How to Get a Literary Agent: A Step-by-Step Guide for Authors

For most authors pursuing traditional publishing, securing a literary agent is an essential step. This guide provides a strategic framework for navigating the process, from researching agents and crafting a compelling query package to evaluating offers and building a long-term career partnership.

Amelia Frost

March 30, 2026 · Updated October 8, 2026 · 5 min read

For most authors of fiction and narrative non-fiction, securing a literary agent is an almost essential step toward a traditional publishing deal. Agents serve as the crucial link between a writer and the editors at major publishing houses, many of which no longer accept unsolicited manuscripts. The path to representation involves diligent research, a compelling pitch, and a careful evaluation of potential partners. This guide provides a strategic framework for navigating the process, from identifying the right agents for your work to understanding what to do when you receive an offer of representation.

**How to Get a Literary Agent**To visually demonstrate the process of getting a literary agent and provide additional context from an industry perspective.Watch on YouTube

**What To Do When a Literary Agent Offers Representation**To provide direct advice on what to do and what questions to ask when an agent offers representation, complementing the written checklist.Watch on YouTube

The Essential Role of a Literary Agent

In a competitive industry, a literary agent acts as an author's guide, ally, and advocate. Their primary function is to be the gatekeeper, sifting through submissions to find manuscripts with potential and then championing those works to acquiring editors. According to one analysis, an agent's acceptance rate can range from one in 100 to one in 1,000 submissions, depending on the genre and market. Once an agent decides to represent a book, they become its principal advocate, strategically pitching it to editors and imprints where they believe it will best resonate.

Beyond making the initial sale, agents provide a wide range of support. They are often an author's first editor, working with them to get a manuscript into the strongest possible shape before it goes out to publishers. Literary agent Catherine Cho of Madeleine Milburn Literary, TV & Film Agency notes that this can involve months of drafts to ensure the book is ready for acquisition. Agents also manage the business side of a writer's career, negotiating contracts, protecting their client's interests, and mediating the relationship with the publisher to ensure a smooth and productive partnership.

Questions to Ask a Literary Agent Before Accepting Representation

Receiving an offer of representation is a major milestone, and the conversation that follows—often called "The Call"—is a critical opportunity for you and the agent to determine if you are a good match. This is a mutual interview. While the agent has chosen you, you must also choose them. Being prepared with thoughtful questions will help you assess their working style, vision, and suitability as a long-term partner. Here are key areas to explore:

Editorial Vision: An agent is your first editor. Understanding their approach is crucial. Ask them what they liked about your manuscript and what, if any, editorial changes they would suggest before submitting it to publishers. Inquire about their typical editorial process and how hands-on they are with revisions.
Submission Strategy: You need to know their plan for selling your book. Ask which editors or publishing houses they have in mind for your manuscript and why. This will give you a sense of their industry connections and how they position books like yours in the market.
Communication and Working Style: A strong author-agent relationship is built on clear communication. Ask about their preferred method and frequency of communication. How do they handle updates when a book is on submission? Understanding their style will help prevent future misunderstandings.
Agency and Contract Terms: Discuss the specifics of the agency agreement. What is their commission rate for domestic, foreign, and film rights? How does the agency handle subsidiary rights? Ask to see a copy of their standard agency agreement before making a decision.
Long-Term Career Goals: A great agent is invested in your entire career, not just one book. Ask them how they see your career developing over the next five to ten years. Do they have a vision for your author brand? Their answer will reveal whether they are prepared to be a strategic partner for the long haul.