Happy First-Book-Deal Anniversary to Me (Sandra)

'Twas a year ago this coming week that I did my first book deal as an agent. I've learned A LOT since then. Here are a few things that come to mind ...

At first, nearly every project I looked at had potential. Now, generally, I recognize potential for what it is -- something which requires an investment of time. And time, like never before, looks like a precious resource I have only so much of to invest.

A year ago, digging in and helping authors shape and mold their projects seemed fun and exciting. Now, I understand that in order to serve all of my authors, I do need to guide authors as much as I can, but I can't do as much as I'd like.  Though performing some editorial work is certainly part of the job and one I enjoy, my role as an agent requires that though I may help an author figure out what needs work, actually doing the work is not the best use of my time.

Negotiating my first contract was exciting, and it's still a thrill to receive offers and notify the authors I represent when we land a deal. Now, though, the best part of the job for me is in looking ahead and helping authors plan their futures.

My initial desire to find and work only with literary authors whose inspired works of genius would change the world has been somewhat toned down by the reality that authors who write commercial fiction work very hard, and probably more consistently than those who are waiting around for their muse to inspire them. 

In the same light, I've realized that those who write category fiction probably better understand the needs of their readers than do most authors. And that they also are those who are most willing to do what it takes to make a living in this industry.

I've come around in my somewhat nose-in-the-air attitude toward romance and realized that not only is it the the bread and butter of publishing, but a topic which meets an innate need in all women -- and that by working with authors who are filling this need in a way which honors God, I am participating in an important mission.

I've also learned that I can be a bit cynical and critical at times. And that I work best with people who have a sense of humor.

And I've learned that working under the guidance of Chip MacGregor is even more the honor than I thought it would be.

Comments

[Jenny B. Jones]

Happy One Year Agentaversary! That's awesome. I hope you celebrated with cake.

[Sandra]

Thanks, Jenny. Leave it to you to come up with a clever way to say it. If homemade brownies count, then I celebrated.

[Liz Babbs]

Happy Ist Anniversary, Sandra. From your humorous (almost Scottish) friend across the Pond.
Liz McBabbs!

[Carol L Daubenmire]

What lovely comments. I think Chip would be grand to work with because some of his personality eeks out thru the Blog but you would be a gem of an agent as well.

Nothing like a hint of humility to warm you to the hearts of mankind. Thanks for all you do! Happy Anniversary.

[Tanya]

Congratulations, Sandra!

[Tricia]

I want an agent that is where you were one year ago. To love, honor, and cherish my work of genius that we both know will change the world. :-)

Seriously though, (I was serious) a new agent that hasn't been weighted down with too many clients can be a beautiful thing. In fact, I want a list of every new agent that started yesterday, today even.

Happy Anniversery,

Tricia

[Buffy Andrews]

Congrats. I think it's good to look back over the year and think about the lessons learned. And to be a big enough person to admit when you might have been wrong or not quite right. We are continually growing as agents and writers and editors. That's the beauty of this thing we call life. And the beauty of being in a job that speaks to us in ways no other has. I hope your next year is even better than the past one. May God bless you and guide you in all your endeavors.

[Katie Ganshert]

Congratulations on the one year mark, Sandra. That's awesome!

[lynn]

Congratulations, Sandra. Very sweet post. I'll bet Chip is equally honored to be working with you :) Here's to many more years of deals.

[Amanda B.]

Congratulations, Sandra, on a great launch -- appreciate the insight and the perspective. We are works in progress, and it helps to be reminded that this is not a solitary journey. Keep learning and sharing!

[Carla Stewart]

Happy first sale anniversary!! Celebrate indeed. And thanks for your transparency about your growth and insights as an agent.

[Sandra]

Thanks for the congrats, everyone. Lots more to learn in the coming year. It will be interesting to recap then. If I don't think of it - someone remind me!

[Carrie Stuart Parks]

Congratulations on a year of learning, growing, and sharing with us all. May next year bring you many more sales and new, exciting authors.
Blessings,
Carrie

[Dianne]

I have a question. Could you define "commercial fiction" and "category fiction"? Or at least help me understand the difference?

Thanks.

[Mary]

Sandra -- Happy Anniversary! And your clients need a sense of humor? Uh-oh.... . It's a blast & honor to work with you -- and we know that my work WILL change the world as we know it -- or not.

[Robbie Iobst]

Sandra, Congratulations! You are a quality person and I have learned so much from you and from this blog. How do you celebrate a one year agentaversary? (Good word, Jenny)
Paper? Plastic? Kindle? :0)

[Rachel Hauck]

Happy Saleaversary Sandra!

:) Rachel

[chip responds]

It's true. Chip is honored to be working with somebody as sharp at Sandra. Glad we're a team.

[Christina Berry]

Sandra, it was so good to sit and talk with you at conference! I remember the day last year when you announced your first deal to our class. Look how far you've come, baby! ;-)