How to become a literary agent

Is becoming a literary agent right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do literary agents do?

Still unsure if becoming a literary agent is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a literary agent or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become a Literary Agent

Becoming a literary agent involves a combination of education, experience, and industry knowledge.

  • Education and Background: To become a literary agent, start by obtaining a relevant educational background, typically a Bachelor’s Degree in English, Literature, Communications, or a related field. Many agents also have experience in publishing, journalism, or law, which can provide valuable skills and insights into the industry.
  • Gain Experience: Experience in the publishing industry is vital. Consider internships or entry-level positions at literary agencies, publishing houses, or editorial roles to gain practical knowledge and industry connections. This hands-on experience will help you understand the publishing process and build a network of contacts.
  • Develop Industry Knowledge: Stay informed about current trends in publishing, including popular genres, market demands, and emerging authors. Read extensively, attend literary events, and follow industry news to understand what makes a manuscript appealing to publishers and what types of deals are being made.
  • Build a Network: Networking is essential for a successful career as a literary agent. Attend industry conferences, writer’s workshops, and book fairs to meet authors, editors, and other agents. Building relationships with these professionals can help you identify potential clients and gain valuable insights into the industry.
  • Start as an Assistant or Sub-Agent: Consider starting as an assistant at a literary agency or working as a sub-agent specializing in specific rights, such as foreign or audio rights. These positions provide experience and help you learn the intricacies of agenting while working under established agents.
  • Develop a Specialization: Having a niche or specialization can be beneficial. Whether it’s a specific genre, type of content, or demographic, developing expertise in a particular area can help you stand out and attract authors who write in that niche.
  • Launch Your Own Agency or Join an Established One: With sufficient experience and a strong network, you can either join an established literary agency or start your own. If starting your own agency, ensure you have the necessary resources, industry connections, and a clear business plan to support and manage your clients effectively.

Helpful Resources
Utilizing a variety of resources can significantly aid in becoming a successful literary agent by providing essential knowledge, networking opportunities, and industry insights.

  • Industry Associations: Joining industry associations such as the Association of Authors' Representatives (AAR) and the Association of American Publishers (AAP) provides valuable resources, networking opportunities, and industry insights. These organizations offer professional development, industry news, and access to events where you can connect with other professionals in the field.
  • Publishing Industry Conferences and Workshops: Attending conferences and workshops like the Writer's Digest Conference, BookExpo, or the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference can be highly beneficial. These events offer sessions on industry trends, networking opportunities, and workshops on various aspects of publishing and literary representation.
  • Books and Guides: Several books and guides provide useful information for aspiring literary agents. Titles such as "The Literary Agent’s Guide to the Book Market" by Laura Rennert and "The Writer’s Market" by Robert Lee Brewer offer insights into the agenting process, market trends, and how to navigate the publishing industry.
  • Online Courses and Webinars: Online platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Publishers Weekly offer courses and webinars on topics related to publishing and literary representation. These resources can help you develop skills, understand industry practices, and stay updated on the latest trends and tools.
  • Industry Publications: Reading industry publications such as Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and The Bookseller provides valuable information on market trends, book reviews, and industry news. These publications help you stay informed about new developments and emerging authors, which is crucial for making informed decisions as a literary agent.
  • Networking Opportunities: Participating in local writing groups, online forums, and social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn can help you build connections with authors, editors, and other literary professionals. Networking in these communities can lead to valuable relationships and opportunities in the publishing world.