Blogger: Rachelle Gardner
It’s that time of year in which many of us are headed to writers’ conferences. I’ve noticed there are plenty of blog posts with tips for authors attending conferences… but for some reason, we never see advice for agents! I guess we’re supposed to know this stuff by osmosis or something.
So as we head into conference season, I wanted to remind myself of the important things I think about when I’m at a conference having one-on-one meetings with writers. Herewith, my notes for myself, i.e…
Top 10 tips for agents:
1. Dear agent, it’s not about you. Sometimes it’s not easy sitting through pitches one after the other. But the writer may have paid a lot of money to be at the conference, and they also used up their precious “agent meeting” slot on you. They’ve probably been thinking about this meeting for days or even weeks. They deserve your very best, even if it stretches you. Even if you’re tired.
2. Everything you say will have an impact on a new writer. Good or bad, it will stick with them. Choose words carefully.
3. Writers are getting conflicting advice from other agents, editors and workshops. Don’t berate them for doing something “wrong” like bringing a proposal. Or not bringing one. Give them credit for trying. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
4. This may the most vulnerable a writer has ever felt. This may be the first time they’ve brought their baby out to show the world. If their baby isn’t cute, find a nice way to say it.
5. Maintain a spirit of humility. Cultivate a servant mindset. Constantly ask yourself how you can serve the writer in front of you.
6. A smile goes a long way. Use it to make others feel comfortable.
7. Offer helpful advice. If you need to say, “It doesn’t sound like this project is for me,” then try to follow it up with, “but can I offer you some input?” Then you can give them some helpful advice, either about their project, about the market, or about their pitch.
8. Be kind. If you’re having a rough day… if you’re exhausted from teaching workshops and taking meetings one after the other… remember that a word of encouragement can help a writer, and a dismissive word can wound them—and come back to haunt you.
9. Represent the publishing industry well. You’re there to find good writers, but you’re also there as a representative of the publishing industry. You are comfortable there, while many writers are not. You have nothing at stake; they might feel like everything’s at stake. Treat them well and make us all look good.
10. Your next great client might be the person sitting across from you. Of course, this one’s not hard to remember. That’s why you’re here!
Treat writers as you’d like to be treated, and remember that your words will be remembered. Be nice, be helpful, and everybody wins.
Any more advice for agents and editors in pitch meetings?
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Shirlee Abbott
I want #8 framed and hung in my office. Be kind. Even if you’re having a rough day.
It is all good advice, Rachelle, for everybody. God bless all the Books & Such encouragers, aka agents.
Hannah Vanderpool
“Treat writers as you’d like to be treated, and remember that your words will be remembered.”
Exactly. One could substitute “your kids,” “your spouse,” “your co-worker,” for “writers” and still be absolutely correct. Thanks for helping us to remember that we’re ALL human beings, even at a conference, and that maybe that includes agents, too. 😀
Richard Mabry
Rachelle, as someone who’s been on the other side of interviews with agents, editors, and publishers, I’d like to thank you for posting this.
With very few exceptions, I’ve encountered folks across the table (or coffee cup or lunch table) who’ve been very kind to a nervous author. And even those who gave a first impression that made me shy away, when I got to know them, were pretty nice folks. Thanks for the reminder.
John Wells
The Golden Rule never goes out of vogue, no matter what circumstances. “Do Unto Others….” is good business, leisure, or stressful occasions. It’s also saves time; one doesn’t have to memorize ten rules of conduct. Only one other thing to remember: it’s hard to lie when you’re looking someone in the eye!
Cathy West
These are all awesome, but then again, coming from you, of course they are! 🙂 I have to confess that some of my worst moments were sitting across the dreaded table at conferences … simply said, some of us just don’t do well in these situations. I’ve seen writers coming out of appointments in tears. I’ve felt that way too a few times. It’s so hard. I remember, years ago, thinking the entire world balanced on those crucial ten minutes … it doesn’t, and I’d love to be able to convince new writers of that, but I think we have to come to this realization in our own way. Meeting a friendly agent or editor who can be encouraging, even when they’re not interested, that’s golden. I’m confident in saying all of our Books & Such agents exemplify all the points you’ve stated, and anyone pitching to them this conference season will be blessed no matter the outcome.
Kristen Joy Wilks
It is a very vulnerable place to sit in and if the writer is at a big conference they might have been saving for years just to be able to come. All of the people that I’ve pitched to have been respectful and kind. I really appreciate that. I’ve gotten a tougher skin over the years, but those early years came rushing back as I was asked to look over the first novel of a young writer friend. She is so young and starry-eyed and talented. How, oh how do I help without wounding? I prayed a lot as I critiqued her manuscript and she seemed to take my suggestions with a mature attitude, but it is scary, wondering if you will discourage a new writer with your well-meaning advice.
Jeanne Takenaka
I love these tips, Rachelle. And, as others have mentioned, these points transcend the agent-writer meeting and apply in all personal interactions.
It’s amazing how words and tones can uplift or bring down. It is our choice how we use them.
Sheila King
THIS is why the Books and Such blog has such a following and a stellar reputation.
I confess to having said, “My friend Rachelle says. . .” and then having to correct myself. If just feels like you are friends.
Shelli Littleton
So true, Sheila. Friends.
Shelli Littleton
I love this. It’s nice to remember both sides of the fence. Attending a conference is something I’ve been contemplating for well over a year. And I’ll work all summer to feel prepared. And a friend has already offered to share a room with me and help me prepare. 🙂 Thank you, Jennifer Major.
Jennifer Zarifeh Major
Awww, you’re welcome!
Because of my *extensive* conference attendance (ONE) I felt I was incredibly well qualified to help.
And by “help” I mean point out the kleenex and open and close the curtains.
Shelli Littleton
What curtains? 🙂
Jennifer Zarifeh Major
Fancy hotels have curtains on the windows.
At least, that’s what I’ve heard.
I only stay in hockey friendly hotels, and Bolivian tourist hostels.
Oh… and cruise ships.
Meghan Carver
Rachelle, I love this post and so appreciate your forthrightness. Every time I see your smiling picture, I think of the Indianapolis ACFW conference two years ago. I didn’t have an appointment with you, but I was scheduled to pick you up at the airport. Our communication was a little muddled and the schedule changed, but you approached me at the conference to thank me for my availability. You exemplified all these traits and represented the publishing industry well. Thank you.
LD Masterson
From that vulnerable person on the other side of the table…thank you.
Elissa
Rachelle,
This list is perfect. It should be included in whatever materials conferences send to attending agents. Of course, kindness is a two-way street, and I hope all attendees treat each other as they would like to be treated. Now, where have I heard that before…?
Patricia Smith Wood
What a lovely set of rules! Thank you so much for putting this out there for agents. You’ve reiterated the most helpful and sometimes difficult-to-remember advice, not only for agents, but for anyone trying to help people. Words can wound, but they can also offer hope, encouragement, and give a writer the courage to keep trying. Thank you, Rachel!
Janet Ann Collins
Before my first conference I thought editors and agents glowed in the dark. Be prepared for newbies to think they should worship you and to let them know you’re human. That should lessen the sting of rejections, at least a little bit.
Steve Novak
One of your best post, Rachelle! Aloha. Your advice applies to many situations and industries, and we should all keep these tips in mind.
Jill W
You’re a class act, Rachel. Thank you for this.
Kristy Cambron
This is an incredible post! YES to #4. (I was there a time or two or ten.) You offered #6, #7, #8 the first time we met. And… #9 and #10 have been amazing because I get to work with you! Thanks for writing this post and for weaving in a beautiful thread of empathy. Your heart is here, Rachelle.
Laura Weymouth
I only just discovered the Books and Such blog recently but I’ve been reading my way through your archives, and it has been a treat thus far. You ladies do a wonderful job of conveying professionalism while still offering up endless encouragement and a personal touch. Not only do you advise writers, you also exemplify the advice you give while writing for this blog. Thank you so much for all the kind and helpful words and for treating us struggling artists (who you see so many of) with respect.
Andrew Budek-Schmeisserl
Great list, for agents and everyone else. One addition I would make is to avoid the use of too much jargon. It can be distancing, creating an insider-outsider dichotomy.
Rachel Daven Skinner
Rachelle, I’ve had the pleasure of hearing you speak at a conference, and I was impressed then by your demeanor and character. This blog post beautifully embodies what I saw that day. I’m a freelance editor, and I’d be proud to refer authors to you.
bernicky
Number 8 – very important. I stopped writing for almost thirty years after one, almost casual, critique of a short story. I started back after realizing I still had stories I wanted to tell and tell my way. Number 8 should be number 1.
Great article, thank you.
Tammy
I just met with my first agent recently. She was wonderful. However, I would love to add just one other tip from the author perspective. Agents, please make sure your websites are clear concerning the types of books you publish. She admitted hers was not, so I pitched to the wrong agent. I did not mind because it was my first pitch, and I appreciated the practice and her feedback. But, I only had time for one pitch, so my chance was over…
H. Leighton Dickson
Hi Rachelle,
This is such a valuable post and I hope agents read it. I have had the unfortunate experience of signing with an agent and 2 1/2 years later, having to fire that agent. She was enthusiastic about the book but didn’t have the time/experience/contacts to sell it. I had already turned down several other agents to sign with her and am now in the odd position of deciding whether to contact them or just pack up and go home. So yes, Agents, think long and hard before you do this. Authors are trusting you with their careers.
Teresa
Years ago at my first conference, I sat down at a dinner table where one other person was already sitting. I thought maybe he was new, too, and I would introduce myself. I was shocked when he rudely said, “If I don’t represent you, you need to leave. I’m reserving this table for my clients.” He assumed I was trying to use the occasion to horn in on his time, but I didn’t have a clue he was an important agent. There was no reserved sign on the table. If I hadn’t traveled over 3,000 miles to get there, I would have left the conference. On a happy note, the next night I sat by Wendy Lawton! There wasn’t a warmer or friendlier person on the planet. She restored my faith.
Julie Garmon
Beautiful! Applies to more than being an agent. Applies to how we treat others~~~
Jessica Nelson
What a great list! The writer has definitely been thinking about things. Or in my case, stewing, fretting, screeching, writing, rewriting, worrying, venting…lol. The list goes on. It’s hard to explain to an agent but I love how you look at all the sides! Thanks!