Jennifer_Laughran
knows what she's looking for when she finds it!
Absolute Sage
Super Member
Registered
Some who post here and on other sites ask "what's the most quality you--a writer--seeks in an agent." ... I'm interested in your take on this, and ask if you would post the qualities you believe an agent (and agency) should displsy for a writer to seek out.
I'd make a list of all the things an agent might be, and rank them according to which you value most. Here are some categories I can think of off the top of my head, though I am sure I am missing some:
1. Cuddly / Hand-holding
2. Market knowledge
3. Connections in the industry
4. Well-known agency
5. Experience agenting
6. Energy / Time for clients
7. Open communication
8. Lives in NYC
9. Track record of sales
Now for me, I am NOT a cuddly hand-holder. I have been an agent for less than a year. And I don't live in NYC.
However, I have a lot of market knowledge and connections in the industry, I am with a very well-known agency, I am new so I have energy/time for my clients, I place a high premium on good communication, and I have sold a good number of books so far (though my career history is not long).
So I'd be a great agent for some people -- but not a great fit for others. You have to decide what is important to YOU!