Research fit before submitting
A publisher or agent is not simply a generic doorway to publication. Lists, genres, audiences and business models differ. Read their current site and look at work they already represent or publish.
A smaller number of relevant approaches is usually more useful than treating every agency or press as interchangeable.
Agent or direct submission?
Some trade publishers primarily acquire agented work. Other publishers and independent presses accept direct submissions. An agent can represent the author's work in negotiations and submissions, but the relationship itself should be governed by a clear agreement.
Do not pay an organisation merely because it calls itself an agent without understanding its business model and agreement.
Prepare the submission they ask for
Common components include a covering letter or query, synopsis or chapter outline, and sample pages or chapters. Non-fiction proposals may include audience, market, author credentials and chapter structure.
There is no single submission package that overrides the recipient's instructions. Follow the current page for the agent or publisher you are approaching.
Track what you send
- organisation and named person where relevant;
- date submitted;
- material/version sent;
- stated response time;
- simultaneous-submission rule if any;
- response and next action.
If there is interest
Interest changes the problem from submission to rights and agreement. Before accepting representation or publication terms, move to Chapter 6 and understand the proposed relationship.
A request for money also changes the analysis. Be clear whether you are dealing with a publisher investing in publication or a paid service selling work to you.
Before you move on
- Read the actual agent/publisher submission page.
- Check the list is relevant to the work.
- Prepare exactly the material requested.
- Track the version and date submitted.
- Read any agency or publishing agreement before committing.