Agently Question

[cathschaffstump]

I have a question for all of you agented writers. Recently, July 25th, an agent wrote me via email and said that he would send me some comments on Substance soon.

By the way, yes, this is a very good sign, I know. I think there might be some interest there, else why not just send me a rejection? At any rate, the mystery continues. Three weeks have gone by with no sign of any email or snail mail, both of which methods have been used by the agent in question.

How long should I wait before asking the agent if he might have sent anything? Would one month be appropriate, or should I wait two? I understand that publishing is a slow industry, and if the agent’s life has been like my own work life recently, I certainly understand. Yet, I do not wish to miss an opportunity by being unresponsive.

What would you do to look professional in this situation? I really don’t want to look more like a noob than I already do.

Thanks for any advice.

Catherine

Originally published at Writer Tamago. You can comment here or there.

Comments

[brian-ohio.livejournal.com]

I'd send a polite note after one month for sure. As long as you're polite you'll be fine.

[lisa-schroeder.livejournal.com]

Yeah, I think one month is reasonable too. I mean, he's obviously read it. He just needs to make the time to tell you what he's thinking. So I think a nudge is definitely in order at the one month mark.

[1crowdedhour.livejournal.com]

I agree. I do think August is the slowest month of the year for all aspects of publishing. I'd wait until after September 1 to communicate no matter what.

[frankieb-sq87.livejournal.com]

I've been meaning to ask you. . . a friend of mine has a husband who is interested in getting his novel published but has no idea where to even begin. Would you mind if I pushed her in the direction of your ElJay for some writerly advice??

[cathschaffstump.livejournal.com]

Push away!

Catherine