I apologize if this has already been covered in another thread, but...
Let's say you're a first-time novelist with a polished manuscript in hand ("polished" meaning you've been working on it for a couple of years and it's been read/critiqued by two very good beta readers), and you're ready to start looking for an agent. In this day and age, what's the better method for success--sending out queries via email and snail mail, or attending writer's conferences where agents will be present?
One of my beta readers (a one-time owner of her own publishing house) suggested attending conferences is the way to go. But I'm really not willing to shell out the money for travel, hotel costs, etc. if my chances are just as good if I send out queries from the comfort of my own home.
Any thoughts?
Let's say you're a first-time novelist with a polished manuscript in hand ("polished" meaning you've been working on it for a couple of years and it's been read/critiqued by two very good beta readers), and you're ready to start looking for an agent. In this day and age, what's the better method for success--sending out queries via email and snail mail, or attending writer's conferences where agents will be present?
One of my beta readers (a one-time owner of her own publishing house) suggested attending conferences is the way to go. But I'm really not willing to shell out the money for travel, hotel costs, etc. if my chances are just as good if I send out queries from the comfort of my own home.
Any thoughts?