Everything.
I've been an intern now for a whole week and...I'm exhausted.
Don't take that the wrong way, because I'm loving every minute of it. But there is so much to do. And I haven't even started looking at the queries yet. :)
In my head I knew that agents are busy people and I understood why on the surface, but I didn't really get it.
There are tons of queries to read, and I mean tons. And that takes time because even a minute on each one can suck up your hours before you realize it. And then there are the manuscripts. Granted, if it isn't working, the agent can always stop after a few pages and move on, but what if it takes more time to know.
Then there's editing and submission packets and contracts and all that.
But there's a whole other level that I hadn't even thought of. Like the time agents use to be a part of contests. As writers we love this stuff, but it's seriously a big time commitment for agents. And then there is PR, which is where my focus is right now.
Updating all those fabulous sites we all use to find and organize agents for our query lists takes time, responding to questions takes time, maintaining a presence on Twitter, and FB and a blog takes time. And you could say that those things aren't crucial. After all, people are always going to find the agents and send them queries. But if you're going for quality, this isn't something you can skimp on.
I've learned so much in such a short period of time, I can't wait to see what more is in store in the future. And as promised, you will always have a front row seat to the show.
Contests are huge and think of all the writers who have found agents that way. I know I always go online and check to see if an agent has an online presence. In this day, I think it's very important.
ReplyDeleteYep, I think it helps writers get to know an agents personality and likes.
DeleteCan I squee for you?? It's so cool that you're getting to do this. I imagine what you're learning about the entire process is invaluable...as anyone working in the publishing industry. So happy for you!!! smiles....
ReplyDeleteSquee away. :) Thanks for your support, girlie.
DeleteSounds like a busy but awesome week. :)
ReplyDeleteCount me one very happy lady. :)
DeleteI've been out of the loop coz of writer's block, so I missed out. Where are you interning? Congrats
ReplyDeleteThanks, Ednah. I just started so you're not that far out of the loop. I'm the intern/PR specialist at Corvisiero Literary Agency.
DeleteThat sounds pretty awesome to experience both sides of the coin, so to speak.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the position. What a great learning experience for a writer!
It is! And hopefully an opportunity to learn what it takes to be an agent and help other writers make their book dreams come true.
DeleteSarah, that's exciting news. I just heard of this now. Good luck with it all and keep us posted!
ReplyDeleteOhhh the manuscripts... I SOOOO understand with my internship. There are some that may take 100 pages for you to realize it's just not working.
ReplyDeleteWhew! Sounds like quite a week, but I'm sure as you get into a routine it'll become a little less stressful (and that's when you throw the queries on top... lol). I'm glad you're enjoying this new internship, and here's another little squee! Very happy for you!
ReplyDelete