Go On, Pitch Your Book To An Agent
But first, read these tips from two experts
A couple of weeks ago I attended a local Writers Workshop hosted by Bucks Book Fest. Two literary agents spoke to a packed audience of apt writers and aspiring authors. One agent spoke about “publishing choices” and the other spoke on how to pitch to agents and publishers.
Pitch to Agent Takeaway Advice
Below are my pitch-to-agent tip takeaways and the links of these fabulous experts. Marie Lamba is a literary agent at the Jennifer De Chiara Literary Agency in NYC.
When pitching to literary agents:
*** Do not bring food or gifts for the agent . (lol, you have to appreciate the creativity of some people, though)
*** Be Prepared. Have your elevator pitch nailed down as well as a two sentence or three sentence pitch. (An elevator pitch is a description of your book that you can share in the time of an elevator ride - pithy and interesting)
*** Don't forget your word count! Have a word count ready to share in your pitch as well. (Word count is vital information to an agent so be prepared with the information at the ready) At the link is a blog post on word count by the Bookends Literary Agency which gives general ideas on word count by genre…there is a short video on the subject as well.
*** Make the Most of Your Time with the Agent. If the agent is not interested in your manuscript, for example, ask what you could change or ideas to make it better. You usually have a set time with the agent so use it to your advantage.
Call to Action
Marie Lamba is accepting query submissions from authors. Have a look at her page and do a little research on the material she is looking to represent. If you are a good fit, submit a pitch.
Fabulous Resource
Marie also wrote a blog for many years with tips and stories for writers. She is an author as well and many of her stories are sure to resonate and buoy you. I am enjoying her blog and will share one of my favorites in the Tidings & Tidbits #3 this week!
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Sarah Fisk is a literary agent with the Tobias Literary Agency and spoke on publishing choices. You can find out more about Sarah Fisk at her website: Sarah Nicolas.com.
Sarah mentioned:
*** “publishing programs” are not worth it. Publishing programs are companies like BookBaby, LuLu, Press Book, etc. (They used to be called “vanity presses.”) Sarah specifically stated that if an author must pay an organization to publish their book than it is not a traditional publisher.
This idea of “publishing program vs hybrid publisher” can get a bit confusing because there are hybrid publishers out there that are very reputable. How to tell the difference? One way to determine validity is if the “publisher” partners with you and has a vested interest in making money on the sale of your book. Chances are, with skin in the game, they are reputable. I found an article from author and writing coach, Tiffany Hawk that explains a bit more on how to identify the difference in publishing programs.
*** Sarah warned of scams in her presentation and encouraged authors who did not want or could not find a traditional publishing contract to consider making the decision to self-publish.
*** Sarah emphasized that making the decision to self-publish is to own and run a business. It’s a fantastic point.
Both literary agents are published authors themselves. They understand how difficult and heartbreaking it is to try to get published. Their honesty (and humor), along with their experienced advice was fantastic. I mention their individual sites with additional information above. Have a look if you get a moment. Better, yet, send them a query pitch!
Finally, check your local for local “book fest” organizations near you. This writer’s workshop was so reasonably priced at $30 and a great way to learn, get re-energized to write and to simply be around other writers. The room was packed and full of great energy.
Please share any questions, comments, or your own advice on publishing or pitching related to the above. As always, thanks for reading.
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