My own agent, Laura Blake Peterson at Curtis Brown, Ltd, has not
only been an ear and a shoulder, tirelessly championing me and
defending my best interests during contract negotiations and sticky
publishing situations, but she has also opened the door to a number
of unexpected book deals through her editorial contacts. She is
always accessible to me, which is important--I know that I matter.
You have to have an agent who believes in your work, obviously.
Many writers prefer smaller agencies or solo agents and find them
more personalized, nurturing, and hands-on. Personally, having been
there, done that, I’m more comfortable being with a big New York
agency because that’s where Laura is, because I live here, and
because they also have separate legal, foreign rights, and film
departments. It’s important to remember that neither agency
scenario will make nor break a career–it’s all about what suits
your individual style.
Some bestselling authors are represented by small agencies or solo
agents outside of New York. The most important criteria in choosing
an agent is that you and she/he need to “click” on every level, and
have the same vision for your career path and future goals. You
really need to trust that person and be willing to put your “life”
(i.e., career) in their hands. In the end, it’s a lot like
embarking on a romantic relationship. Listen to your instincts and
let them guide you. And if the relationship isn’t working, don’t
hesitate to break up!