How to Get a Literary Agent
If you have completed a novel, film or drama script and want to get it published or put into a dramatic form then you should find a literary agent to give this script into right hands.
A literary agent, also known as publishing agent, is a person who introduces the writer and his work to the publishers, film and TV producers or directors. He also offers his services in making contracts and ensuring the payments. Basically, a literary agent plays the role of a mediator between the writer and publisher.
However, getting a professional literary agent is not that easy. You should keep couple of important things in mind.
Instructions
-
1
What type of agent do you need:
First of all, you should determine what type of literary agent will be able to help you. This purely depends on the nature of your script. You should review the script and find out the genre. If it has been written for enactment purpose then you should look for the agent who can introduce you to a film or TV producer. -
2
Do some research:
Now, when you know the type of your script, you should start looking for the agent. The best way is to do some research and make a list of prominent names of the market. You may use internet for this purpose as almost every professional agent has an official website or page on social networking website. If you have some relation with an experienced writer, then ask your friend to suggest a name. This will be really helpful in getting a good literary agent. -
3
Write a query letter:
After short listing the names, you need to draft an effective query letter. This note will comprise your introduction, past experience and the synopsis of your novel, drama or any other script. Writing a perfect letter is very important as it your best shot to convince the agent to represent you. Keep in mind that you are not supposed to send the whole script along with this letter. However, you can ask them for a meeting to discuss the script in detail. -
4
Have a detailed meeting :
Last but not the least, you will meet that agent and cover all the aspects of this deal. You must decide his commission before the book goes into publishing or shooting procedure.
