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So, you’ve sent your query to that dream agent, hit “send,” and now… crickets. The waiting game is no joke, especially when your future as a published author seems to be hanging in the balance. But here’s the deal—following up with book agents is not only okay, it’s often expected (as long as it’s done right). In this article, you’ll learn the art of the follow-up without coming off as pushy or desperate.
Let’s dive into these 7 tips for following up with book agents like a pro.
Why Following Up Matters
The Agent’s Perspective
Agents are busy people. They juggle clients, manuscripts, pitches, and personal lives just like the rest of us. A gentle, well-timed nudge can help you stand out in a sea of submissions—especially if they were intrigued but forgot to reply.
Don’t Let Silence Discourage You
It’s super easy to interpret silence as rejection, but in the publishing world, it often just means your email is buried. That’s why a polite follow-up can help revive your pitch without overstepping.
Tip 1: Give It Time First
Industry Standard Response Times
Generally, agents take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks to respond to a query. Always check their submission guidelines. Some are kind enough to list average response times right on their website.
When It’s OK to Nudge
If an agent says they respond in 6 weeks and it’s been 8? Go ahead and send a gentle follow-up. Just don’t hit them up after a few days—it’ll backfire.
Tip 2: Be Polite and Professional
Stay Cool, Even If You’re Anxious
We get it. You’re excited, nervous, and possibly obsessing over every word you wrote. But when following up, take a deep breath and keep your tone calm and respectful. This is business, not a desperate text to your crush.
What to Say (and What Not to Say)
Say:
- “I just wanted to check in regarding my query…”
- “I understand you’re very busy, but I wanted to follow up…”
Don’t say:
- “Why haven’t you responded?”
- “You owe me a reply.”
See the difference?
Tip 3: Make It Short and Sweet
Sample Follow-Up Email
Here’s a simple format that works:
Subject: Query Follow-Up – [Your Book Title]
Dear [Agent’s Name],
I hope you’re well! I’m following up on my query for [Title], which I submitted on [Date]. I understand you receive a high volume of submissions and truly appreciate your time.
Thank you for considering my work.
Best regards,
[Your Name
Keep it light and professional. No novels inside your follow-up email, please.
Tip 4: Personalize the Message
Avoid the “Mass Email” Look
Agents can spot a copy-paste job from a mile away. If you mention something specific—like a manuscript wish list (MSWL) note or something from their blog—you show that you did your homework. It feels personal, not spammy.
Tip 5: Include a Quick Recap of Your Pitch
Remind Them Why They Were Interested
Agents see dozens of pitches every week. A quick reminder of your book’s hook—genre, word count, comp titles—helps them recall your submission.
Example: “This is a 75,000-word YA fantasy with shades of Six of Crows meets Legend, featuring a found family and a heist.”
That brief recap helps refresh their memory without forcing them to dig.
Tip 6: Keep Records of Your Queries
Using Spreadsheets or Query Trackers
Organization is your best friend. Use a spreadsheet to track:
- Agent name
- Date submitted
- Submission method (email/form)
- Response status
- Follow-up date
Tools for New Authors
Check out tools listed on Intuit’s Book Author Tools Tag to streamline your query process and stay on top of submissions.
Tip 7: Know When to Move On
No Response = A Kind No
Some agents are “no response means no.” If it’s been 12+ weeks and their policy supports this, consider it a pass and move on. Don’t take it personally.
Keep Submitting to Other Agents
Keep querying. Seriously. There are hundreds of agents out there, and the right one is looking for your voice. While you’re at it, sharpen your pitch using tips from the Query Tips Tag.
Author Career Development Through Persistence
Learning to Follow Up is Part of the Journey
Learning how to follow up professionally is part of your growth as a writer. Whether you’re exploring self-publishing, traditional publishing, or are somewhere in between, building resilience is key. Don’t forget to check out the author career hub for long-term strategy insights.
Following up may feel awkward now, but over time, it becomes just another part of the writing process.
Conclusion
Following up with book agents doesn’t have to feel like tiptoeing through a minefield. With patience, professionalism, and a touch of personalization, you can keep your pitch fresh in an agent’s mind without stepping on any toes. Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep refining, keep submitting, and most importantly—keep writing.
And if you’re looking for more resources on how to publish your book, or even free marketing tips, Intuit’s Book has a treasure trove waiting for you.
FAQs
1. How long should I wait before following up with a book agent?
Typically, wait at least 6–8 weeks unless their submission guidelines state otherwise.
2. What if I don’t get any response even after a follow-up?
Some agents never respond. If you’ve waited beyond their typical response time, consider it a pass and move on.
3. How do I know what to include in a follow-up email?
Keep it short, professional, and include your query date, book title, and a quick pitch reminder.
4. Is it rude to follow up with an agent?
Not if done respectfully and after a reasonable amount of time. Think of it as professional communication.
5. Can I follow up more than once?
One follow-up is usually sufficient. If you haven’t heard back after that, it’s best to let it go.
6. Should I mention other agent offers or interest in my follow-up?
Yes! If you get an offer elsewhere, let other agents know ASAP—it might move your query to the top of their pile.
7. Where can I learn more about querying and publishing?
Explore resources at Intuit’s Book, especially the tags for writing tips, independent authors, and publishing hacks.