The Role of a Literary Agent
- By: Jessica Faust | Date: Sep 10 2019
In the world of nonfiction, an author can easily get a publishing deal before even querying an agent. Back in my editor days, I would frequently contact authors directly.
That doesn’t mean those authors don’t need agents. There’s a misconception, especially among nonfiction authors, that the agent’s primary job is to connect them with a publisher. Oh, I only wish this were true.
An Agent’s Role
Finding a publisher is the tiniest part of an agent’s job. It’s what happens after that when the real work begins.
- Leveraging the Deal: A good agent will often use that original offer to leverage your deal, potentially with other publishers. I’ve seen many an agent turn a publisher’s offer into a full-blown auction.
- Contract Negotiation: Even if the agent doesn’t get an advance increase, I can guarantee they’ll negotiate contract terms that will amount to far more than the 15% you’re paying.
- Problem Solver: Trouble with your cover? Worried about sales?
Editor is ghosting? Agents to the rescue. That’s what we’re here for. To problem-solve every step of the way. - Career Manager: Before you even start thinking of what’s next, your agent is already on it. Now that you have one deal, how can you make it more? Your agent will know.
The Truth
Publishing is a long game, and not an easy one. One deal doesn’t
An agent’s job is not to pocket your 15%. It’s to manage your career and protect your interests. While you might not think you need one since you have a contract in hand, think instead of whether it just might be a good idea to get one.
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Jessica, terrific insights as always. For newbies like me, can you explain ‘editor is ghosting?’ Thanks!
“ghosting” is a term that comes from dating and means not responding.
Great insight!
I have just started querying and this website is helpful for me.
Thanks for ‘The Truth’, Jessica.
Regarding your bullet points (4 and 5): as a self-published author of genre fiction I chose to hire professionals to ‘problem solve’—copyediting, proofing, cover & website design and content layout—who also provided marketing solutions and career advice. The investment produced a quality product; more importantly, it was an educational experience in preparation for paid publishing opportunities.
Literary agents perform different administrations for creators. They associate the creator’s work with fitting distributers, arrange contracts, guarantee eminence installments, and intercede issues among creator and distributer. Operators can enable new creators to get open acknowledgment.
Reminds me of a guy I used to know.
I appreciate how this blog clarifies what an agent does and when the real work begins.
Thank you, Jessica.
The Bookends Website is very helpful.
Plus, your 15% only comes after you sell the book. You do a lot of work before that happens!
Indeed the request to send them something else is definitely a good sign! Although I did not answer directly if I were you, with the intent of what they say.