13 Ways to Impress an Agent

Posted on Feb 22nd, 2012 | 126 comments home title

Admit it, you’ve been trying to crack the code for getting an agent’s attention, whether in a query or a face-to-face meeting. You’ve been searching high and low for the secret to making an agent sit up and say “Wow!”

Well, since I like you so much, I’m going to risk ostracism from my colleagues by breaking the Agent Code of Secrecy. Here you go — 14 13 surefire ways to impress an agent.

1. Make sure your idea feels fresh.

Everybody knows there are very few completely new ideas. That’s okay — you just have to present your idea from a new angle, with a different spin than what’s already out there, and/or with a fabulous writing style that’s uniquely YOU. Even if your topic is one for which there are already numerous books, make sure it doesn’t feel derivative. Whatever makes your book unique, highlight that in your query, pitch and proposal.

2. Follow submission guidelines.

This is SO obvious, but you’d be amazed how many people never read them. Virtually all agents have submission guidelines on their websites, letting you know what genres they rep and what kind of materials they want you to send.

3. Know your audience.

Who are you writing for? Your pitch should demonstrate that you’re aware of what your audience looks for. If you’re writing non-fiction, you clearly address the “felt need” of your intended reader. If you’re writing fiction, be aware of other books your audience may be reading, and why your book would appeal to them.

4. Have some social media presence…

…and include concrete stats where appropriate. This means number of followers on major social sites and information about blog traffic and comments. If you’re a novelist, it’s not necessary to have big numbers, but still important to show you’re comfortable interacting online (because you’ll need this skill when your book comes out). However, if you’re a non-fiction author, you may want to wait to query until you…

5. Have an impressive platform.

You might have a strong online presence through blogging, YouTube, Facebook and other social media. Or you may have a real-world platform in which you speak in front of audiences or write for major national publications. Maybe you have a database of 10,000 email addresses you’ve personally collected through networking, or perhaps you’re a credentialed and/or award-winning expert in your topic. Whatever it is, non-fiction authors have the best chance of success when they build their book upon a solid platform, which is to say, a built-in audience of potential buyers for your book.

6. Include links to videos where the agent can see you speaking.

Speaking of YouTube, it’s always nice to have some presence there (particularly for you non-fiction writers). Or you might have some videos in other places online. The point is, it’s to your advantage to show yourself speaking or interacting, since this will be part of (eventually) promoting your book.

7. Show some familiarity with today’s marketing requirements for authors.

We’re past the days when you could say, “I’m willing to go on that 12-city book tour the publisher arranges.” It’s to your advantage if you indicate somehow that you’re prepared to dive in and personally promote your book via your networks and sphere of influence.

8. Show at least a cursory familiarity with the agent you’re pitching.

This doesn’t mean you have to mention their dog or their latest Tweet about Nutella. (I hope I’m not the only agent who does that.) It means you should have some idea of what they represent, who their agency is, and possibly know whether they’re one of the many blogging agents. For extra credit…

9. Visit the agent’s blog.

If you’ve commented more than once on an agent’s blog, chances are good they’ll recognize your name when you query or meet them at a conference. A little familiarity is a good thing. You’ll also have a better feel for who the agent is, and whether they might be a good fit for you.

10.Send chocolate early and often.

10. Take the craft of writing seriously.

An agent wants to see a well-crafted and edited manuscript. Keep in mind you may not have a realistic view of your writing without getting feedback from someone else, hopefully someone intelligent, relatively objective, and able to tell you the truth.

11. Know your competition.

Agents and publishers are very aware of the wide range of books out there, and they’re also extremely skilled with researching on Amazon (a highly specialized talent, to be sure). Don’t you dare say “There are no other books like mine” and leave it at that. You need to be aware of books from the last five years that address the same topic, or are similar in theme or subject matter, even if they don’t address your book’s specific niche. With non-fiction books, these are “competitive” titles, whereas in fiction I prefer to think of them as “comparable” titles because they don’t directly compete (readers are likely to buy both, not just one).

12. Present yourself professionally.

We want you to have a personality — professional doesn’t mean boring. But be aware that we’re looking for authors who are serious about the publishing journey and ready to commit themselves to the months and years of hard work ahead.

13. Have a great book.

Of course.

Now that you know how writers can impress agents, tell me:

How can agents impress writers?

P.S. If you’re doing all of the above and you still don’t have an agent, read this:

The Real Reason You’re Getting Rejections

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Bret Draven

By removing “frankly… your manuscript sucks,” from their automated responses! I find it misleading!
- hgutfghj
  
  bitch
http://erinshakespear.blogspot.com Erin Shakespear

Hmmm, what can an agent do to impress me? Well….there’s always the Falling Down on Their Feet to Worship Me and My Book.

Wait. Was that not what you were looking for?

Ok…well, I would imagine something an agent could do to impress me would be to respond to emails in a timely manner. And no stringing along. I was in contact with an agent a few years ago who seemed very enthusiastic about my projects. She asked to see more. She wanted to know what I was working on. I sent the first bit of my WIP. She wanted more chapters. I sent them on. And then one day…nothing. I never heard a peep again.

However, later on I heard she was going through some major personal issues. So, all is forgiven.

BTW…I enjoy your blog.
- http://openwriterclosetnerd.blogspot.com Joseph Ramirez
  
  Ditto. A fast response would definitely warm my writer’s heart to no end.
  - http://erinshakespear.blogspot.net Erin Shakespear
    
    Falling down on their Feet?…oy. This is why I should not type late at night. How about knees? Or face? Or even elbows?
    
    sheesh.
http://perilous1.blogspot.com/ Angela Blount

Good post. A clear and concise reference for those just starting to look into agent procurement. ^_^

Personally, I’m impressed by agents who haven’t given in to the growing trend of not bothering to reply with even a form rejection. I find I hesitate to consider an agent who has a disclaimer in their submission instructions about only responding if they are interested. The hope of rejection feedback, however miniscule, is a solid part of my consideration process.
- Brandi Lynch
  
  I agree. Even a form rejection is better than nothing. If I get nothing, then I always have that little voice in my head whispering, “Did they pass…or did my query vanish into the void?” Some agents use the “confirmation of receipt” email, and that at least lets me know what the silence means.
- http://www.eveningbogstandard.com Stuart
  
  I think these ‘how to’ blogs are excellent. What I want from rejection letters is a single sentence within the response which gives a big clue such as: ‘feels as though it doesn’t start until page 100…’
  
  I have just spotted this sort of redraft requirement in my current novel but endorsement of such a big decision would always be welcome as an additional note from an outside perspective.
http://www.VanessaKEccles.blogspot.com Vanessa K. Eccles

I agree with Erin. The response time is killer with most agents, and while I understand the time restraint of having to read hundreds of queries, it’s horrible to have to wait 4-6 weeks or longer. With every day that passes without a response, the more painful the form letter is when it’s recieved.

I really found this post helpful. Thank you for letting us know what you expect from us. I will refer back to this list when I resume sending out queries.
BB Scott

Thanks for sharing the Agent Code of Secrecy, Rachelle. Chocolate is in the mail.
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  What?! I didn’t say anything about chocolate, did I?
  - http://melindadyksterhouse.us/ Dianne Dykstra
    
    No worries- the secret is safe with us. One question though: was that Godiva or Hershey’s brand? I wouldn’t want to send the wrong kind.
http://jamiemchenry.blogspot.com/ Jamie McHenry

I met a few agents last year at my first writers conference and was amazed with how accessible and friendly they were during breaks and social moments. All answered every question honestly and seemed genuinely interested in the swarms of eager writers around them. Thanks to those agents, I came away with a better understanding of your role in the publishing industry. I was impressed, and always will be, with the agents like you who reach out to writers. Thank you.
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  Thanks for sharing this, Jamie. It cracks me up how agents aren’t perceived as “people” until we actually appear in public and act human.
http://www.latinapen.blogspot.com Mona AlvaradoFrazier

So glad you came out of “The Cone of Silence” and shared your knowledge. Response time is number one on the wish list. Send something in response within 30-45 days.
http://soyoureawriter.blogspot.com Carrie Butler

This was so helpful! Thank you, Rachelle!
http://cossetteo.blogspot.com/ Cossette

I’d say the strongest impression an agent can make on us is to be accessible. Sending our hard work off to someone we have researched but really don’t know much about is still kind of scary. So when agents keep up blogs like this one, it makes it a little less frightening, and makes the agent that much more appealing.

Just my two cents.
http://www.martzbookz.blogspot.com Martha Ramirez

Awesome tips! Thank you, Rachelle. I had a few agents reach out to me and I found that to be very impressive.
http://differentcornersinmylife.blogspot.com/2011/08/questions-questions-questions.html karen

Not getting a rejection irks me. I know agents are very busy and they are getting hundreds of queries a day, a week, a month, but even a quick automated one would be helpful, especially when they tell you that if they like it, it could take 14 to 16 weeks before they respond to you.
http://donweston.wordpress.com Don Weston

Great post. It looks like I’m doing most of the things you mentioned here. I have done speaking in areas other than writing, and lots of volunteering with writing organizations.
Now I just have to get the final revision done on my book, so I can send it out.
Meanwhile I will use these
suggestions as a checklist.
http://www.rachellewrites.blogspot.com Rachelle Christensen

Thanks for this awesome checklist. One of the things an agent can do to impress me is to show that they understand the importance of a social media platform and networks because this type of an agent will know how to revise a contract to include specific marketing requests and a plan that will help guide a book to success. All of that effort asked of authors to build, build, build, means so much more when it is working alongside the common goals of the publisher.
And chocolate. An agent who sends me chocolate–dark chocolate–would impress me.
http://pjcasselman.blogspot.com/ P. J. Casselman

I’m bookmarking this post. It was good to read it from the chocolate lover’s mouth. Some of it, you’ve told us in previous posts which inspired me to get a following on Twitter and write stories in my blog on a regular basis.

As for your question, there are a few things agents can do that would impress writers.
1. Respond to all queries. Even a “Thanks, but this book is not a good fit for me.” cut and paste would suffice.
2. Refrain from sarcastic comments about queries in blogs and/or Twitter. While you do not do this, I see a number that do and I find it less than professional. Those of us on this end of publishing consider it bullying and the agents to be arrogant jerks.
3. Create a bull-pen for upstarts. Most of us are scared that sharing our work with others would lead to theft. However, if an agent recruited a few people to have an “edit and advise the person on your left” circle, then many would jump at the chance.
4. Periodically mention “hot topics” for books. Often we do not know what is marketable, but agents do. It would be helpful to get some direction before spending months on a book that is just not going to fly.
5. Provide chocolates to those reading your blog. (Woops, how’d this get in there?)
6. Agents should be more like Rachelle Garnder, because she actually wants writers to succeed, even if she cannot be everyone’s agent. (No snow here ) Often, agents come across as gatekeepers who think new writers are pathetic and treat us as numbers. Each one of us hurts when we feel like our dreams are torn apart.
The flip side is that authors should not reply to agents as if they are bad people when the agent says “no.”

For established writers, I am sure there is another list, but those of us on the bottom rung would appreciate the above IMHO.
- April
  
  I only agree with 1 and 6 on your list, and I’m a “bottom rung” writer too. I think your expectations for your other points are misplaced.
  
  Besides, slushpilehell.tumblr.com is hilarious!
  - http://pjcasselman.blogspot.com/ P. J. Casselman
    
    April, I’m so glad you get a laugh out of others receiving public criticism. I’m sure those slammed found it equally amusing.
    
    “She thinks she an turn a phrase, but all it did was turn my stomach.” <- That is an actual post I read on Twitter from a top agent about a writer identified in an earlier tweet. The website you mentioned and Ms. Snark's page were anonymous pages where the author was unidentified.
    
    As far as the other suggestions, those are for a perfect world, in which we, of course, do not live. However, the joy of life comes from striving to make the present more like the "not yet."
    - April
      
      Bad writing is funny. When I write something bad and someone teases me about it, I laugh too.
      
      Sometimes a sense of humor is necessary in this business.
      - http://pjcasselman.blogspot.com/ P. J. Casselman
        
        Okie dokie.
- http://writingandliving.net Staci Eastin
  
  I agree whole-heartedly with number 2. I have unsubscribed to more than one agent on Twitter for snarky comments about submissions on Twitter. It takes enormous courage to show one’s work to others (especially in the beginning). When an agent makes a mocking comment (even though the poor soul isn’t named in any way), I feel like they’ve betrayed a trust.
  
  I do understand agents who are frustrated with writers who don’t do basic research before submitting, but I’ve seen agents who made comments that were just mean, and that bothers me.
  - http://writingandliving.net Staci Eastin
    
    Okay, too many prepositional phrases, there. I was talking about agents who make snarky comments on Twitter, not writers who try to query via Twitter. I’ve seen that happen also, and well, that might deserve a snarky comment.
  - http://www.handymancraftywoman.com Laurie Evans
    
    I agree with this. As a newbie writer working on a query and going to my first writer’s conference soon, this just adds to my already frazzled nerves!
Ilima

Nice list!

While I understand why some agents choose the “no response means no” route, I am impressed with agents who take the time to send me a simple rejection. This just shows basic respect and courtesy for me as a writer and human being.

These agents definitely go to the top of my list of people I would query again with a different and hopefully better project.
http://jillurbach.com Jill U.

Thanks for the chuckle at #10! And, for taking the time to write a consistent and informative blog.
http://merceyvalley.blogspot.com/ Mercey Valley

So I guess the only thing left for me to do is actually make the pitch and stop eating the chocolate (and start sending it).

What flavour(s) do you like?

And wine?
http://4broadminds.blogspot.com/ carol brill

The number one thing an agent can do to impress me is treat writers with the same professional respect they expect from writers. In snail mail days, rejections on scraps of paper, or NOPE scrawed across a letter.
I am with others, that it helps greatly to have someone accessible like you show the very human side of an agent.
http://girlsinwhitedresses.wordpress.com/ Susan

Agents can impress me by actually responding to a query painstakingly crafted and sent.
http://thoughtsthatmove.blogspot.com/ Wendy Paine Miller

By sending chocolate early & often. Ohps, didn’t see an X out option for me anywhere.

Strong communication skills impress me, a demonstrated knowledge of the business, someone who takes my career seriously and gets excited about my vision…those are all included in my “I am impressed file”.

That file is full because of you!
~ Wendy
http://cynthiadwyer.com Cindy Dwyer

This blog post was so timely for me, thank you. I’m working on my query for a humor book on food, love and antics in my Irish-Italian family. My only publishing credits (so far!) are humor writing contests and a blog I started at Christmas.

Now I know it’s a good idea to mention the 64 followers I picked up in the past two months. And, even more exciting, I can only account for about one-quarter of them being people I know!

To answer your question, agent blogs are the most wonderful thing agents can do to help and impress writers. The effort agents put into their websites helps me to remember that when an agent opens my query, he or she has the same hopes and dreams that I do that my manuscript will be the next best seller. It’s my job as a writer to try to not disappoint them by the end of my query!
http://theotherstephenkingonwriting.blogspot.com Stephen H. King

A great list! Thank you.

As for authors, we’re probably the easiest people in the world to impress. All it takes is a check, written in any old amount as long as it has at least five zeroes left of the decimal, with “Advance” in the memo line, made out to “The Future Best-Seller.” No, for real, it works every time.

I think not shutting the door on new queries no matter how busy you are and responding to them in a timely manner goes a long way, too, though. Maybe not six-figure long way, but at least two-figure.

My debut novel has been queried, published, royaltied, through a fiasco, and now re-published with a different cover. Number 2 is about to come out. Meanwhile, I JUST received a rejection letter from one of last year’s queries. Really, dude?
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  Don’t take it personally, Stephen. I often receive rejection letters from editors…a month before the book is scheduled to be released by another publisher.
http://www.loripotter.com Lori Potter

Awesome tips! Thanks for all you are doing to make this process understandable. I have one question about the social media points. You emphasize the need to have a significant social media platform prior to contacting an agent if we are writing non-fiction. However, what if I have a wide number of media reps throughout my region who are following me and willing to blast teaser stories only when I have officially confirmed that I’m writing my book? (i.e. when a publisher picks it up, etc.) I think it’s sort of like having the cart before the horse in my situation…my blog and twitter following are modest right now but, due to the nature of what I will write about, will pick up once the ball is rolling forward, so to speak. Any thoughts on this?
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  There are exceptions to every rule. Only you can decide if you’re one of them.
  - http://www.loripotter.com Lori Potter
    
    That’s good to know, thank you very much for replying!
http://dianewbailey.com/ Diane Bailey

When choosing an agent I look at the track record of their clients. I have learned it is not all about the money..though that is really great…but the money will come if the book is out there and is good. But authors need to realize that the hard work, verses the fun work, begins after the book is written. Or, at least, that has been my experience.
Dozie Nzewi

Thanks Rachelle for this helpful blog. With over one million persons writing a new book in America it must be rational for individual writers to draw attention to themselves.
It is good that an agent of your rating has taken on new writers this year, but still takes away hope that there are only two. At that rate it may be just a dozen a year.
I cannot avoid wondering how you manage to research the postings on this blog, for example the work about Kodak inc( which was probably as good as any analysis there was on the story) write them, do all the other work of an agent which includes a lot of reading and be able to read all the queries of writers trying to be. This must take some motivation. Do agents stop reading queries when they find something promising and comeback when done with work in hand for new picks? Do many queries go unread? What is it like one day in the life of an agent? Does having so many people seeking your favor affect you? How do you maintain balance?
There must be a lot of competition among agents trying to get books sold. Does this enable agents to be bluntly rational about their work; cutting what needs to be cut and such. Agents have to meet publishers’ requirements. It must take an 007 to get all this done.
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  Everyone makes choices about how to spend their time. For me to keep this blog going, it means I rarely watch TV or movies except on the weekend, and I don’t have much leisure time. I happiest working and being productive, so it’s fine for me. Thanks for the comment!
http://www.juturnafaerthing.blogspot.com Juturna F.

What would really impress me in an agent is a forward-thinking, “How can I help my client set herself (himself) up for success in this changing market? What can I do to take advantage of the innovative technology currently available, and what should I advise her to do?” It’s a changing world, and I feel like an agent who can help an author navigate the channels with timely advise on where to focus next is what I will be looking for as I plan my career path.(Is it time for your next book to be multimedia? Maybe you should ask for the publisher’s brand name on your e-book. You need to open an account on this new social networking site.)
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  Juturna, I think you’ve accurately described what our agency does.
  - http://www.juturnafaerthing.blogspot.com Juturna F.
    
    And that’s why I keep coming back to your blog!
    
    Although I’m more likely to send my manuscript to one of the other agents at your agency when it’s ready (and it’s not ready yet), since she’s a little better fit for my genre and career path, I appreciate the advice and hard work you’ve put into this blog. I’ve found it very helpful.
http://Www.lizalake.com Liza Lake

Thank you for the great post. Frankly, you have done a pretty good job of impressing me by offering such great advice in your posts. But, aside from that, kindness and sincerity always impress me. Have a great day.
Jennifer Major

I highly recommend the Purdy’s Milk Chocolate Hedgehog.
I am looking at agent’s client and book lists and keeping a close eye on what they have brought into the publishing world. A level of integrity is extremely important. If I see alot of earthy language on his/her blog I will never go back. We are known by the company we keep so as I work my way through the agent websites, I look for a professional roll call, and an environment in which I would be comfortable enough to take my children.

Unless there’s line dancing and dark chocolate. Do not even get me started on mint mixed with chocolate. Blech!
Unless you like mint chocolate Rachelle , then I’d do the backstroke in a vat of it.

It’d be cool if agents were tempted to schmooze writers the way writers want to schmooze agents!
- http://jillurbach.com Jill U.
  
  Someone makes a chocolate hedgehog?! Boy, is my hedgehog-loving daughter going to enjoy her Easter basket this year! Thanks for the tip. (See? You just never know what great information you can pick up from this blog.)
  - Jennifer Major
    
    http://www.purdys.com
http://annemartinfletcher.wordpress.com/ Anne Martin Fletcher

How NOT to impress an Agent (#12): get distracted by a Royal Wedding on TV, leave late in a snow storm, and arrive late at a face-to-face meeting, assuming the Agent is only meeting with me as a favor to a client.

How to impress a Writer: Set a drop-dead time to meet with me, immediately start discussing my proposal and manuscript, and offer representation. Wow. Dreams do come true.
NOTE TO WRITERS: Agents are too busy to meet you just as a favor to their clients.
Susan Bourgeois

Agents can impress writers with great knowledge through blogs like yours.

Your blog is informative (even when we may not like hearing something you say)and inspirational.

We are able to pick up many important attributes an agent should possess by reading your daily posts.

I can tell you’re a well-organized, intelligent, and diligent agent. You have a strong sense of humor and that you strive to create balance in all areas of your life.

You keep abreast or ahead of the game in areas of technology that are vital to the business.

You go above and beyond to inform writers of information they must have to reach success in this business.

I’ve been reading and writing on your blog for months.

I’m not saying anything different than most writers feel who follow your blog in the same manner.

You’re the type agent writers want for the long haul.
http://www.colindsmith.com/blog Colin Smith

How do agents impress me/entice me to query them? Here are some thoughts, addressed to a generic agent:

1. Have a blog that’s not all business, where I get an idea of your personality, not just your professionalism. Should you offer representation, we’re going to be in this for the long haul (I hope). It’s important we get along and enjoy the ride together.

2. Have an auto-response to queries/submissions–and tell me about it on your website. Something that tells me my query/submission reached its intended destination, and didn’t end up in an internet black hole. Without this, if I don’t hear from you in weeks, I’m left wondering if I should re-send (at the risk of annoying you) in case it didn’t reach you.

3. Respond to every query. Sorry Rachelle, but I’m with Janet Reid on this one. A form rejection is sad, but it tells me two very important things: you actually received my query (in the event you don’t have auto-respond–see above point), and you’re not interested so I can move on. I’m not left hanging for a couple of months (or however long you say on your website) wondering if my dream agent wants to see more, or if I should cry bitter tears into my pillow and then move on.

Clearly, I have and will query agents who don’t have some or all of the above. But agents with these tend to get my attention more than others.
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  I hear you, Colin, and many others who have expressed the same thing. But after wrestling with this for years, I had to face the truth that it was either keep this blog going, or respond to every single query. I choose the blog. At least if people follow our guidelines and send queries to the correct email address, they will always get an auto-response letting them know it was received.
  
  It grieves me constantly that I can’t live up to everyone’s expectations (or hopes) in every way. But there is only so much time in a day, and my family sees the back of my head enough already (while I’m siting at the computer). I have precious little down time or leisure time in my life, I’m not willing to spend more of it saying “no” to the thousands who query each year. I have to spend my time on the “yeses” along with serving writers through this blog.
  - http://www.colindsmith.com/blog Colin Smith
    
    I really do appreciate that, Rachelle. And I know you’re not alone. There are other well-respected agents that I would be proud to have represent me that agree with you. So this is certainly not a deciding factor for me.
    
    I do want to say, as a word of encouragement, that your blog is one of the best agent blogs I’ve come across. I feel you actually attempt to connect with your readers, not just inform. That’s a really good way to make us remember you when we’re querying.
  - http://pjcasselman.blogspot.com/ P. J. Casselman
    
    Rachelle, ctrl-v a “no.” It will not be personal, but the writer moves on with a sense of closure. Yes, it’s like a tiny fragment of mourning and we need a to habeas corpus.
http://www.karenadair.blogspot.com Karen Adair

Fabulous post! So timely…which I have to agree is one of the things I’m looking for in an agent: timely in responding with a no or a YES! Because attention to an individual shows what kind of agent they are and how the rest of your relationship will transpire. Are they organized? Will they communicate often? Or leave you hanging for weeks without a word. So yes, TIME is of the essence…in an agent. And a love for all things chocolate. In fact, I talk about chocolate in my book. Should I mention that in my query?
http://thewritingplace.wordpress.com/ Carol Benedict

I’m impressed by agents who have an online presence that reflects their personality, integrity, and writing ability. I’m also impressed by agents who represent authors whose books I admire.
http://deborahserravalle.wordpress.com Deborah Serravalle

Good post and great advice.

I had started to query my novel manuscript but stopped and started another round of revisions – I’m about half way through.

During the time I was sending out query letters, and receiving rejections or silence, I was frustrated by my inability to figure out the problem: is it my query letter, my project or the saturated market? Since only the query and writing are within my control, I thought I’d give those another go-round. But this is my last re-write unless an agent or publisher is involved. I confess to a fear that I’m writing the never-ending novel.

Mind you, I never thought about sending chocolate with my query letters…
http://byronscurse.wordpress.com Ashley Prince

Great post, Rachelle. I will be bookmarking this and going over it again and again before I attempt to find an agent.

Thanks for the wonderful information.
Jan Drexler

Great tips! Thanks, Rachelle!

My only tip for agents is similar to many other comments – some kind of response in a reasonable time. I appreciate the “if you don’t hear from us in 10 days” type response because I have an end point.

The chocolate is in the mail….
Elizabeth Kitchens

I’m already pretty impressed by your professional photo and excellent blog writing, but if you tell me your favorite chocolate is Dove’s chocolate truffle eggs, then I’ll be very impressed.
http://www.saradavison.org Sara Davison

Thanks for this great information Rachelle, and for asking the question in reverse. Makes it feel like we are actually all working together in this business, and not labouring under some perceived hierarchy with the poor writer way down at the bottom somewhere. Your openness, tranparency and sense of humour are very much appreciated, as is your advice.
http://lindsayharrel.blogspot.com Lindsay Harrel

I love lists, so thank you for this one!

I’m impressed with agents who are warm and personable. I think agents have this reputation for being intimidating, but there is definitely a way to be both professional and relational.
Angel

I suspect most writers are in it for life…while the book I’m writing serves a very specific purpose. That said, I need an agent who can understand the blood, guts and tears that has gone into the writing, and handle the topic with respect. Strange and little picky, I know, but I’m not sure it would work any other way.
http://www.jnrich.com John C. Rich

Many of these things seem like “duh” items, but others I would have thought should not be in a query. Such as your online following and such. Thanks for the info. I will check with my wife about the chocolate.
Erin Ivy

You’re not in my market, but the reason I keep reading you?… posts like this and “The Real Reasons you are getting rejections.” That fact that you think differently from a lot of agents comes through.
- Erin Ivy
  
  oops! “The fact…” not “That fact…” Hate it when I see a typo right after it posts.
Else

Just wanna say for the encouragement of fellow Luddites: I have no social media presence and have impressed an agent anyway. And she me.

What agents can do to impress potential clients:

1. Speak to us as equals/potential employers. (Thinking of certain agents, not among those present, who tend to queen it a bit.)

2. Get back to us promptly. Even with rejections. “No response means no” is just… rude.

After we’ve signed with you:

3. Know individual editors and their likes and dislikes well.

4. Tell us who you’re submitting our manuscript to and what they say. (I had an agent once who concealed this information. She’d tell me the publishers, but not the editors’ names.)

5. Bring us six-figure deals.
http://www.marcykennedy.com/blog Marcy Kennedy

Comparative titles for fiction always cause me trouble. Do they want novels with a similar theme or subject matter even if the writing styles are very different (e.g. the comparable title has a slower pace and is more literary while yours is faster paced)? I worry that by using those books as my comparables, an agent familiar with those titles will assume that’s also how I write. It gives a false impression. But if I choose books that feel more like my writing in terms of how they read without the similarity in theme or topic, will an agent understand that connection?
http://thatnolenchick.wordpress.com April Nolen

I appreciate agents who respond to my #amwriting Twitter questions. You and another agent I follow have done this. Makes me feel like I matter, even though I’m not your client.
http://www.artesianministries.org Donna Pyle

I feel as if I broke all the rules above but still received the gift of an extraordinary agent- YOU! Chocolate, Amazon gift cards, and Starbucks on the way…
http://mauzewriting.wordpress.com/ Rebecca Monaco

Ways for Agents to Impress Writers? Have amazing, informative, and interesting blogs like this one. I guess you’re a step ahead.

Thanks for the ideas and insight.
http://www.inkspirationalmessages.com Regina Merrick

I went straight from this post to “The Real Reason You’re Getting Rejections,” and they’re both great. I spent a year revising and querying a particular publisher, only to find out that my MS wasn’t a good fit for that line. It was a definite “duh” moment for me – Not enough conflict? Of course not! That’s one of the things that made me unsure of that line to begin with! “Know your competition.” It’s so true! I read a lot of books that would be “competition” or “complimentary” to mine, so THAT’S where I need to spend my time.

Thanks for the words of wisdom, and the chocolate’s in the mail . . .
Lori

Very good topic today!!

Chocolate works for me too.

In fact some of the engineers I write for have been known to give me chocolate.
http://www.sarahanneloudinthomas.wordpress.com Sarah Thomas

Of course the #1 wish for would-be authors is and probably always will be quicker response time. Or, perhaps, any response at all.

I think the difference between you and so many other agents is that you’re incredibly upfront in explaining why there’s a long wait (and how that might even be a good thing). You’re also very clear on your blog about how you operate. The upshot is that even when I don’t hear from you, I have a good idea why I’m not hearing and can hope or move on accordingly.

I agree that your time is incredibly well-spent on this blog. You’re reaching a multitude of writers rather than the one you would reach with the “no thank you” reply. And it’s much appreciated!
http://www.supamomthoughts.blogspot.com Angie Dicken

I think your first #10 could go both ways! I have had great responses from agents, rejections, yes, but the agents who give me a reason other than a form email or no response at all, have helped me figure out how to improve what I am doing. Although it still stings to be rejected, I have the utmost respect for those agents. It’s also nice that they are willing to look at future manuscripts even if the one I sent isn’t their “cup of tea”.
http://www.flowering-minds.com Darshana

Thanks for this helpful, informative post. I am just beginning in my writing career, however I have started building an on-line platform by doing children’s book reviews. It has helped me in connecting with so many people on the web.

I will be bookmarking this post for later reference.
http://www.kellihughett.blogspot.com Kelli Hughett

Where do we send the Chocolate?
http://www.gabrielle-meyer.blogspot.com Gabrielle Meyer

I am new to this industry and at first I was under the impression that agents were hard to approach and very few were taking queries. When I found your blog I was impressed that you regularily make yourself available to aspiring authors and offer great tips and ideas. I might have some different ideas when I start sending out query letters, but for now I am quite impressed!
http://molliejoyrushmeyer.wordpress.com Mollie Rushmeyer

Daunting, but helpful! Thank you, Rachelle!
http://www.gillianmarchenko.com/ Gillian Marchenko

Hi Rachelle,
Will every query receive an automated response showing it was received? I queried you about a month ago, but after reading through these comments, realized I did not get an automated response. I checked the email address. I think it was correct.
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  If you sent it anywhere but the “representation” address, it would have gone into a black hole.
Josh C.

Great post! I think what impresses me about agents is reaching out to writers and educating them about the industry and guiding them along in the process. That can be through blogs, interviews, conferences, etc. What’s especially impressive is that these agents reach out to writers with whom they have no business relationship and possibly never will. I can’t help but think if an agent will take the time for that now, what will he/she do if we do enter into a business relationship. That shows not only a passion for what they do, but a strong work ethic. It gives writers a chance to gain some familiarity with the agent and a sense that he/she is approachable. Likewise, opening up a chance for writers to comment also allows for them to let the agent get to know them in some small way. It takes a lot of time and care to do that, I’m sure, and that impresses me a great deal.
http://www.rebastanley.com Reba

Once again Rachelle, great post. I found it very helpful.
How can agents impress writers? For me it would be being approachable. When at the few conferences I’ve attend it seemed to me that the agent who was speaking was on a higher plain than those of us in the audience, they were unapproachable. Maybe it was just me, but (no buttering up intended at all here) blogging with someone who is an agent seems to bring them to a level of being approachable. It helps us writers know the agent a little better, then we can get a better feel of if that agent is the right one to attempt to work with.
KarenM

Rachelle ,

Will deBrands do?

I sincerely appreciate all the time and thought you put into these amazing posts. I can hardly wait to query you (later this spring).

Thanks again!
Karen
http://www.jilliankent.com Jillian Kent

Hi Rachelle,
I think you might consider referring writer’s who are trying to sell their very first book to this blog post, The Pancake Rule, which is over at the Killzone today.
http://killzoneauthors.blogspot.com/

I’m not sure how you can make all this information palatable, but it sure is true. I know, I tried to sell my first one. Blush, and blush some more.

I’d recommend you all take a look at the Pancake Rule. No one is paying me to say this. Honest. It’s something everyone with a first book and those just thinking about writing should read.

Blessings!
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  Thanks, Jillian! I clicked over – you’re right, it’s a great post.
http://www.theartoftoadkissing.com Heidi Lee Munson

Great advice Rachelle! I’ve been most impressed with the accessibility and the willingness to share information for improvement. Agents not only with Blogs, but with their own active Twitter presence are wonderful. I love to know that the agent is indeed nurturing his/her own platform as well. Makes me think – Team.
http://www.lilagardner.com Lea Taddonio

I agree with many of the comments above, but didn’t want to pass on a chance to add my two cents of praise…as a newbie writer, i get that creating a polished manuscript is my responsibility. but when it comes to what happens next, i’ve felt utterly clueless. many thanks to you and the other agents who make a point of helping writers succeed by offering relevant, professional advice.
http://www.CrazyAboutChurch.com Charles Specht

What’s wrong with sending chocolate? Do you have any idea how much money I’ve spent this past year sending chocolates to literary agents?

On a more serious note, Rachelle, how much is “enough” to impress an agent/publisher when it comes to platform or online presence?

For example:
1. How many Twitter followers or Facebook fans is enough?

2. How many daily impressions on one’s blog is enough?

3. What Alexa rank is “good enough” to make an agent giddy?
- Rachelle Gardner
  
  Everyone asks that, but it’s situation specific, and it’s always looked at relative to others in that same niche and what kind of platforms they have. Different kinds of books require different size platforms to be considered viable. I think if you’re getting 1,000 pageviews a day, you’re going to impress people. As a comparison, over the last two weeks, my lowest weekday had a little over 2800 pageviews, and my highest had over 4700. That would be considered pretty good, but I know plenty of bloggers who get a lot more than that.
  - http://www.CrazyAboutChurch.com Charles Specht
    
    Gotcha. I’m up to around 400 impressions per day, so I have a ways to go.
    
    PS: When you want to be my agent, let me know and I’ll send you a truckload of chocolate? LOL
- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003406008465 Zuess
  
  Philip Carr:I loved it! The promo had me looking out for it on Showcase and when I chagut it over the weekend I was pleasantly surprised at the high grade production value and the stellar acting of the principal characters. The premise while done was given a new spin which made it exciting. I am looking forward to many more episodes and a run of many years. A big bonus for me was learning that it is a Canadian product. Well done, and thanks.
http://www.amymacwrites.com Amy Mac

Agents who take the time to give excellent advice through their blogs impress me. Thanks for the great post!
http://www.perrincothranconrad.com Perrin Conrad

Wow, I would say agents can impress authors by being open and helpful like you are, Rachelle! Great post…it has even gotten me thinking I should send out some queries for the novel I’m finishing up (as opposed to self-pubbing as before). I would also say that if I got a rejection letter with constructive criticism and editorial, pointers, I would find it easier to swallow than a form letter.
http://babblefromtheburbs.blogspot.com/ Kathryn Elliott

Whether in writer world or where sane people live, honesty always impresses me most. I may not rejoice when agents close for queries or implement a “no response means no” policy, but I’m human, I get it – one more email and you’ll leak gray matter, we’ve all been there in one way or another. I can’t speak for anyone else, but I know I would feel better represented by an agent in full possession of their cerebellum. 
http://www.ishtamercurio.blogspot.com Ishta Mercurio

Good post.

I’m most impressed by agents who take the time to respond to every query, and who show that they really give time and energy to their clients. I was at a writers’ conference once where I saw an agent working overtime at a critique table, really making sure that everyone got solid feedback and had an idea of where to go next with their manuscript. That agent has impressed me more than anyone else.
http://avajae.blogspot.com Ava Jae

Love these tips, thanks for sharing them, Rachelle! I know one way agents have impressed me is by maintaining great blogs–not only does this help give writers a good idea as to what the agent is like and what the agent likes to see in a manuscript, but it certainly helps as far as learning the craft and becoming educated about the publishing realm as well.
http://einefeistyberg.wordpress.com Cherry Odelberg

Rachelle, reading your blog has done more to restore and establish my faith in agents than any other event (other than hearing when Brock and Bodie Thoene finally began using an agent). Let me explain. I have been writing for a number of years and adding to my education via seminars, workshops, grammar books and how to books as time and money allowed. I am so old, that I remember the day when reputable and main line publishers would not look at agented works. Books were only available in hardcopy form – or maybe hardcopy re-read onto cassette-and vanity presses were called that because only the rich and vain would ever. The writer had to have stamina and a shell hard enough to contact publishers head-on and suffer direct rejection, but, once the book was accepted, the publisher did the marketing and the writer went about writing their next tome.
I have lived to see the day when I published my pilot book independently just to avoid the agent morass, and because I figured, “what have I got to lose? I will have to do all my own marketing anyway.”
The best thing an agent can to for a writer? Keep abreast of the market – keep ahead of the market and be open to new styles of writing. Expect and anticipate the changes. If agents are only looking for manuscripts like the current best sellers, and books signed today are not in print for 18 months, agent and author alike are already woefully behind the power curve.
Never say never.
For example: eBooks will never outsell traditional books; you will never get a publisher without an agent; your book will never sell with that title…
No one is reading books like that.
No one wants to read about that subject.

Who knows? They might be in 18 months. Anticipate ahead.

But, do go ahead and use your criticism to hold us (the writers) accountable to produce the absolute best, well-honed professional manuscript and voice possible.
Alicia

One way for agents to impress writers is to give more feedback on their queries as to what doesn’t work. I know there are hundreds coming in daily and it is next to impossible to give feedback on every one. But I’m always impressed by the ones that take the time.
http://www.danarosebailey.com Dana Bailey

Great information, especially the part about present yourself professionally. You’d think it would go without saying, but some people don’t get it.

Not an exact analogy, but I worked a booth at a job fair this past fall, and we had people show up in their pajamas. Some didn’t even look like they’d brushed their hair.

Writers are fortunate that they can write a query in their pajamas, but they still need to show respect and professionalism in what they do write.

I’m impressed by agents who have a clear voice on their website or social media presence. Reading blogs like this are not only helpful, but I think you get a feel for the agent’s personality and whether or not you’d like to work with them.

BTW: Nutella seems to be everywhere these days. Have you checked out all the recipes on Pinterest?
http://kristinlaughtin.blogspot.com Kristin Laughtin

Great post. I think, to put it succinctly, that professionalism and interest are what impress both agents and writers. If you present yourself well, especially online, others will take notice. You can do this both by your writing and by the research you do and the amount you engage with others. Thanks!
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http://www.michaelinfinito.com Otin

#14: Flattery…..

How could I possibly expect to impress such a wonderful and intelligent woman as yourself? hehehe
http://roger.floyd.wordpress.com Roger Floyd

I don’t disagree with your list, but keep in mind that us writers may be querying 50, 75, or a hundred or more agents, and that makes it difficult to comment several times on the blogsite of all those agents. Becoming familiar with each agent is time consuming, and that may lead to shotgun blogging where a person with a novel just sends out query letters all over the place, hoping something will stick. That may not be the best way to do it, but it does get the novel in front of an agent who might, just might, take an interest and request more. Writing is a subjective business. So is querying.
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http://www.kimvanbrunt.com/honestly-adoption-the-blog Kim Van Brunt

I read somewhere that a non-fictions platform stats don’t have to be staggering, necessarily, especially if she’s just starting out — but they have to show steady growth in the time she’s been working to build it. Do you agree? (The mention of 10,000 email addresses made me a little weak, gotta admit).
Cindy Regnier

Thanks Rachelle:
The agent that cares is the #1 wish. The rest falls into place with that attribute. This blog is proof you’re one of those!
http://www.leahrhyne.com Leah Rhyne

What can agents do to impress writers? Posts like this, that give insights into what we should be doing.

Responding to all queries is another – even a form rejection is better than no reply at all, in my mind.

But anyway, for this post, I thank you.
http://www.robincoyle.com Robin Coyle

Love the crossed-ou #10.
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http://www.thehahnhuntinglodge.com Nikole Hahn

If I had known about the not-so-subtle hint of chocolate, I would have brought that to my pitch. Mmm…I can do most anything except pitch. For some reason, facing one of you guys makes me babble. Is there any cure? I’ve heard this afflicts most writers.
http://www.taylornapolsky.com Taylor Napolsky

Great list. Thanks!
Laura Howard

I’d be so grateful if you’d give me a quick definition of fantasy vs supernatural for what you’re looking for. I’m assuming fantasy is alternate universe whereas supernatural is our own…
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http://fictiontoolbox.blogspot.com Melissa Sugar

I appreciate your candor. I am very close to sending my query letters and it is helpful to know what is expected. Most of the agent code of secrecy is common sense or at least it seems that writers at this stage of the process should already be aware of the criteria.

I know what you mean about us not viewing agents as real people until we get to know them. It reminds me of how I viewed judges when I first got out of law school.

Thank you for the useful tips.
http://penpaperperseverance.blogspot.com Pamela.Towns

I’m impressed with professionalism as well! I’ve received rejection letters that state, “. . . we owe our readers a high quality product . . .” as if mine is so crappy I’d ruin their reputation! Perhaps that’s the case. But, diplomacy is everything. I recently received an informative rejection letter. I was so appreciative because now have a gauge in which to work from. I am encouraged because I know that I am close with my novel being a polished work. I take the craft of writing very seriously and have no problem with “respectful criticisms.” Take a look at the letter I received:
Thank you so much for submitting TWELVE YEARS to __________. This has been a very difficult decision, but ultimately, this book doesn’t feel like the right fit for our catalogue.

Your writing and craftsmanship are stellar. And I loved that Brian so very much. Unfortunately, this book seems a bit too “vignettey” VIN-YET/-TEE to me and pulling together so many scenes from Twelve Years feels slightly overwhelming as a reader. Additionally, I think this book strays a bit too far into the area of “women’s fiction” which is not something that sells well at ________.

Thank you again for your submission. I really did enjoy this book. I wish you the best of luck in finding the right home for it.
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http://shortstoriesandmadrants.blogspot.com Diandra

Thanks for sharing!

One way an agent really impressed me was when she rejected my manuscript, stating that in her opinion there was no market for the story, but that my writing was definitely great. I liked that she took the time to explain her decision, even if it was in one sentence only, and did not leave me feeling like, “Boo me, I am such a failure!” (I guess every writer has these moments. No? Just me? Okay.)
http://www.donasdays.blogspot.com Donna Martin

I really enjoyed reading this post. Very informative and timely as I finish polishing my latest WIP.

What can agents do for writers? While I understand how buried you must be with clients and new manuscripts or query letters to review, a system in place that offers a timely response to writers would be greatly appreciated. But even more than that, I think writers, new and established, appreciates the simply honesty of your wisdom. As a newer writer, I am challenged to learn the ropes quickly and your input as an expert in the publishing arena allows me to continue to grow as an artist.

Thanks, Rachelle, for all you do for the writing community!
http://www.kclarkscorner.blogspot.com Kevin

Hey,

I really enjoyed this post and found it very informative. But what are the marketing/promo strategies for the modern writer? And where would I find info on them?
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http://jeanoram.com/blog/2012/03/16/tips-query-stand-out/ Jean Oram

I think as agents get busier and busier it will become increasingly important for writers to know their market and be able to illustrate that fact in their queries. In fact I was just blogging about how we can do that!

Great, ideas. Thanks for the agent’s perspective.
http://redbuildcredit.blogspot.com/2012/02/credit-keeper.html Credit Keeper

Great article! I loved the insight and the information given . Additionally, your writing style is very pleasing to read. If you have time please make sure you visit my brand new blog and let me know what you think.
Tamara Branch

Very helpful. I am just about finished a draft of a nonfiction inspirational book for preteens and teen girls. I love this book and know it has hage brand and series potential. will take this advice to heart. Thanks so much.
Elizabeth McBride

Thank you for the informative post. I am wondering if it is advisable or appropriate for an author to work with different agents for different kinds of projects, or if one should try to find an agent willing to represent several genres of writing? In short, I’m really asking if the agent is the agent for that author, or the individual piece of work that they have contracted with that author? Thank you in advance!
http://stefanbathory777 film 2013

Aw, this was a really nice post. In idea I wish to put in writing like this moreover – taking time and actual effort to make an excellent article… however what can I say… I procrastinate alot and under no circumstances seem to get one thing done.
Naomi Hughes

Great post, Rachelle! I really enjoyed it. As far as agents impressing writers, I tend to gravitate toward agents who have at least a few of these traits: 1) have a helpful, encouraging, honest blog (or are helpful, encouraging and honest on Twitter). 2) A fun personality (though still professional, much like your advice on how writers should present themselves–especially on social media!). 3) Respond to queries within a reasonable time (i.e., a few weeks is always nice, a few days is terrific). 4) Have interviews available for research (so I can say “I chose to query you because you like boy POV/snark/fun fantasy”). And finally, 5) Have an up-to-date website with plentiful info on themselves and their agency.
http://Www.lisaphillipsbks.com Lisa Phillips

I recently got a contract with Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense an one thing I LOVE is that if you include a self addressed post card with a stamp they sent it back. You know they received it.

They also did an online speed date pitch where the response was instantaneous!

But that’s just a thought…
http://kirabudge.weebly.com Kira Budge

As others have said, I appreciate it when agents actually reply to my submissions, and even more if they give me a little bit of feedback! I also love it when they have really good blogs (this one is honestly one of my favorites). Seeing them interact with ‘normal people’ is really cool.