Believe me I understand. I started out submitting my material and that is how I became a jr. agent at the Corvisiero Literary Agency. I know the frustrations of having to wait.
However, this doesn't mean to get angry with an agent because she/he is taking too long. Especially, when the agent takes the time out to give you pointers to improve your novel.
A few things authors need to know.
1. Agents are super duper busy. Be patient.
2. Please do not send rude emails, we WILL get back to you.
3. When an agent gives you advice, do not get mad, take it
or not. It's up to you.
4. When an agents says 'this is not for me,' and gives you
advice, it does not mean they are interested, they are just trying to help you
out.
5. Please be respectful. It is a stressful job to be an agent
and we have tons of queries to read. Your query is not the only material we
have to read.
Great tips. I could only imagine how stressful it must be, and even more, I would think your brain almost turns off after a short while of reading queries! Patience is very difficult for me to exercise, but I do my best, and I think it's just common sense to not send nasty e-mails.
ReplyDeleteRegardless if an agent declines my work, I still want to keep a good standing professional relationship with them. I've heard several authors grumble about how "we writers" are the talent, and agents need writers as much as writers need agents. Both is true, and if there is a mutual respect shown while communicating about a MS, I think the process of submitting and review can be a pleasant one.
I've seen your published books, and I'm happy for you! Congratulations on your success. I wish you all the best!