Agent Follow Up Etiquette

You've read the submission guidelines. You've followed them and checked your material five times. Your finger trembles as it hovers over the "Send" button.

You did it! You actually queried an agent! And then, miracle of all miracles, the agent requested material from you!!

Ten weeks later...

You check your e-mail once in the morning, once in the afternoon, and eighty-five times in between. Your forehead breaks out in a sheen of sweat.

Did the agent even get the material? Has she read it? Why haven't I heard anything? Oh, no, it must be really bad. She's so embarrassed for me, she's trying to figure out how to break the bad news. No, she's laughing at it right this minute. That's ridiculous. Agents don't have time to laugh at my measly book. She probably hasn't gotten to it yet.

Then...

Should I follow up?

Agent sites are usually great about spelling out how and what to submit. They're generally clear on what kind of response to expect for queries. However, not much information is available about what happens after you've submitted material. Some agents get back to you within a day, others won't get back to you for months. How is a writer to know the correct process for following up?

Literary agent, Scott Eagan of Greyhaus Literary Agency tackled this subject in January. His post, "The Protocol for Following Up" is useful for any writer unsure of how to inquire about their submission. If you are still not certain after reading his post, I'd recommend waiting at least eight weeks before following up on requested material. Keep your e-mail polite and to the point, and don't forget to include all of your contact information. You still might have a long wait, but you'll feel better knowing you've made the effort.

Do you find waiting for a response excruciating?

Have a terrific Wednesday!

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