How to find an agent for your novel
Literary agents are usually regarded as one of two things - either as parasites, or as angels. The reality is simple. YOU NEED AN AGENT. The reality is also that YOU WON'T FIND ONE ON THE INTERNET. Many aspiring authors think they can go straight to publishers without using the services of an agent. We would warn strongly against this. The publisher will take you much more seriously if you are represented, as it already suggests a third party believes strongly in you. So, in short, get an Agent! But how??? That question is answered in the course, but here's a few questions YOU should be asking the agent!
- How long have they been established?
- Who do they currently have on their books?
- What Trade Associations are they a member of?
- Does the agent deal in world rights, or assignment by territory?
- Do they attend global trade fares? (e.g. Frankfurt)
- Does the agent have any entries into the world of Film or TV?
- Can they promote your work into different media? Examples?
- How closely does your agent want to be involved in your writing? (some agents like to get involved in the early stages of planning a new book, some don't. Some like to make suggestions nearer the end).
- Does the agency have any preferential contract terms with big publishers?
- Will they coordinate your role in the publisher's marketing strategy?
- Will you be able to request sales information regularly
There are, of course, many more things you should be asking your literary agent - consult the course for more details - Click here 
