New Agent at Established Agency

[Carmy]

I'm wondering how agents submit to publishers. If a new agent at an established agency submits work, does the agent mention the agency? How do publishers view new agents? Do they assume the agency has vetted them carefully before taking them on board?

I'm curious because my search for an agent has produced a lot of new agents at some big agencies, but the agents aren't listed in AAR.

[Cathy C]

Actually, new agents at established agencies are usually one of three things: 1) former interns/assistants at that same agency who have come up through the ranks and have earned the right to have their own list; 2) a former intern/assistant at a DIFFERENT agency who was hired away by the agency; or 3) a former editor at a major publishing house who's putting on a new hat. In most all cases, though, a new agent in an established agency already knows their stuff. The agency isn't typically willing to lend their name to someone without the knowledge and contacts ALREADY IN PLACE. There's little on the job training for a full agent position.

A new agent looking to fill their list is an EXCELLENT place to find representation. They're hungry to start producing for the company. That they're not on AAR could mean that they don't have enough sales to qualify, or that they aren't interested in joining (not every agent does.) But don't hesitate to ask the person's background if said agent makes an offer to represent. Ask where they interned. Ask how they got started (in a conversational manner, of course--not accusatory.) I haven't met any new agents yet that aren't happy to discuss their background. They're usually quite proud of where and who they've worked with and the contacts they have. It's part and parcel of their trade. :)

[Carmy]

Many thanks, Cathy. On my last troll through agencies and agents I came across a handful who looked promising so I might query a few and see what happens.

[Kristen King]

As Cathy said, new agents are often a good bet. Get to know them a bit and see if it feels like a good fit! Especially since they'll be looking to build their list, they'll represent you enthusiastically. And when you're with someone from the ground up, that can definitely be a good thing.

It's smart not to limit yourself by determining certain cutoffs without checking out the possibilities, so I'm glad to hear that you're exploring all of the possibilities! :]

Keep us posted.

kk

[Carmy]

Thanks for the boost, Kristen. I've just had a request for a partial from one new agent and I'm about to query another on a different MS. Have my fingers and toes crossed.

[Kristen King]

Hey, that's great! :]

kk