Writers’ Conferences Tips – Want to know how to pitch a literary agent at a writers’ conference? Read this article by a top book agent, originally published in the Guide to Literary Agents (Writers’ Digest Books).
Part 1 of this article revealed why going to a writers’ conference is a great way to get a literary agent. It also shared the best place to find a writers’ conference (searchable by theme, location, and more). Read Part 1 of this two-part guide to writers’ conferences by clicking here: Writers Conference – Part 1.
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Writers’ Conferences
Literary Agent Pick-Up Tip #3:
LISTEN
Although you may want to impress literary agents at writers’ conferences, don’t overdo it (and be patient). Be a good dance partner and let prospective agents lead. No worthwhile agent is going to talk during your entire meeting and prevent you from making your pitch — although he might tease you a bit. Wait until he opens the door for you, then glide through it gracefully.
Listening closely will help you catch valuable clues about what your potential partner deems important. Maybe you’ll adjust your pitch slightly, based on a comment he makes. Every second of conversation with an agent at a writers’ conference is an opportunity for you to learn about that agent and the business of publishing. Absorb every word, every intonation, every bit of body language, every silence, and every bit of sub-text.
If the literary agent you’re trying to seduce isn’t melting after you’ve used your most alluring lines (be brutally honest with yourself), don’t freak out. And don’t cut and run. Play it cool and ask questions about the agenting or publishing process. You’ve got an agent on your arm for at least a few more minutes during writers’ conference. Learn what you can. Try to get feedback. Maybe you can even get a referral.
Make every second count.
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Writers’ Conferences Pick-Up Tip #4:
CUT TO THE CHASE
Some literary agents attend many writers’ conferences each year and sit through thousands of 1-on-1 pitches. Write down what you want to say, before you say it. Practice your pitch with other experienced writers. And get to the point. Small talk is nice, but the one thing you and your dream agent want to know (above all else), is how he can help you make money and develop your career. You only have 10-20 minutes to sell yourself. Don’t be demure — there are other love interests in line behind you.
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More Writers’ Conferences “Pick-up” Tips
Whose writing makes your heart race? Available book agents want to know. This information will give inquiring literary agents a sense of how well-read you are. Be a voyeur and get to know your competition, intimately. Getting in bed with the works of other writers will increase the uniqueness of your work, and it will give you the confidence and means to explain why your work is special.
When you’re pitching literary agents at writers’ conferences, position yourself as an expert. What makes you so knowledgeable about your topic? What are the subjects and themes that keep you up late at night? What do you talk to friends, loved ones, and strangers about? Books that begin in this private place are the ones that endure. They come from a spot deep within you, a place that no one can take away or imitate.
This is your gift — your unique story.
If you’re pitching fiction at writers’ conferences, gain agents’ trust by speaking about more than just plot and characters. Talk about themes. The movie Titanic isn’t about a sinking ship. It’s a love story that takes place on a sinking ship. The Godfather isn’t about crime. It’s about family. Let your tentative agent know who your main character is. What does she want? What are the obstacles in her way? What is she going to do to circumvent them?
Good writing (like everything else that’s good) is in the details.
And depth, is an agent’s greatest aphrodisiac.
When you meet literary agents at writers’ conferences, don’t just communicate ideas. Let book agents feel what you feel. That is, after all, what your writing is supposed to do. If the chemistry is right, it won’t take much to get your dream agent excited — you won’t have to force it. You’ll have similar backgrounds, interests, and goals. Don’t forget to watch his body language, and listen.
Is that a gong you’re hearing?
Or wedding bells?
During your pitch at writers’ conferences, express your desire and ability to aggressively market your works. Again, don’t be passive. Remember, it’s all in the details. Read books on marketing and find creative ways to apply the ideas therein to your project. Join organizations and associations related to your field. Such affiliations will give you extra knowledge and credibility, as well as invaluable contacts and support.
In this case, bigger is always better.
And more is always better.
Another thing you can do to win literary agents over at writers’ conferences… is provide rave reviews about you and/or your work, written by successful authors (use these same tactics to win them over). This strategy will require a bit of legwork before you get to the writers’ conference, but it’s worth it. Several years ago I met a woman at a writers’ conference who told me she had a stellar recommendation from Clive Cussler (in writing).
End of meeting.
“Please send us the complete manuscript,” I said. “And let’s get together later for a cup of coffee.”
Okay, so your pitch at the writers’ conference is over…
You’ve expressed interest and made yourself vulnerable. But, is he going to say “I love you”? If he doesn’t, you’re ready to thank him and look for another agent before you leave the writers’ conference. He remains silent. You watch his chest rise as he takes a deep breath and leans back in his black leather chair. “I’d like to get to know you better,” he says. “Send me three chapters and a complete proposal after the writers’ conference, along with an SASE. We’ll get back to you as quickly as possible. And thanks for letting me take a look.”
Congratulations!
Your first date has been a success and he’s asked you for another. But don’t go out and buy a wedding dress. Your prospective literary agent hasn’t proposed just yet, and you still have a lot of work to do. Don’t attempt to hand over your manuscript during your meeting or any other time during the writers’ conference — regardless of his interest. The last thing your prospective agent wants to do, unless he’s specifically stated otherwise, is jam one more thing into his suitcase.
Your dream literary agent is out there, preparing himself for you with the same care with which you’re preparing yourself for him. But you have to make yourself available. And going to writers’ conferences is a great place to start. Securing an agent (one you love, who loves you back with equal measure) could be as simple as you attending writers’ conferences.
When you go to writers conferences, don’t forget my tips: Be yourself, flirt, listen, and cut to the chase. Keep working your charms and, before you know it, you might be the next one at the altar <wink>.
Available literary agent seeks professional author. Should be confident, ambitious, and fun at parties. Must view the author/agent relationship as a partnership. Should be creative, but grounded and consistent. Must be honest, emotionally available, and not afraid of long-term commitment. Should not be overextended. Must be of good character, as well as liked and respected in her community. Age and looks not important, but passion and charisma are a must. Long-distance relationships okay, as long as you send chocolates on Valentine’s Day.
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Writers’ Conferences
What do you think about this article? Do you have a question or a writers’ conference tip or story you’d like to share? Post your comment or question below now!
Mark Malatesta
Your “Undercover” Agent
P.S. – For more information regarding any of the following, visit Shaw Guides: writers’ conferences 2013, writers’ conferences, best writers’ conferences, christian writers’ conferences, christian writers’ conferences 2013, 2011 writers’ conferences, list of writers’ conferences 2013, mystery writers’ conferences.
MARK MALATESTA is a former literary agent turned author coach. Mark now helps authors of all genres (fiction, nonfiction, and children's books) get top literary agents, publishers, and book deals through his company 
Hi. Not sure I’ll receive an answer since I believe this article is probably an older one. Thanks for writing it and sharing your tips on how to snag an agent. My question is how to find a writers’ conference. When I search online, I am inundated by conferences that are geared towards workshops for learning how to write, listening to lectures and speeches, etc. Are there any conferences strictly for meeting agents? Thank you!
Hi Lori,
I see all comments so not to worry… and if you Google “Shaw Guides” and look carefully when you get there… you’ll find a great searchable directory there. 😉
Also…
If you haven’t already done so, make sure you click here to access all the valuable resources I have about getting an agent in my private, members-only area (no charge): http://thebestsellingauthor.com/membership/. Once you’ve entered your name and email address there, click on the link that says, “Audio Training Library”. Then you’ll see my main audio training (and text transcript), which reveals the 7 Insider Secrets You Need to Know to Get a Top Literary Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal.
If you want help with anything else, you can post questions for me online here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/ask/. And you can register for an introductory coaching call with me here: http://thebestsellingauthor.com/coaching/intro-call/. Either way, I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your work.
Have a great day!
– Mark
Mark Malatesta
The Bestselling Author
http://thebestsellingauthor.com
Literary Agent Undercover
https://literary-agents.com
This is another packet of powerful info, Mark. I especially like your tip to study body language during a private conference with an agent. I used to teach classes in body language and its importance can’t be overstated. With computer relationships so prevalent at an increasingly younger age, face-to-face social interaction skills suffer (like the healthy development of empathy). Your article stresses establishing a positive relationship as a working partner. That’s a winning combination. | Writers Conferences
Hi Rhymster, body language is powerful isn’t it? So are your kind comments. Glad you liked the article and I hope you have a wonderful Friday and weekend. See you again soon. 😉 Mark | Writers Conferences
Hi Mark and happy Sunday to you! Your article was just terrific in that it illustrates the tango of tenacious effort coupled with innate charm, in contrast with the caution and balanced sense of patience a writer should demonstrate, when they are out there and just gallantly chatting up some potential dream agent, at a literary conference. Such helpful stuff! | Writers Conferences
Hi Leah, love your enthusiasm. Yes, getting published is a dance, isn’t it? And it sounds like you would be a good partner for any available agent. 😉 Have a great day and hope to see you again soon. Mark | Writers Conferences
Love your love relationship metaphor for this series! Some interesting and useful information here. Thanks for being uber creative and sharing it! | Writers Conferences
Hi Gayla, great hearing from you. How’s everything going? Been thinking about you and your book! Thanks for stopping by my blog and posting. I thought you might like this one… with the relationship angle. Have a fantastic weekend and hope to see you again soon. Mark | Writers Conferences
Thank you, Mark, for your upbeat info. The photos are great too. Love the one with the big ear.
Travel used to be a passion. Have been to
New York twice. Multiple Chemical Sensitivity
since 1996 complicates much. Please continue with emails. If you ever have a colleague visit
Vancouver, would meet. | Writers Conferences
Hi Evelyn, thank you for that. I figure there are enough people out there telling writers how impossible it is, so I might as well present both sides. Yes, it’s hard… but it IS possible. And that’s just how I think anyway. Thank you for sharing and being so supportive. Sending warm wishes to Canada. Mark | Writers Conferences
I really enjoyed both part 1 and 2 of the aticle aboyt how to snag an agent ar a conferance. Ive been in advertising and marketing for over 20 years and your article described this process like a dance or first date. Thats much the same as it isin advertising. I feel like my aeld confidence arsinal is better equipped now. Thank you!
Holly | Writers Conferences
Thank you Holly, and I’m glad to know you enjoyed it. One of these days I’m going to get around to fully developing the comparison of finding a literary agent to finding your soul mate. There are so many parallels, and it’s a lot of fun. Now, go get yourself your dream agent. And, if you have any questions about how to improve your query (which you’ll need to deliver after the conference), let me know. Mark | Writers Conferences
I’ve been blogging about this very topic. Just returned from the PNWA condense where the goal is to,punch. We only had FOUR MINUTES! To pitch. I tend to blather, so my pitches were weak, but three agents asked for pages. | Writers Conferences
Hi Laura, you probably did better than you realize. Since I know you personally, I’m even more confident about it. But, then again, you got three agents to request pages… so that should be the most compelling piece of evidence there is. 😉 Have a great weekend and keep us all posted on your progress. Oh, by the way… in the future, maybe you should attend some speed dating events to get more comfortable with the quick pitch format. Ha ha ha. Mark | Writers Conferences
LOL. Speed pitching IS like speed dating. Less scary, since I’m not expected to sleep with the agent. 😉 | Writers Conferences
But some authors DO end up sleeping with some literary agents. Check out the comment by “Anonymous” on part 1 of this article: https://literary-agents.com/writers-conference-part-01/. 😉 Mark | Writers Conferences
That’s right..,you HAD mentioned it. I did have coffee with a couple of the,, but didn’t give any my room key. 🙂
Here is my latest on pitching.
http://laura-moe.blogspot.com/
| Writers Conferences
I love to go to writer’s conferences to learn new ideas. I write articles and stories for children mostly and enter many writing contests. Sometimes, I request critiques in order to hone my craft. I am still learning and trying, but I have never had enough nerve to approach agents at the conferences I attend. I belong to SCBWI and attend their state conference. You have given me confidence to try seeing an agent in October when I attend the next one. Thanks! | Writers Conferences
Hi Elizabeth, it sounds like you’re an educated author who has paid her dues. You definitely need to put yourself out there. And I’m thrilled to hear that you’ll be going for it next time around. Just follow this tips in this 2-part article and you’ll be fine. And make sure you post any questions that you have for me here. Have a great weekend! Mark | Writers Conferences
This advice actually could be applied to dating as well. You really should consider writing a guide with dating advice, Mark. If you put a picture of your wife on the cover, that would be proof that your approach really works. 🙂 | Writers Conferences
You jest, but that’s my whole schtick (did I spell that right… I say it a lot but I’ve never looked it up)? I’m the idealist, romantic agent who sees everything in life as a parallel to romantic relationships. This blog is one part guide to getting published, one part guide to lasting love, and one part self-help. Who says you can’t blend genres?
P.S. – You inspired me to write a new article. I’ll give you credit when I post it. 🙂 | Writers Conferences
I didn’t go to a writers conference but could pick up the best literary agent ever at a joint venture conference in the USA few month ago. Mark Malatesta holds what he promised that’s for sure. I signed up for an one-on-one coaching to finally get my book writing up and running and what happened then sounds like a fairy tale. Struggling for many years with too many book ideas, losing focus, or not taking the time to write, he totally changed my perspective of writing a book. I didn’t know that book writing and publishing could be such fun, adventurous and enriching. Thank you for helping me finding my book fairy tale. I am very grateful for your support, guidance and motivation! | Writers Conferences
Thank you, Dagmar. If anyone deserves a fairy tale ending, it’s you. You’re a good person, but you’re also a SMART writer… willing to be open and change things until they’re as good as they can get (something that’s just as important as writing ability). I’m honored to be part of your “team.” | Writers Conferences
Do literary agents ever take on projects/genres they HATE, but because it’s excellent writing, they feel it needs to be considered? If so…how often does this happen? | Writers Conferences
You mean, like… selling their soul for a profit? Yes. More common, however, is a scenario where an agent takes on a project they don’t hate, but they’re not really passionate about it either. That includes genre and writing style.
Most business owners (including agents) have some customers, clients, and/or projects that they’re excited about, some that they’re indifferent about… and others that they wish they’d never taken on.
My goal as an agent was to only take on books that I would have actually bought and read myself… that also had bestseller or high commercial potential. But a lot of agents aren’t that picky and are happy to take on ANYTHING that they think will make a fast buck. 😉 | Writers Conferences