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Topic: Meeting with Literary Agent Tomorrow--Help!
| Author | Message |
| candylilacs | Posted – 2/17/2008 9:42:18 PM | show profile Hi, I'm heading to a half-hour meeting with a literary agent at a local university in an all-day interview with writers-type session. I have *no* idea what to say, do or bring. I previously sent her 10 pages of my work and a very loose synopsis of the larger work (I have no idea where I'm going with it exactly, so I made it general) but I'm nowhere near being done. My MFA coordinator kind of pushed me into it,before I was ready, but I guess I will be making a needed contact and trying to create a favorable impression. So, how do I do that? And what do I wear? I'm thinking stylishly casual. Any advice? Thanks, c. ------ http://www.mswritesguide.blogspot.com |
| aj | Posted – 2/17/2008 10:09:21 PM | show profile What do you want out of the meeting? My guess is that you're looking to make a contact and hopefully impress her with your work and your professionalism. Try to organize your thoughts so that you come prepared with a few questions that can help you move forward and hopefully meet with her again. Would be good if you knew about the work she represents and can reference that in your conversation. Anything you can read up about her recent projects and where they sold will make you look like you did your homework. As far as your work, ask for direction in terms of how you feel you can tweak/revise/continue with what you gave her. Don't doubt yourself or blindly accept everything she says. Talk passionately about your subject and where you envision it winding up...with specific reference to genre, marketing ideas and even shelving suggestions at the bookstore. All agents want to know in the end is HOW THEY WILL MAKE MONEY FROM YOU. So, if you come across as someone who both knows your subject matter, is a good writer (this is the most critical piece of it all) and is willing to take advice and continue to make your work stronger, in addition to being able to look at this as a business, you'll be headed in the right direction. As far as what to wear...stylish is good...don't need a suit...but I wouldn't come in jeans. Oh, and don't forget to smile! |
| aj | Posted – 2/18/2008 11:43:48 PM | show profile So... How did it go? |
