Thread by @Joannechocolat

Today's #TenTweets, by multiple request, are on the subject of AGENTS. Follow the hashtag to collect them all! #TenThingsAboutAgents

1. Just as it's theoretically possible for someone to act as their own defence counsel in Court, it's possible for an author to do business without an agent. Most times, however, neither is advisable. #TenThingsAboutAgents

2. A literary agent acts of behalf of their author when negotiating contracts or collecting the money paid to them by publishers. They usually know all the publishers personally, and they know which ones are most likely to appreciate their client's work. #TenThingsAboutAgents

3. Most agents also have a number of sub-agents who act for them in different territories, or who deal with film, recording or TV rights. #TenThingsAboutAgents

4. An agent will take a percentage of any money paid to you from any contracts they have negotiated on your behalf - the percentage usually varies from 10% to 20%. #TenThingsAboutAgents

5. No reputable agent takes any money up front, or asks their client to pay readers' fees, postage, etc. #TenThingsAboutAgents

6. Agents are well worth their fee, and more. Trying to deal with publishers without an agent is difficult, frustrating, and usually ends up with the author being ripped off. #TenThingsAboutAgents

7. The three main things an agent will offer you are: direct contact with publishers; legal and contractual expertise; someone to kick ass on your behalf without endangering your relationship with your publishers. #TenThingsAboutAgents

8. Agents come in all styles. Some are part of a big agency; some are solo operators; some are powerful and prestigious; some are young and up-and-coming. It's up to you, as the author, to choose carefully which one you go with. #TenThingsAboutAgents

9. Getting an agent takes time and patience. But most publishers are unlikely to read a manuscript that isn't offered to them by a literary agent. That's because agents only take on authors whose work they can sell. #TenThingsAboutAgents

10. a) If an agent takes you on, you'll sign a document accepting to let them negotiate on their behalf, for a fee of 10-20% of your earnings. You will then be their client until one of you decides to terminate the agreement. #TenThingsAboutAgents

10 b): Check out agents' submission rules before you approach them. Not all of them will be taking on new clients. And always approach them with the respect that you would any other professional relationship. Remember - they don't owe you anything. #TenThingsAboutAgents