Finding an Agent: The Pros and Cons, Why and Why Not, How To Find One or How To Be Your Own
- Richelle Putnam
- Jun 6
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 7
Do you need a literary agent—or do you just want one?
It’s an important question, and the answer can shape the entire path of your writing career. The world of publishing isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is the journey to get there. Some writers thrive with an agent by their side. Others land book deals on their own. Many go hybrid—navigating both worlds.
So, let’s break it down together: the pros and cons, the why and why not, and most importantly, how to find an agent—or how to be your own.
The Pros of Having a Literary Agent
Access to Top Publishers: Many traditional publishers won’t accept unsolicited manuscripts. An agent opens the door to those houses.
Industry Expertise: Agents know contracts, negotiation, and market trends. They can help shape your proposal or manuscript for better success.
Professional Advocacy: A good agent doesn’t just find deals—they fight for better ones.
Long-Term Partnership: Many agents build a career with you, helping you grow and evolve over multiple books and genres.
The Cons (and Realities) of Agent Representation
Hard to Get: Literary agents are flooded with queries. Rejections are the norm—even for great writing.
No Guarantees: Signing with an agent doesn’t promise a book deal. Some books never sell, even with representation.
Commission Cuts: Agents typically earn 15% of domestic sales (and 20–25% on foreign rights). This is fair, but it’s a consideration.
Creative Differences: Not all agents are a fit forever. Breakups can and do happen.
The Market Is Changing—And So Are the Options
Self-publishing, hybrid publishing, and boutique presses have changed the game. Now, writers can succeed without an agent, especially in genres like romance, mystery, and nonfiction.
Still, in traditional fiction, agents are often the best route to getting your book on the shelf at Barnes & Noble.
Bottom line? Your publishing path should fit your goals—not someone else’s model.
How to Find (and Land) a Literary Agent
Step 1: Do Your Research - Use tools like:
QueryTracker – to track submissions and agent preferences
Manuscript Wishlist – to see what agents are actively seeking
Publishers Marketplace – to view recent deals and agent reputations
Step 2: Perfect Your Query - A query is a one-page pitch. It should include:
A compelling hook
A short synopsis
Bio (relevant writing credits or platform)
Need help? Try Writer’s Digest for examples of successful queries.
Step 3: Submit and Wait (and Wait) - Response times can range from weeks to months. Rejections are often form letters. Don’t take them personally—and keep going.
Red Flags to Watch For
Reading fees: Legit agents don’t charge upfront. Period.
Vague or no track record: Google them. Check deal history and client lists.
Pressure or secrecy: A reputable agent welcomes questions and explains their process.
Consult Writer Beware for scams and warnings.
How to Be Your Own Agent
Whether you're self-publishing, submitting directly to small presses, or simply not ready to query agents yet, acting as your own agent requires strategy, organization, and persistence. Here's how to wear that hat—and wear it well.
1. Know Your Rights (and Your Worth)
Before signing anything, educate yourself about publishing contracts. Understand terms like:
Advance
Royalty percentages
Rights reversion
Territorial rights
Subsidiary rights (e.g., film, audio, translation)
Resources to help:
2. Submit Directly (Where You Can)
Many reputable indie and small publishers accept unagented submissions. Focus on those that:
Have a strong catalog in your genre
Are transparent about their royalty structure
Offer professional editing and marketing support
Start here:
Duotrope – Database of publishers and submission calls
Publisher websites (always check submission guidelines carefully)
3. Build a Professional Author Presence
Even if you don’t have an agent, you can still look like a pro:
Create a clean, updated author website
Build your email list and maintain a newsletter
Maintain active, authentic social media presence (especially in your genre)
This boosts credibility when pitching directly to editors, book reviewers, event organizers, and potential readers.
4. Track Everything
Agents track submissions obsessively—and you should too.
Create a spreadsheet for each submission (publisher, date, response time, contact info)
Track versions of your manuscript or query
Note any feedback you receive
Tools like QueryTracker or even a Google Sheet can keep you organized and on-target.
5. Learn to Pitch Like a Pro
Craft your query letter, elevator pitch, and book synopsis. Even without an agent, you’ll use these to:
Pitch to editors
Submit to contests
Apply for grants or fellowships
Promote your book to bloggers and media outlets
A sharp, tight pitch shows that you take your writing seriously—and helps others do the same.
6. Build a Team (Freelancers Are Your Friends)
Agents often help you polish a manuscript. As your own agent, you assemble your team:
Developmental editor for structure and pacing
Copy editor for grammar and consistency
Cover designer for visual impact
Formatter for print and ebook production
Publicist (optional, but helpful for big releases)
Websites like Reedsy and Editorial Freelancers Association are great places to find vetted professionals.
7. Stay Informed and Connected
Industry trends shift constantly. As your own advocate, stay up to date:
Follow publishing professionals on social media (Twitter/X, Instagram, LinkedIn)
Read blogs by Writers Helping Writers, Jane Friedman, Nathan Bransford, and Writer Unboxed.
Attend virtual conferences and local guild meetings (hint hint )
Example: Colleen Hoover started as a self-published author and now tops bestseller lists worldwide—on her own terms.
So, Do You Need an Agent?
Here’s a quick self-check:
Question | If you answer YES… |
Do you want to be traditionally published? | An agent is likely essential. |
Are you writing commercial or literary fiction? | An agent improves your chances. |
Are you writing for niche markets or nonfiction with a strong platform? | You may succeed without one. |
Do you want full control over the publishing process? | Consider going indie. |
Final Thoughts On Pursuing an Agent:
Having a literary agent can be a game-changer—but it’s not the only way. The most important thing? Understand your goals. Educate yourself. Surround yourself with people who’ve walked the road before you.
Final Thoughts on Being Your Own Agent:
]Acting as your own agent doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It means you steer the ship, choose your crew, and navigate based on your goals.
Some writers land an agent after years of solo effort. Others thrive as indie authors, making full-time incomes on their own. The common thread? They believed in their work, and they treated their writing like a business—with passion and professionalism.
Join the Mississippi Writers Guild!
If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about the next step, you're not alone. Join the Mississippi Writers Guild and become part of a community where writers share their stories, struggles, and successes, many of whom have gone both routes.
You’ll get free access to craft workshops, writing groups, and real testimonials from writers who’ve landed agents—and those who’ve blazed their own trail.
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