A set of rules for approaching agents and publishers exists for writers. I have read a few books on the subject but the books do not provide definitive answers, at least not the books I am reading. They seem to contradict one another and really don’t provide a clearly cut path for approaching this seemingly convoluted business of agency.
Here’s the problem. Many will suggest that approaching an agent should be done one at a time. They also suggest researching agents who have a particular interest in the aspiring writer’s style of writing. This would not be so bad except for the length of time that a writer must wait before receiving a response from a prospective agent, if he or she receives anything at all. Agents may take months to reply to a query letter! This is apparently due to the number of query letters they receive daily. What does that mean? It means that a query letter must be painstakingly written to stand out above the crowd. After all, writers should know how to write, right? Not so fast. A query letter is not easy for any writer to construct. It has elements of style, yes, but it should also consider marketing techniques. It is a one shot deal on a single page that lets the agent know who you are, what you have written, and the ever important answer to the question, does it have a snowball’s chance in hell for generating a profit?
Okay, so you have perused all of the magazines, read articles and books, and have now developed a short list of potential agents. That is great! There is yet another step and that is to determine if the agents are accepting query letters. For that, you must go to their respective websites and read what they are accepting. By the way, I was surprised to find a whole new layer that exists below the agents. These are the screeners that will determine what their boss or client (the agent) will read and what they will not read. So, your first level of resistance may actually occur before your query letter reaches the agent. Here is a tip that I’ve seen written a few times. Treat everyone with respect. When you call and a secretary answers the phone, it pays to treat that person with the same respect and deference that you would show to the agent. Why? That person may be the first cut. That is, a secretary can destroy your efforts by simply not forwarding your information to the desired target. Of course, I think this is a good rule for life in general.
To further complicate matters, the whole publishing business landscape is changing rapidly. So what is so different? Publishers are much more selective toward manuscripts that have a higher probability of success. Coupled with fewer publishers, this raises the bar for writing a compelling query letter and a quality manuscript. At the same time, there are many who are pursuing the self publishing path. Although I do not believe it is entirely warranted, many independents regard publishers with distrust and resentment. What is the result? I think prospective writers are less willing to accept the traditional protocol for sending out queries one at a time. I believe folks are submitting multiple query letters to multiple agents.
While some may disagree, I think it is better to approach agents one at a time but to follow up in two weeks on each submission. Furthermore, I think placing a time requirement on an agent can have a negative impact on the chances for publishing a first manuscript. It is a small red flag that may indicate that a writer is not in the right frame of mind to navigate the whole publishing process. It also takes away from the strength of the query letter itself. It is a distraction. The query letter should be very compelling and should stand on it’s own merits, not force the issue with a prospective agent.
Personally, I think it is better to provide a reasonable amount of time between submissions. Not all agents will respond within two weeks, but I think it is a reasonable length of time to wait before following up with a call. A follow up call (or e-mail ONLY if the agent says it is ok) should be very professional and courteous. Ask if the agent has received the letter. Also, ask if the agent requires additional information. If you are connected directly to the agent, ask if he or she liked the query letter and if there is any interest. If not, simply ask why but do not expect to change anyone’s mind at this point. You have the information you were looking for and you now have every right to pursue other agents.
Yes, it is a long process, but I think taking a cautious approach makes sense. Why? Because it may be an indication of the strength of your query. Think of it this way. If your query is not that compelling, do you really want to broadcast it to every agent that may have an interest in your manuscript? I think the answer is no. You would be much better off to approach agents one at a time and make note of feedback along the way. Stated differently, you have not burned all of your bridges to those agents who may be in the best position to help you. You can make adjustments along the way that will improve your chances in the long run. Besides, submitting a query letter can offer a little closer access to the agent. Use the time wisely. Find out a little as you go and you might be surprised at the benefits that you receive.
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