I try not to focus on trends...because things are subject to change in an instant. So it’s very much, for me, about how good the book is and if I know I can sell it.
Jessica Watterson has been an agent with the Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency since 2013. We catch up with her to talk about what she looks for in a manuscript and her advice for authors seeking representation.
Please give us a brief overview of yourself and Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency
The Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency (SDLA) has just reached their 40th year as an agency, so it’s very exciting that we’re still able to help authors and make dreams come true! Personally, I started at SDLA in June of 2013, so I am celebrating my 7th anniversary here. I specialize primarily in commercial fiction, whether that be romance, YA, general fiction, cozy mysteries, fantasy, etc. I love stories that are unusual, have a deeper meaning, and give me a new experience.
What made you want to become a literary agent?
I knew I wanted to do something in publishing, but to be frank, I don’t like NYC in the slightest, and couldn’t imagine myself moving out there. However, I kept seeing all these authors that I loved mentioning their agents in their acknowledgments and that sent me into a deep dive on what an agent is. It was fate because I truly love working on books, but I don’t necessarily want to work for “big books”. Being able to be an author advocate and still be a part of the publishing process was ultimately my dream job!
First up, the question all writers want to know, what makes a manuscript stand out?
For me, the first thing will always be voice. I tend to be driven to books that are fun and upbeat (most of the time) and there are a lot of fun and upbeat books out right now, so it’s got to have that edge with a fantastic voice. Second to that would be the premise. Is it new and different, is it something that I can realistically sell? Then, of course, the actual execution of how the story is told (writing, pacing, etc).
Is having an established author platform (and a following) an important factor in taking on an author?
I think it was this way a few years ago, but for fiction it’s just not the biggest focus. You have to remember, you’re selling your book, not yourself.
When, in the writing process, should authors start querying agents?
When they have a complete and polished manuscript. Make sure you’ve had others read it in addition to your multiple read-throughs!
Many authors are now turning to self-publishing. Why should an author still hire an agent?
Self-Publishing is awesome, however, when you are self-published and you want to execute your subsidiary rights (foreign, audio, film) you can get taken advantage of, especially if you don’t have contract knowledge. Finding an agent who represents subsidiary rights could be very beneficial for you in that aspect.
When you sign an author with a traditional publisher what should they expect in terms of marketing their work?
At the very least a targeted marketing plan. This varies from book to book, but your publisher should be pitching you to media outlets, getting you ad space in target markets, and reaching out to early readers to drum up excitement. But, again, this is all very project dependent.
The publishing industry continues to change rapidly. What trends excite you?
To be honest, I try not to focus on trends in what I’m going after in terms of getting projects for my list only because right now (especially in the genres I work in) things are subject to change in an instant. So it’s very much, for me, about how good the book is and if I know I can sell it.
Are there any characteristics that you believe help to make an author successful?
Being able to separate themselves emotionally from the book at hand. I get it, it’s your baby, but it’s also something that needs to sell so you can make money! Authors who get that and can somewhat compartmentalize (I know it’s impossible to completely do that) are much more successful during the turbulent times.
What advice do you have for authors seeking representation?
Be patient. This is a crazy industry, so don’t lose heart!
You can find out more about Jessica via the Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency website, and by following her Twitter and Instagram accounts.
