EPISODE 78: I've Signed With An Agent: NOW WHAT?

Send us a textIn this episode of Way-Word Writers, senior literary agent Heather Cashman, along with authors and writing coaches Stephanie Bearce and Nicki Jacobsmeyer, discuss the exhilarating and often complex phase that follows signing with a literary agent. They emphasize the importance of celebrating this achievement while remaining realistic and proactive in one's writing career. Key topics include dealing with mixed emotions, understanding the evolving dynamics of the publishing industry, communicating effectively with your agent, managing submission processes, and maintaining professional relationships. They also discuss the importance of continual writing and networking, even after securing representation. The episode is rich with practical advice and personal anecdotes aimed at guiding newly agented authors through this critical stage of their publishing journeys.00:00 Welcome to Way-Word Writers00:41 Celebrating Your New Agent01:10 Navigating Mixed Emotions02:54 Realities of Having an Agent07:27 Communication with Your Agent10:09 Setting Expectations and Boundaries16:29 The Role of Critique Groups20:47 Going on Submission22:41 Navigating the Submission Process23:05 Handling Rejections and Moving Forward23:38 Trusting Your Agent24:14 Dealing with the Waiting Game25:35 Questions and Revisions27:37 Maintaining Professional Boundaries28:24 What Not to Do After Getting an Agent33:08 Tracking Submissions and Networking38:29 Final Advice for New Authors40:59 Conclusion and Audience Engagement This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit waywordwriters.substack.com