“But what does that even MEAN?” For writers in the “query trenches” this is a common question upon receiving a query rejection that has feedback attached. While we literary agents try to keep our thoughts clear and concise, it may not always land that way. While I can’t speak for all literary agents and what their seemingly vague feedback really means, I can provide you with some insight into what it probably means- and what you can do about it before you send out another query. So, if you’ve received feedback on your query or proposal that has you scratching your head, this blog post is for you.
Agent Feedback: This is too similar to what’s already on the market
Translation: Congratulations, you’ve identified a common felt need! Unfortunately, this kind of book has been written lots of times in the same way, and the market is now saturated. Let’s say your book is a nonfiction title about parenthood. In order to stand out among the many parenting books available, you will need to make yours different (read: specific) enough that your book is needed among all of the others. Who, specifically does your parenting book serve? Perhaps it is parents with neurodivergent children, or parents who are also entrepreneurs but have trouble balancing their work with family. Do you see how taking the greater demographic of all parents, and shrinking it down to a specific group of parents makes this book more marketable? This is the time to get specific, and really know why your book deserves a place among the others.
Agent Feedback: Take some time to strengthen your skillset and read more widely in your genre
Translation: This is feedback that could mean something a little different in every scenario, but the overall gist is that you’re not quite ready for publishing. There’s no shame in receiving this feedback, and it’s so valuable. Knowing what you need to do in order to grow into the author you one day dream of being is half the battle. Maybe your dialogue isn’t quite as sharp or true to character as it needs to be in your novel, or your synopsis doesn’t feel compelling enough. Perhaps your concept is wonderful, but the way you’ve formatted the book doesn’t take the reader on the growth journey it needs to. Remember, publishing is a marathon, not a sprint. Take the time to consider what your current skillset is lacking. Do you need to take a class, attend a workshop, or read more about the craft of writing? Who is writing in your genre that’s currently successful? Read those books, take note of not just the basics, but the artistic styling of the written word on every page. I guarantee that the author you’re thinking of has done the hard work at the start to become who they are today.
Agent Feedback: You need a stronger platform
Translation: You need a stronger platform. I’m KIDDING. We all knew I’d have to list this one, right? While platform is important to publishers because it shows them you have an audience built-in and eager to read your books, this doesn’t mean you need to have thousands upon thousands of followers and subscribers (though that would be nice). What I really want to see as an agent is that you’re already doing the work necessary to grow your platform, and it’s working. This means you’re active on social media. You serve your followers with content that relates to the kind of books you want to write. You have a website with your name, and you’re serving people there too. You have a growing email list of subscribers. The most successful platforms are always created by authors who show up in authentic ways that connect with readers. It feels real. It feels unique. It feels fun or meaningful. How can you create a community that feels excited about your work? That’s where the gold is.
Agent Feedback: This isn’t a fit for me
Translation: This is feedback that is going to be very personal to each agent. It could mean that they already have a similar project on their list, and they don’t want to create competition among clients. This could also mean that it’s not a genre they represent, or the project itself is one they don’t feel enthusiastic about (something most agents will want to feel for projects they sell). The reasons behind an agent’s lack of feeling like a project is one they want to represent will vary, but if no other feedback is provided, there’s no reason to automatically assume there are issues with your query, proposal, or project overall. If you find yourself on the receiving end of “This isn’t a fit for me” feedback again and again, it’s time to take a look at the agents your querying (and what they are looking for), and re-evaluating your query. Is it presenting the hook of your book well? Does it make the agent want to learn more? Are you providing enough information about yourself, and your writing experience? Take an objective look at what an agent is reading when it lands in their inbox, and get insight into how you can improve.
I hope this was helpful. Have you received feedback that helped you in your writing journey? Let us know!
Want to work with our team of agents to receive one-to-one feedback on your project? Check out our upcoming Books & Such Writing Intensive, where writers spend three days learning, connecting, and working on their project with the help of our team! You can learn more here!
Are you looking for more writing advice from literary agents? We’ve got you covered with our Books & Such Literary Management Podcast, where our team of agents discuss the writing life, publishing, and more. You can listen here!
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