are included in the judging panel for writing contests and pitching challenges. It’s a great way to catch their eye, and valuable even just for feedback on your work.

8. Be open to working with new agents who are eager to build their list and may be able to give you more personal attention.

9. Know what kind of agent you need or want—is it a marketing, deal-making star, or someone who can be a creative partner for you, someone with an editorial eye who can really help you take your book to the next level? This might be a question to ask and explore before you sign the dotted line.

10. Use what you’ve learned about the agent and the relationship you’ve established to inform your query letter.

Got a question about book writing, publishing or marketing? Write me and let me know!