Tips from a Publishing Agent

​By Precious Williams

So what is the purpose of having an agent? Agents negotiate between the author and the publishing house, many of which won't consider a manuscript unless an agent submits it. They also help clients avoid companies that require payments upfront. An agent's duty is to get the writer the best contract possible. Lee uses her marketing skills to promote her clients by writing creative query letters, building interest in the product. Lee will shop a book around to different companies for six months to a year.

If the company decides to publish your work, it could be two years before the book is available for purchase. "[Authors] have to be patient and willing to work with the editor who selects their work," Lee says. "There will be many changes and alterations in the process." Writing is a process of time spent drafting, editing and revising to create the best story possible. Becoming a published author encompasses all of that and more to create the best book possible. ​​

In this article, I interviewed publishing agent, Melissa Lee of the Sullivan Maxx Literary Agency. She provides helpful tips on developing habits to become a better writer and information on getting published.

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