The Two Important Steps to Score a Literary Agent

Though an agent takes a portion of your profits, they are also one of your best bets to becoming published. In a way, it's a catch-22. Obtaining an agent isn't the only route to getting published, and it may not be for you, but nobody can deny that it's can be a really important step in launching your writing career and opens doors to publishers who only accept submissions from literary agents. So if you have the audacity to try this traditional rout, there's really only two things you have to do:

1. Start Small and Build Your Credentials
You should not have to pay an agent up front, and if it is ever too easy maybe you could reconsider. Your best bet is to start getting published in local anthologies, college-level publications, and then move up to professional literary magazines like the ones featured in The Writer's Market books or smaller publishing houses that accept poetry, short stories, and other submissions.

Once you start getting published with those credible sources, you'll be able to catch the eye of an agent who will take you somewhere, who know the right people and can help open doors to publishers. So start writing often and submitting just as much - it's really that simple. If nothing happens, keep writing. There is no better way to improve your writing skills than by writing on a daily basis.

2. Look for An Agent Who is Credible and Ask Them to Represent You
Credibility must be the word of the day. It's a good idea to research agents before inquiring if they would like to represent you. See what they've published and trust your instincts. If it seems fishy it probably it. Use your own credibility to find an equally credible agent.

Again, one of the best places to find an agent is through credible listings found in The Writer's Market. I've also heard that Literary Market Place is another great source. Keep in mind that most agents request to be contacted by mail (yes, snail mail) and e-mailing them won't really get you anywhere. Your best bet is to find out how they wish to be solicited.

Discussion:

Tell us your story! Have you struggled with finding an agent? What have you learned from your attempts? Have you had any success? Do share!