I get many questions on how I got my agent, or how to approach agents with a work that's already on Wattpad, so I thought I'd put a post together for you.
How to Query an agent with a story that's been on Wattpad (or elsewhere online).
Step One: Make sure your manuscript/story is finished and polished.
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DO NOT RUSH THIS PART. You have one chance to interest an agent. If you send through typos or sloppy writing you blow your chance. My rule of thumb is to have at least 3 CP's (critique partners) read through your manuscript before you even think of sending it.
I know it can be hard to hear critiques or make changes to your story. Take the feedback of your CP's and weigh it against your story and what you're trying to accomplish. Ask yourself, "Does this suggestion strengthen my story/character/plot? Does it align with my vision for the story? Does it fix a problem or plot hole?" If so, make the change. If all of your CP's are suggesting the same thing, strongly consider making the change.
*Choosing CP's: A CP should not be a friend or family member. They should be someone equally as serious and dedicated to getting an agent and book deal as you. You can find CP's on twitter under hashtags like #CPMatch or by googling: "find critique partner" (many sites will come up). Find CP's with all sorts of tastes and genres for a more diverse range of feedback.
*Consider hiring a sensitivity reader. Sensitivity reader's make sure you are appropriately representing characters of diversity in your story. The cost of working with a sensitivity reader can vary. For more info, check out: writeinthemargins.org/sensitivity-readers/
Step Two: Write Your Query Letter.
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Don't know how to write a Query letter? Sign up for THE ARROW (my newsletter) to receive a free copy of my Query Letter 101 booklet complete with Query letter samples and breakdowns.
*How to claim your copy: After you sign up for The Arrow, leave a message or send me a DM with your email address and let me know you've signed up and I will forward you a PDF copy of the booklet.
**Link to sign up is in my profile and I will also leave a link in the comments below and in the external link button in this chapter.
Step 2.5: Customize your query to reflect your Wattpad experience.
