Episode 8: Getting Ghosted (By Agents and Editors)

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Understanding Ghosting in the Publishing World: Discourse with Way-word Writers

This script covers an interactive dialogue in which the hosts of 'Way-word Writers' discuss ghosting in the publishing industry. The conversation is triggered by questions about ghosting sent by their fans via Twitter. Emphasis is placed on the numerous factors that contribute to ghosting, such as time limitations, workload, and other industry demands. They also converse about the reasons agents request full manuscripts, the importance of patience and resilience in the publishing process, and the timeline of response in the context of submissions. The conversation addresses aspects of the agent-writer relationship, how to professionally handle rejection, and how to keep personal emotions separate from business decisions.

00:00 Introduction to Ghosting in Publishing
01:15 Understanding the Agent's Perspective
05:49 The Impact of COVID-19 on Publishing
06:34 The Role of AI in Publishing
07:27 The Challenges of Managing Queries
08:20 The Reality of an Agent's Workload
11:28 The Importance of Patience in Publishing
15:30 Understanding the Query Process
17:52 The Impact of Impatience on Queries
20:39 The Importance of Professionalism in Communication
22:09 Understanding the Reasons for Ghosting in the Publishing Industry
22:42 The Impact of Ghosting on Agents and Editors
25:02 The Importance of Building Relationships in the Publishing Industry
29:04 The Role of Persistence and Desperation in the Publishing Industry
37:40 The Business Side of Being an Agent
42:05 The Importance of Self-Evaluation and Growth in the Publishing Industry
42:59 Closing Remarks and Encouragement

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