**Theres an online debate right now on whether its considered rude for an agent to ask a writer which other agents are offering representation (personally I'm all for full disclosure--but I won't ask you to weigh in on that one!) Along a similiar line, though, if a writer and agent are in serious negotiations for representation, is is considered rude for the writer to ask for recommendations from the agent's other clients?
As far as the first issue, I am not sure what knowing that information would gain. I am not so sure about the rudeness of it, I just don't see why I would need to know. My assumption is that you are indeed looking to other places. So what. The only time that would be an issue is if you have sent it to multiple agents in the same house, which is a "no no."
The second issue is certainly not rude. Talking to the clients of that agent is perfectly fine. This is just market research. I will tell you though, I seriously doubt anyone will say anything bad about their agent so again, what do you gain?
**When an agent requests a full, what is an appropriate turn around time for the writer? I've heard recently during a conference from a panel of editors/agents that an immediate turn around might convey the impression that the writer is careless, but wouldn't too much lag time project the same attitude?
First of all, let me say a couple of things. There are several agents and editors out there that request fulls of everyone. Their comment... "I don't have the heart to tell them no in the beginning." Personally I think that is a bummer but that is simply the way it is. Now, as far as the turn around time, I can only tell you my perspective. Since I only request a full from something I REALLY have the interest in, they you send it immediately. There is no reason to delay. The thought that a fast turn around time implies carelessness is (IMHO) stupid. If you are pitching a completed project, I have to assume it is ready to go. If it isn't, my question to you is, "Why are you talking to me in the first place?"
**I've noticed that most of my favorite writers have an extensive English education background (coincidental? hmmmmm) While I will do everything I can to produce quality, clean copy, how much does the occasional grammatical error in a submission sway your opinion? Will a fresh idea and voice carry a submission that might be slightly weak in craft?
Occasional grammar errors are not a major stumbling block. In fact, there are many agents that I talk to that openly admit they have no clue about most of the grammar issues. They are only reading for content. With that said though, remember that if a document is full of grammar mistakes (including typos and spelling errors), this becomes too distracting and then becomes an easy NO. And yes, I have rejected people on grammar.
Hope this helps?
Have a great weekend everyone!
Scott
Yes this has been very helpful, thank you. I am just in the research stage before i go agent hunting.
ReplyDelete**When an agent requests a full, what is an appropriate turn around time for the writer? I've heard recently during a conference from a panel of editors/agents that an immediate turn around might convey the impression that the writer is careless, but wouldn't too much lag time project the same attitude?
ReplyDeleteI can speak from personal experience that I've had agents/editors take from four weeks to two months reading my full ms they requested. In all instances, the answer was the same, no. It is my opinion there is really no right or wrong answer.
An agent/editor is a person, we all need to remember that. I'm sure that take only the time they need, no more, no less. I currently have a full ms to an agent and it's been a month already. I'm not holding my breath. I know she'll get back to me when she's ready.
On the first half of your response Scott, I agree, there are agents that will request a full ms from everyone. I've found that you usually can tell whether or not it's a true interest in your work or when it's a standard request. The signs are there and it's good to know up front, the kind of agent your dealing with. I've learned many lessons already but just that.
Great blog!