One of the most important things after getting an offer is talking to the agent’s clients. You want to talk to other clients to see if they’re happy in their relationship with this agent, and to get a feel of what it’s like working with them.
This part of the process can be enlightening. One agent may say they’ll usually get back to you in the same day, and the clients will say “usually a week”. So you can have the balance between all the answers, as well have a feel of what it’s like to work with said agent. Don’t be afraid to ask clients blunt questions, or to ask them if they’ve been through a rough patch. They’ll answer because they are writers like you: and writers stick together and want the best for each other.
That said, I’ve compiled a list of questions to ask other clients in the e-mail. Feel free to add yours too, but make sure you’ve introduced yourself — “Hey, I’m so and so, your agent offered me representation and I wanted to talk to you a little about what it’s like working with them”.
TO ASK OTHER CLIENTS
- How long does it take the agent to respond to your emails?
- How long does it take the agent to read and give revision notes on client manuscripts?
- Does the agent answer questions about your bigger picture career path, or only the manuscript at hand?
- How editorial is the agent?
- At what stage do they like to read a manuscript and begin to offer input?
- Do they do line edits, editorial letters, both, or neither?
- Whatever their feedback style, is it clear? Do you understand what they’re asking? Do you know how to proceed after you’ve received and digested their revision notes? Do you feel comfortable asking clarifying questions about their notes?
- Does the agent read pitches and give feedback on which new projects to pursue, or do you write a whole new manuscript before showing it to your agent?
- When things are rough, is the agent warm and encouraging and/or does the agent give tough love as needed?
- Do you trust your agent’s business instincts and experience?
- Are you comfortable telling your agent what you need, asking questions, and expressing concerns?
These are all excellent questions, and if you ask them to one or two clients, you can see if their answers and their experience match, and whether or not you’ll be comfortable working with them.
Make sure you check out the next posts in the series, and what happens if you have multiple offers!