Laura's tips for finding an agent

This post is the second in a series about how I got my agent. If you missed the first, in which I introduced my fabulous new agent, you can read it here:

• Introducing my agent: Laura Nolan

In this post Laura answers some questions you may have about how and why she decided she wanted to represent me and what you can do to help find your own agent.

1) What was it about my query letter that got your attention? What convinced you that you wanted to read more?

Your description was intriguing and it helped that you were referred by someone I knew and trusted.  Your website was professional and it looked like you were engaging with an audience already.

2) What was it about my chapters that convinced you that you wanted to work with me?

I felt that the story is interesting and the emotional journey you went on is a universal one.  I felt the work could attract many different kinds of readers – those interested in Afghanistan and those who want to understand how to overcome self-doubt and adversity.

3) What are you looking forward to about working together on Zen Under Fire?

I look forward to working with Marianne to make this story as powerful and as universal as possible.  Marianne has had an extraordinary life experience and I want to help her share this with as many readers as she can.

4) Any tips for writers who are looking for an agent?

Do as much research as possible.  Subscribe to www.publishersmarketplace.com and find out which agents (us only) represent what kinds of projects and make sure you target the appropriate ones.  In your pitch letter, mention the other successful books your book will resemble in some way.  It’s helpful for an agent – and eventually an editor – to place the work in a context of another book or books that have paved the way in that genre.  Author platform is key – do whatever you can to “own” your area of expertise.  Build the platform first or as you revise your writing.  Get that website up, start your Facebook page, join Twitter.  Build your audience.  It’s important to come to an agent with an existing audience.

Thanks Laura!

If you would like to find out more about Laura the best way to do that is to follow her on Twitter. Twitter is the best way to contact her as well. If you are an aspiring author and you are not on Twitter I highly recommend that you join now. I’m planning a post soon on how to make Twitter work for you.

Related posts coming soon:

    * How I got my agent
    * How Twitter helped me get an agent
    * How my blog helped me get an agent

If you don't want to miss out on these posts you can subscribe by using the link in the left side bar. Thanks!

Comments

[Andi]

Been away for a while, as I was in Brasil! This post was really helpful. I have such a desire to write a book...so in the future when I finally do it I'll know how to look for an agent thanks to you. :)

[Alexis Grant]

Love that you've teamed up with your agent to get some helpful information out to the rest of us who hope to follow in your shoes! Keep it up.