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Next comes the waiting.
Every literary agent has been in the same shoes as the author querying them-waiting for a response, SOME kind of response Here are some goals to aim for, so that the overall query process is a positive one.
1. Avoid calling and/or email the agent once the requested materials have been sent.
In an effort to balance the rest of our agent duties, we try our best to read an author’s book proposal and/or manuscript in a timely manner. Most agents (including myself) will state clearly the turn-around time in printed directories. Hence, contacting an agent the following week isn’t to one’s advantage. Assume if contacted directly to email/mail one’s book idea, it is seriously being considered for representation. If more than two months pass, by all means drop a followup note to the agent, usually by email.
2. Avoid sending a revised proposal and/or manuscript after the fact.
If you were on a road-trip, would it be a good idea to return to the starting point and start a new route altogether? No, it wouldn’t. It’s not the best use one’s time or money.
Assume the same in regard to requested materials for an agent. We prefer to read the final copy of the book proposal and/or manuscript, not the working version. The author comes across as more professional, plus this level of professionalism ensures that the idea will be fully considered.
3. Use that time to further promote one’s writing platform.
This is a fantastic use of time, so do it.
4. Notify the agent if the book is no longer available for representation.
Any writer would be esctatic to have more than one agent clamoring to represent his/her book. If another agent offers representation, first and foremost celebrate! 
Then take a moment to notify the other agents (who are reading your book materials) that representation has been found. No offense will be taken, just appreciation that the notice has been been given, thereby everyone’s time saved.
I am simply a fan of David Ulin (Editor of the LA Times); I appreciate his honesty, insight, and contribution to today’s publishing realm. Recently he wrote an editorial titled “After a decade of fear, we’re connected to writing in new ways” that hit another home run on this end.
What he states is very true, there is so much to look forward to, and that embracing the changes is okay (and exciting). Walking away from that editorial, my hopes of publishing maintaining its footing with readers (and increasing readership) are even higher.
Yes, technology has changed things. Everyone is more dependent on technology in our daily lives, so much that even books, and how they are read, is slowly changing. It is hard not to be optimistic, as more people will be reached. Call it the librarian side of my education, or a general love my job, either way this new year will be a fantastic one.
Have a wonderful 2010 everyone!
