There has been a lot of gossip lately (as well as talk at conferences) about how many agents out there are "really only out for the money." I should note this is coming from published writers.
When I heard this, I almost choked. Sure, there are writers out there that might be scum of the Earth, but for the most part, many agents really are trying very hard to sell their authors books. Remember, this is the only way we make money too!
Most of the comments have come from the low finances coming to the writers from contracts sold to publishers. In the writers eyes (again, I am referring to those that make these comments) the low money is due to the agents being really selfish. WRONG!
There are a lot of factors working against us as agents right now:
The economy.
The publishers not buying.
The writers sending poor quality writing.
The fast turn over of writers resulting in lower contracts.
I am sure I can go on for some time with this. I think the biggest thing I want to stress is that all agents are not bad. The majority have good hearts. The majority really do want to see their authors successfull. They are not simply in it to become the next "CEO of their agency."
For you writers out there, the key is to find an agent that is best for you. Find someone that truly fits.
Scott