There’s quite a bit of debate
in all industries,
including publishing,
about whether or not
a middleman (an agent) adds value.
Almost everyone agrees
that a great middleman
knows what each side wants.
I asked an agent today
what her key publishers
are looking for.
She hemmed and hawed
and gave me
the ‘they’re looking for great stories’
bullsh*t answer.
That told me nothing
It didn’t help me tweak my product
or my pitch to appeal
to these prospective partners.
I’d derive more value
talking to them directly.
If your middleman doesn’t know
what your prospective partner
wants,
look for a new middleman
or do the deal without one.