Signing with an agent is a lot like getting married. You make the most educated decision you can, trust the other person, and jump. And I mean jump. (Fortunately, my agent has been great so far.)

So what does an author want/expect? I can’t answer that for everyone, but I’m going to give a general list. (Unfortunately, agents expect you to ask these questions. IMO, we shouldn’t have to ask. After all, they’re the expert.)

1. Tell us what you’ll do up front. Really. Vague isn’t helping anyone. Are you planning to do an edit? If so, how extensive? What houses/editors do you plan to send to? How many do you plan to send to in the first round? Second (if there is one)? How long should I wait for a response from you? Would you like to work with me on more projects, or are you a one night stand type of man? Nothing sours a relationship faster than colliding expectations.

1.5. Answer our questions.

2. Tell us what you expect from us up front. As far as contact goes, how often is too often? How often do you want to see another MS? Do you prefer we call, email, stop by your house with a cattle prod and a horse whip?

2.5 Answer our questions in a timely manner.

3. Expect to “be there for us.” Especially if your taking on a newbie. While you might be a seasoned pro, we aren’t. Expect to teach us a few things about the industry. Don’t like it? Tough. It’s part of your job.

3.5 Answer our questions completely.

4. Give us some idea of what to expect. By the time we’ve put our MS in your hands we’re feeling way overdue anyway. If we have realistic expectations up front, it won’t be so bad.

4.5 Answer our questions. Really. If it’s stupid, answer it anyway.

Notice something? Most of this boils down to communication. So treat it like a job interview. Tell us your part of the job and ours. Negotiate any stalemates.

And answer our questions!