If you’re serious about publishing through traditional channels, there’s one major gatekeeper you’ll need to win over first: a literary agent. Learning how to approach a literary agent UK is a deciding factor that your book will hit shelves. By doing it properly, thoughtfully, and strategically, you can also get agents to take a look at what you made.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make a strong impression, connect with the right agent, and boost your chances of getting that all-important representation.
When Should You Approach a Literary Agent?
For fiction, whether you’re writing adult novels, YA, or working with literary agents for children’s books, you should have a completed and polished manuscript. It’s not a rough draft. It’s not something you plan to finish later. Agents want to see that you’ve done the work.
If you’re writing nonfiction, most literary agents in the UK will expect a proposal. This includes a synopsis, chapter outline, target market analysis, and at least one full chapter. Nonfiction pitches are about your idea, your expertise, and your platform.
No matter your genre, showing professionalism, preparation, and persistence is key. And making sure you have everything before connecting is crucial.
How to Find the Right Agent
Finding the right fit is half the battle. You want someone who gets your book, understands the market, and believes in your potential. Here’s how to start:
- Look at the acknowledgements in books like yours to see who the agent was.
- Browse websites of fantasy literary agents in the UK, picture book literary agents, or agents who specialise in your genre.
- Use databases like QueryTracker or Publishers Marketplace to find top literary agencies in the UK.
- Attend literary festivals, webinars, and writing workshops. Some of the top literary agents for business books attend these too.
Tips to Avoid Wasting Your Shot
1. Tailor Your Submission
If you’re writing to an agent, never send a mass email. Agents can spot a generic query a mile off. Use their name. Reference books they’ve worked on. Make it clear why you’re contacting them.
2. Follow Submission Guidelines
Another thing you need to learn on how to approach a literary agent is that every agent has different preferences. Some want the first three chapters. Some want just a synopsis. Some won’t open attachments. Ignore their guidelines, and your email may not even be opened.
3. Don’t Reuse the Same Cover Letter
You can recycle parts of your letter but don’t copy-paste the whole thing. If you’re unsure how to write a cover letter for a literary agent, start with why you’ve chosen that agent and lead into a compelling pitch for your book.
What Agents Are Looking For
You might be wondering, are there really literary agents looking for new authors? Absolutely. But they’re not just looking for any manuscript, they’re looking for the right one.
Agents want:
- A strong voice
- A clear understanding of genre and audience
- A manuscript that feels ready to go
Whether you’re speaking to a literary fiction agent in the UK or someone in nonfiction, what matters most is quality and clarity.
How to Pitch a Book to a Literary Agent (Fast and Effectively)
If you’re ready to send that email, make sure it includes:
- A subject line that clearly states: Submission: Title – Genre – Word Count
- A brief personalised introduction
- A short, snappy book summary (think back-cover blurb, not full synopsis)
- Relevant bio info (writing credits, awards, expertise)
- A closing note offering the full manuscript upon request
Want more guidance? Check out our post on how to pitch a book to a literary agent for the full breakdown.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Seriously. If an agent responds and you’re unsure about the next steps, their revision process, or how submissions work at their agency, ask. It shows professionalism, not pushiness. Knowledge is power, after all.
Ending Note
Knowing how to approach a literary agent UK can be the difference between silence and a serious conversation. Do your research. Respect their process. Be clear, confident, and committed.
And if you’re feeling unsure about your pitch or how to package your submission, that’s where we come in.
At Lincoln Writes UK, we’ve helped countless authors present their best selves to agents, from polishing cover letters to shaping standout submissions. Our insider expertise helps you put your best foot forward with agents who matter.
Getting published is tough. But with the right support, you don’t have to go it alone.