10 Common Mistakes Writers Make When Approaching Literary Agents

So, you’ve finally finished pouring your heart and soul into your manuscript. You finally have your masterpiece, and you can’t wait to share it with the whole world. But, finding the right literary agent who will value your work and get it the recognition it deserves can be quite challenging. 

Many aspiring authors struggle in finding a suitable literary representation. After all, they are armed with very little knowledge and a lot of determination. Lucky for you, their lessons can help you find the right agent. 

To give you an idea, here are some of these mistakes and how you can overcome them in your search.

1. Not Researching Literary Agents Properly

Finding the right agent can be a bit like sailing in the open seas, but instead of a map and a compass, you are going off your gut feeling.

That’s what it feels like when a writer in California does not research California literary agents before asking them questions. Each agent has their specific preferences, specialties, and some downsides. 

That is why you should take the time to find agents who have a passion for your genre and a track record of success. Then, dive into their client list, recent deals, and submission guidelines. 

You need to show them that you are someone who genuinely believes they could be the perfect match for your book, and you are not just randomly throwing your manuscript at every agent out there.

2. Sending Generic Query Letters

Imagine receiving a personalized letter simply addressed “To Whom It May Concern.” It doesn’t really sound that good, does it? 

Well, a lot of professionals, including literary agents feel the same when they receive generic query letters. 

That is why your query should be a love letter to your book and specific to the agent you’re addressing. You should personalize each query, mentioning why you’re reaching out to that specific agent by name, and how your book aligns with their interests. 

Show them you’ve done your homework and that you’re not simply sending out bulk emails to every literary agent in the directory.

3. Failing to Follow Submission Guidelines

You know those furniture assembly instructions that people sometimes ignore because they think they can handle it themselves? Well, that rule does not apply to submission guidelines. 

Each literary agent has their own set of rules for submissions. If you fail to follow them, you can be sure that your query will land in their rejection pile. 

Whether they prefer Times New Roman or Comic Sans, one-inch margins or double spacing, you should strictly follow their lead. This will also show them that you respect their time and professionalism.

4. Not Having a Polished Manuscript

Imagine having some guests over for dinner with a very messy house and burnt food. That is exactly the impression you will leave if you query agents with an unpolished manuscript. 

That is why, make sure your manuscript shines brighter than a freshly polished apple before you send out those queries.

You can even hire a professional editor or gather feedback from beta readers. With a polished manuscript, you can show agents you are serious about your craft and ready to step up in the game.

5. Getting Discouraged by Rejection

There is no doubt that rejection stings, but you have to remember that it is a part of the journey. 

Many successful authors have wallpapered their rooms with rejection letters before finding their literary soulmates. Instead of feeling down, you should use rejection as fuel to improve. 

Request feedback from agents who provide it, and don’t take it personally. At the end of the day, you need to keep pushing forward and keep on searching for the right agent.

6. Putting All Your Eggs in One Basket

You should not pin all your hopes on one agent, no matter how dreamy they may seem. 

Instead, you need to cast a wide net and query multiple agents at the same time. With all the people you will be in contact with, you need to keep track of who you’ve talked to and their responses, from the beginning till the end. 

You need to stay flexible and be prepared to adjust your strategy based on feedback. After all, there are plenty of literary agents in the publishing world and you can’t be discouraged if one does not pick you.

7. Neglecting to Build an Online Presence

In today’s digital age, having an online presence is incredibly important. Many literary agents will Google your name after reading your query to learn more about you. If they don’t find anything, that could be a reason for them not to choose you. So, make sure they find something impressive about your and your work.

You can start by creating an author website, engaging on social media platforms that are relevant to your genre, and even starting a blog to showcase your writing skills. 

8. Ignoring Networking Opportunities

Writing may be a solitary pursuit, but publishing is a team sport. Don’t underestimate the power of networking in your journey to finding a literary agent. 

Attend writing conferences, join online writing communities, and participate in local writing groups. You never know who you might meet or what valuable advice you might receive. 

Building relationships with fellow writers, editors, and industry professionals can open doors and provide invaluable support along the way.

9. Underestimating the Importance of a Strong Opening

You know how you only get one chance to make a first impression? Well, the same holds true for your manuscript’s opening pages. 

Literary agents receive hundreds of queries every week, so your opening lines need to grab their attention and refuse to let go. Spend extra time crafting a compelling hook that makes agents desperate to read more. 

Whether it’s a shocking revelation, a gripping action scene, or a tantalizing mystery, make sure your opening packs a punch.

10. Failing to Highlight Your Unique Selling Points

Imagine you’re at a job interview, and the interviewer asks why they should hire you. Your response? Silence? Don’t let this happen with your query letter. Highlight your book’s unique selling points and what sets it apart from the competition. 

Whether it’s a fresh twist on a familiar trope, a diverse cast of characters, or a timely theme, make sure agents know why your book is a must-read. Show them why they’d be crazy to pass up the opportunity to represent you.