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If you enjoy reading books and fancy yourself a person that knows how to recognize talent, then you might want to consider becoming a literary agent. You will have to work hard, spending your days reading new material and determining who has the possibility of becoming the next Stephen King, but think how elated you will be if you are the one to discover the next bestselling author. This guide will provide you with information on how to become a literary agent.
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Literary Agent's Responsibilities
One job of a literary agent is to respond to writers that have sent them samples to read. The majority of the time, the literary agent rejects the writer’s work, doing so by sending them a form letter. This video gives you an overview of the typical types of rejection letters literary agents send out, and proceeds to read several samples. Finally, the video highlights one acceptance letter, giving some insight into the process of rejection and acceptance in the literary industry.
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Introduction
Do you enjoy spending your free time curled up with a good book? Are you always keeping your eye out for the next big thing in the literary world, an author that is sure to make the New York Time's Bestseller list? If so, you might want to consider seeking a career as a literary agent. Your job will allow you to read new manuscripts constantly, all in search of the next James Patterson. This guide will provide you with information on how to become a literary agent. -
Step 1: What is a Literary Agent?
A literary agent is someone that finds and packages talent in the literary world. They spend long hours each day reading new manuscripts, determining which authors have the potential to achieve success selling books. If you are an aspiring literary agent, you will need to have an understanding of the publishing business, getting to know the right people in the right publishing houses so you will know who to take proposals to once you find the perfect new author or book. -
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Step 2: Education
There are no specific education requirements for those seeking a job as a literary agent. In fact, many aspirng agents may only have two years worth of college or none at all. However, it is a good idea to at least get a Bachelor's degree. You may want to consider majoring in one of the following:
- English
- Business
- Journalism
- Creative Writing
- Advertising or Marketing
Step 3: Gain Experience
As with most jobs, you will want to gain as much experience as possible before you seek out that perfect job. One benefit of receiving a college degree is that you can also apply for an internship at a publishing house or literary agency, either of which will provide you with an excellent opportunity to learn about the publishing business. All literary agents should have a solid understanding of how publishing works, so even if an internship is not part of your training, you should consider spending at least some time working at a publishing house, even if it means an entry level position answering phones.Some literary agents work as editors or writers prior to becoming agents. This allows them to make the necessary contacts that will ultimately help them achieve success. In addition, all aspiring agents should continue reading as much as possible, keeping abreast of the latest trends and new talent.
Step 4: Seek Employment
Once you have schooled yourself in the publishing world and have made some contacts, you should start looking for a job as an agent. You may choose one of the larger, well known agencies or a smaller one. Keep in mind you will likely need to live in New York City if you are not there already, as most of the major players work out of Manhattan.Conclusion
If you love spending your days reading and are interested in learning all about the publishing industry, then you might want to consider becoming a literary agent. You will be on the front lines finding all the new talent, not to mention having the opportunity to get paid to read daily. The above guide will get you started on how to join the exciting world of a literary agent.Resources Powered by Google
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Warnings and Cautions for Writers--Literary Agents
To become a successful agent, you need a range of highly specialized expertise, ... Ten Percent of Nothing: The Case of the Literary Agent From Hell <...sfwa.org -
Literary Agent Profile - How to Become a Literary Agent
Literary agents, like agents in Hollywood, find and represent literary talent. As authors' representatives, literary agents try to land book deals for th...mediacareers.about.com -
The Most Asked Questions
What is the agent's background? Nobody trains in college to become an agent. Of the approximately 600 literary agents in the United States, ......adlerbooks.com -
Word Smitten interviews Literary Agent Eric Simonoff :: A ...
"It had never occurred to me to become a literary agent," he says. "My dream had always been to be an editor. The relationship between author and agent wordsmitten.comHow to Become a Literary Agent | eHow.com
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Questions and Answers About How To Become A Literary Agent
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literary criticicisms of Small Fry by Anton Chekhov 1 AnswerReception to Chekhov's short stories varied widely during his lifetime. Chekhov was often vilified in the press for his alleged indifference to the dolor of man... read more -
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Anyone know how or where can I reach a literary agent? 1 AnswerGood luck with your writing career. Below is a Literary agent directory. http://www.writers.net/agents.html Some useful information on selecting an agent, wha... read more
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