Agents not only peruse the slush pile, but have to find other ways of looking for talent. Newer agents, such as myself, are actively building a list which means not only client referrals and slush pile reading, but watching TV shows or documentaries, reading periodicals, and browsing websites in the genres they are looking for talent.
Author platforms used to only pertain to nonfiction, but fiction writers are now building platforms through social media, journalism, submitting to contests, literary journals and pre-publication prizes.
New fiction writers looking to attract attention: Spread your talent through various literary channels to prove to agents you are serious about a career in fiction.
This simultaneously increases your chances of being discovered by talent alone, and not the cumbersome slush pile. Don’t look at the slush pile as the be-all end-all. Focus on your writing and nurturing your talent in literary circles like journals, competitions, writing groups, writing for other print publications. While you are developing your talent your querying will consistently get better and you are bettering you odds of being seen the more places you are published.
A sample of journals I read:
n+1
Room
Fiddlehead
Geist
Contemporary Verse 2 (CV2)
sub-TERRAIN
Epoch
These are a few among many that are quality publications to get your work exposed in.
Websites like Poets & Writers are a great resource to find grants and awards, contests and competitions. Work on your craft and continue querying.
Q: What publications do you submit to?
Fascinating post, and very timely. I’ve had a web presence for several years now, but I could certainly do more. Thanks for taking the time to write this.
My pleasure. Glad to be of help, Kimberly.
Great blog.I’ve just launched my website and have been searching the net for helpful tips to ‘get me out there’. Thanks.
Research and find your niche. Network (comment on blogs, re-tweet links) with like-minded writers. Use a website to work on your craft, but never let it overshadow the time you need to work as a writer. Submitting to online and print sources will help get you out there and you can link it all back to your website, Twitter and CV. There is a wealth of information out there, Teresa. Use it to your advantage!
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I ve never have taken classes for writing and love to write, these are great tips.Helped me a lot.
I’m glad they were useful, Sandra. Good luck!
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