I recently attended a literary conference and spoke on this topic. So below find 5 things I wish writers knew and 5 things I wish writers did. I hope it’s helpful!

5 Things I Wish Writers Knew

1. Publishing is subjective, but it’s also a business. Loving a manuscript isn’t enough. We have to believe we can sell it, position it, and find the right editor for it. I recently passed on a manuscript because it was too close to something I already had.

2. The market matters. For example, Horror and Thriller are having a moment right now. Romantasy is becoming saturated.

3. The slushpile is unfortunately all about waiting. Behind the scenes agents are reading queries, editing client manuscripts, submitting projects, negotiating contracts, talking to editors, and managing existing clients, and we are in the same boat on submissions.

4. An agent is an advocate for many clients. We don’t work exclusively for one client. We also are not compensated for any of our work. We don’t get paid until we sell your book.

5. Every pass is a win! It shows you are putting yourself out there! That’s something to celebrate!

5 Things I Wish Writers Did

1. Do your homework before querying. Know what the agent represents, what they’re looking for, and whether your manuscript actually fits their list. A personalized query beats a mass email every time.

2. Follow the submission guidelines. If an agent says they’re closed, don’t query anyway. If they ask for five pages, don’t send fifty. Following directions is the easiest first impression you can make.

3. Make the first pages count. Don’t spend three chapters warming up. Start with a compelling voice, an interesting character, and something that makes us need to turn the page. – Free webinar POLISHING YOUR SUBMISSION PACKET BEFORE QUERYING.

4. Be professional and patient. Follow up when appropriate, disclose simultaneous submissions, communicate offers promptly, and remember that a polite nudge is very different from repeated emails asking where things stand.

5. Be open to feedback and willing to revise. An editorial letter or revision request isn’t an attack on your writing. If you want to publish traditionally, you need to be willing to collaborate, reconsider, and sometimes kill your darlings.

If you remember nothing else, remember this: We want to fall in love with your manuscript. We’re not looking for reasons to reject it. But we also have to be able to sell it.