A literary agent friend of mine mentioned that she was using video to pitch her clients to editors, and I was very excited to hear this. As a former TV producer and a media trainer, I’m a huge fan of video. It’s a unique medium and it allows you to connect with your audience in a special way. 

Think about it: Seeing a video creates a lasting impression and a sense of a person’s personality. That can go a long way in wowing agents! 

However, it’s important to go about this the right way. Professionalism is the key here. A 20-minute, blurry, rambling video is not going to do you any favors. It’s the same as when you’re doing media. I’ve helped hundreds of authors feel more confident on camera for media interviews and videos through private training and my online course Media-Ready Author. Those are all the same skills that work for query videos.

Done right, query videos can help you share your personality and stand out. If you’re planning to use video in your queries, it’s important to have a cohesive plan. Remember that using video is a lot like querying agents in general. Every person likes something different, and it all depends on what that person connects with. 

There are two situations where video can really work in your favor. One is when you’re querying agents. The other is once you have an agent and they’re communicating with book editors on your behalf. Jessica Berg, author, agent, and Agency Director of Rosecliff Literary, told me that she’s getting excited about the personal connection that video can create. 

“I think video pitches are such a smart way to close the gap between the inbox and real life, especially for nonfiction,” Berg says. “I meet so many authors at conferences, and it’s often the person, not just the idea, that hooks me. It’s their energy, clarity, the way they talk about the book that sticks just as much as the concept. Sometimes (OK, most of the time) it’s really refreshing to meet the person behind the pitch.”

Creating videos is especially useful for nonfiction authors. Fiction is its own ballgame. But in nonfiction, you, the author, are a big part of the story. Editors and agents want to know what makes you the right person to share this message. 

Here are some suggestions to get started.

1) Start with a clear and concise hook.

This is crucial. You want to start out strong so that the agent or editor watching your video is immediately interested. This is something you’ll definitely want to work out beforehand—no winging it! Try to think of one sentence that will keep your audience engaged. Attention spans are short these days, so you don’t have long to make that impression!

2) Share a compelling personal introduction.

Introduce yourself and share your personal connection to your book. You might focus on topics such as the events that led you to write this book or what about you makes you the right person to tell this story. This is your opportunity to give the agent or editor a sense of who you are and what you bring to the table. You don’t need to give your whole life story—and you shouldn’t! Just narrow it down to what is relevant to the book.  

3) Give your book pitch in one minute or less.

Long, rambling videos are not going to cut it. They might actually hurt your chances with an agent. Agents are busy and they’re not going to watch anything that eats into their time without a return on investment. That’s why you need to make sure you get right to the point. You’ll probably need to time yourself to get the time down. Cutting filler words will help you sound more professional and also help you be more concise. You still want to sound conversational, though—here are some tips on how to do that. 

4) Implement the Accordion Method for flexible, scalable pitches.

I developed the Accordion Method so that authors and experts would have a go-to strategy for media appearances. And it works just as well for videos in query letters!

The Accordion Method means having a short, medium, and long answer to every question. For each version, you need to start with a strong hook and then go into more depth depending on how much time you have to elaborate. Here’s my full guide for speaking in soundbites using the Accordion Method. 

[Read more about the Accordion Method from Paula Rizzo on WD.]

5) Set yourself up for success with video skills.

Not everyone is comfortable on camera, and that’s OK. It just takes some practice. It’s important to assess your video skills and comfort on camera so you know where you might need some help. 

Having a professional setup is essential. That means considering things like lighting and background. Plus, you’ll want to use a high-quality microphone for clear audio and make sure you choose an appropriate camera to get good video quality. I have lots of tips for creating a professional-looking at-home studio here. But… don’t get so wrapped up in trying to create professional videos that you forget about the most important aspect—the message!

Berg agrees: “The biggest takeaway for authors is you don’t need fancy edits or a perfect setup,” she says. “Just show me you get your reader, you know your angle, and you care about the work. That’s what makes me lean in.” 

6) Decide on a video sharing strategy. 

There are lots of ways to host and share videos these days. You’ll want to decide if you plan to host on YouTube, a private link, or agent-specific. 

Relatedly, it’s worth thinking about creating custom videos for each agent rather than one universal pitch. That personal touch can make all the difference. Berg believes that the personal connection is what will create leverage. Don’t be afraid to show who you are and what you bring to the table. “If I can get even a glimpse of that in a query, it’s a massive win,” Berg says. Your personality and charisma will make agents and editors remember YOU.

7) Be inspired by examples.

Now that you’re ready to use video, some examples can help you get a sense of the way authors are using this. These two examples are from already published authors, but I think it’s important to note how they do it and emulate the style in your own videos. 

Elizabeth Gilbert the author of Eat, Pray, Love and All The Way To The River, has some great examples on her Instagram. She shared a “behind the title” video that ticks all the boxes—professional, short, and warm. 

YA author Angie Thomas’s video is a great example for fiction. 

Noticing what these authors are doing—great lighting, clear communication, hooks that grab you—can inspire you to create your own videos.

If you’re ready to try using videos to woo agents and editors, remember the key elements: concise, personal, and professional. This is something I predict we’ll be seeing a lot more of!

The post Media-Savvy Author: Using Video to Woo Agents & Editors appeared first on Writer's Digest.

Connections make up all parts of writing—connecting characters to each other, connecting readers to stories, and writers connecting to agents/publishers/readers, and more. In this issue, featuring our annual roundup of literary agents and how best to connect with them, we present articles on all the types of connections mentioned here, and other ideas inspired by how our contributors connect with this theme.

Features include:

+ 2025 Annual Agent Roundup: 20+ literary agents open to queries share the details of what they want to see in their inboxes and how to submit. By Amy Jones

+ Collaborating With Readers: How to create the scaffolding readers need to enter your story. By Peter Mountford

+ Writing Bridge Characters: What they are and how to create them to advance your story, solve problems, and engage your readers. By Elizabeth Sims

+ The Midcareer Query: If you’ve had some publishing experience without an agent, is it worth it to try to find one midcareer? Absolutely. By Zac Petit

+ The WD Interview: Isabel Cañas: 2022 WD Breaking In author of The Hacienda and USA Today bestseller talks with WD about her third novel, The Possession of Alba Díaz. By Moriah Richard

+ 25th Annual WD Short Short Story Awards: Announcing the winners and showcasing the winning story.

Plus, how to write interconnected short stories, classy ways to use personal publishing connections, and finding the “write-life” balance in a hyper-connected world. And, as always, all your favorite columns like Publishing Insights, Breaking In, Meet the Agent, For All Ages, and more!

Subscribe to Writer’s Digest today for this to be your first issue!

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One unexpected effect of the global shutdown was the Writer’s Digest Annual Conference went virtual for the first time. I had the opportunity to meet with agents interested in representing my genre from the comfort of my own home. As a travel content creator, I already knew the power of conferences first hand—brand representatives are more willing to work with you after meeting you in person. It’s human nature. I figured agents would be the same way, and meeting virtually was close enough to count.

Instead of querying blind, I saw this as an opportunity to connect with agents already interested in my work. It was an investment, but I crossed my fingers and purchased my conference ticket with Virtual Pitch Slam add-on.

The agents had all reviewed my query letter beforehand and came with helpful feedback and clarity on where they stood—pass, refer me to someone else they knew, or ask for additional submission materials. This was invaluable for an author in the pitching process, where queries often go unanswered. Already, in having a response provided by each agent I was paired with, I was ahead of other authors in the process. Knowledge is power, after all.

Of the agents who requested additional materials, one stood out. She expressed a genuine interest in my story and passion for travel herself. I accepted an offer of representation.

Selling a travel memoir in the middle of a pandemic was no easy feat. There weren’t a lot of comparable books at the time, and despite the rising trend of solo travel, convincing publishers of its relevance, when the entire travel industry was uncertain, was challenging. Thankfully, my agent, Renée Fountain, President of Gandolfo Helin & Fountain Literary Management, was more than up to the task. Within six months, we had a book deal. 

My book was published on June 4, 2024, garnering favorable reviews by Kirkus Reviews. It was named a Notable Nonfiction Pick for June by Library Reads, had a full-length feature in Forbes, and won an International Latino Book Award, all within the first few months. 

Check out Jen Ruiz’s 12 Trips in 12 Months here:

Bookshop | Amazon

(WD uses affiliate links)

One big milestone was seeing my book at major national airports in Hudson Airport Booksellers. We were part of a limited time summer travel promotion. It was surreal seeing my book sharing shelf space with literary legend, Judy Blume!

I am deeply grateful to Writer’s Digest for such a transformative opportunity, and for providing a platform to emerging authors who want to stand out beyond the dreaded blind submission. I recommend the conference, especially Pitch Slam, to every aspiring author who dreams of being traditionally published.

Promoting my book on a traditional book tour, seeing my book on Barnes & Noble shelves, reading chapter excerpts to an eager audience, and appearing on television interviews was an incredibly validating experience. I hope this is just the beginning.

I’ve descended into a volcano, swam with sharks, swung off the edge of the world, and flown in a hot air balloon. Yet, my greatest adventure has been betting on myself and sharing the stories and lessons I’ve learned along the way.

The post My Home Run at the Writer’s Digest Conference Pitch Slam appeared first on Writer's Digest.

Currently Seeking

Fiction: I am looking for fantasy manuscripts, particularly romantasy! I also love new adult, magical realism, dark academia, historical fiction and retellings, and family sagas. For romance, I am more intrigued if the setting is historical or unique.

The most important thing for me when reading a manuscript is to connect with the protagonist. I often find myself connecting to vulnerable protagonists who discover their strengths. Overall, I love stories with a compelling hook, an emphasis on character development, high stakes, and plot twists.

I welcome manuscripts with diverse voices from all backgrounds and marginalized communities.

Nonfiction: I am interested in historical narratives with compelling storytelling (preferably related to wartime), and works on spirituality and esoteric topics.

How to Submit

I exclusively represent non-illustrated adult fiction and nonfiction. Although I love young adult books, I do not represent them.

Please use the link below to fill out a short query form and attach the first three chapters of your manuscript. If you would like, you can include a short synopsis.

https://querymanager.com/query/3561

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One of the most magical things about writing is the wonder it can inspire. In this issue, we hope to celebrate the wonder of writing and how writing can evoke a sense of wonder in readers of all ages.

Features Include:

The Annual Agent Roundup: Consistently one of our most popular features, the Annual Agent Roundup showcases 20+ literary agents who are open to submissions along with their preferences and details for how writers can query them. By Amy Jones

The WD Interview: Jesse Q. Sutanto: The bestselling author of the Dial A for Aunties series sat down with WD to talk about her August 2024 suspense novel, You’ll Never Be Me. By Amy Jones

Everyday Wonder: How to Mine Awe From the Mundane: Sarah Chauncey offers 5 techniques (with examples) for how to evoke wonder of commonplace experiences in your writing. By Sarah Chauncey

Childhood: Our Touchstone for Wonder: Elizabeth Sims shares tips and prompts for getting in touch with “Little You” to create big new work for today. By Elizabeth Sims

From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Unveil the hidden beauty in facts and transform your nonfiction with the power of wonder. By Ryan G. Van Cleave

The WD 23^rd Short Short Story Awards: Karin Patton: WD shares the winning story, “Fountain of Ruth,” in its entirety, along with the top 10 winners, and a Q&A with winner Karin Patton. By Moriah Richard

Profile: Meg Medina: Kids’ author and Newbery Medal winner Meg Medina inspires readers as the Ambassador of Young People’s Literature. By Don Vaughan

Additional articles include an interview with middle-grade Newbery Honor winner Jasmine Warga, 8 ways to improve your memoir, tips for self-editing, and the basics of adapting books to film. Plus, all of your favorite columns including Writers on Writing by Mona Susan Power, Agent Alcove by Rachel Letofsky, Meet the Agent, Breaking In, Publishing Insights, and much more.

Subscribe to Writer’s Digest to never miss an issue!

The post Writer’s Digest September/October 2024 Cover Reveal appeared first on Writer's Digest.

Deidra is drawn to well-told stories with fresh viewpoints. Whether fiction or nonfiction, she gravitates toward engaging, thoughtful, and creative first-rate narrative and out-of-the box perspectives that help us laugh, dream, heal, and grow (and go) forward.

A Qualified Administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI), Deidra lives in Connecticut.

Currently Seeking

Deidra loves a well-told story with a fresh viewpoint. Whether fiction or nonfiction, she gravitates toward engaging, first-rate narrative and out-of-the box perspectives.

She is particularly interested in stories written by and for women and people of color, and in topics that explore identity, gender, and sexuality at the intersection of culture and faith. These stories should help us laugh, dream, heal, and grow (and go) forward.

Deidra looks for thoughtfulness and creativity with regard to time, place, and small details that matter.

How to Submit

If you would like Deidra to review your query or book proposal and be considered for literary representation, visit emboldenmediagroup.com/deidra-riggs for submission guidelines or send your query to Deidra at deidra.riggs@emboldenmediagroup.com.

The post New Agent Alert: Deidra Riggs of Embolden Media Group appeared first on Writer's Digest.

As a co-creator, book editor, and workshop presenter, Myles has had the honor of working with diverse groups of aspiring writers, helping many become published authors.

Currently Seeking

Mytecia is looking for nonfiction submissions in the following categories:

• Autobiography and biography
• Academic (essays, case studies, monographs, digital media/journalism, strategic media, and AI)
• Beauty, natural health, and wellness
• Business, entrepreneurship, career, and leadership
• Christian lifestyle, faith, spiritual growth, prayer and intercession, spiritual gifts, healing, meditation, mindfulness
• Creative/narrative nonfiction
• Memoir (written by BIPOC)
• Relationships
• Self-help/personal growth
• Women’s issues, inspiration, and stories written by women

She also seeks fiction in the following categories:

• Biographical fiction
• Historical fiction
• Travel/destination

And for children’s writing, she seeks picture books and social topics.

How to Submit

If you would like Mytecia to review your query or book proposal and be considered for literary representation, visit emboldenmediagroup.com/mytecia-myles for submission guidelines or send your query to Mytecia at mytecia.myles@emboldenmediagroup.com.

The post New Agent Alert: Mytecia Myles of Embolden Media Group appeared first on Writer's Digest.

Kathy has written three books on prayer. Her books have opened doors to interviews on Atlanta Live, TBN, and Daystar, and numerous radio shows and podcasts. Kathy is passionate about advocating for ministry and marketplace leaders who bring life-transforming messages to faith-based audiences.

Currently Seeking

Kathy enjoys reading captivating inspirational narratives that encourage spiritual growth and enrichment. She loves to see creative storytelling intersect with biblical truth.

Kathy is looking for nonfiction works on topics such as prayer and inner healing, soul care, mental health, health and wellness, marriage and family relationships, self-help, teen and women devotionals, and personal memoirs.

Children’s picture books that impart life lessons are also of interest.

How to Submit

If you would like Kathy to review your query or book proposal to be considered for literary representation, visit emboldenmediagroup.com/kathy-green for submission guidelines or send your query to Kathy at kathy.green@emboldenmediagroup.com.

The post New Agent Alert: Kathy Green of Embolden Media Group appeared first on Writer's Digest.

She has a passion for amplifying the voices and stories of BIPOC writers and thrives when helping others cultivate their creative voice. Joylanda takes the utmost care in guiding authors along their writing journey and ensures that their story remains an authentic reflection of themselves.

Currently Seeking

Joylanda is currently seeking poetry, fiction, and nonfiction for adults and children.

Joylanda loves poetry that takes the mundane moments of life and transforms them into captivating moments of reflection. Traditional forms as well as free and/or experimental verse are welcomed. Accessible language is highly favored over loftiness (unless done for intentional, artistic purposes). Abstract concepts need to be grounded with concrete images.

She is especially interested in memoirs that center the voices and experiences of people of color.

Christian romance novels that have dynamic, complex characters and don’t rely solely on the main love interest to drive the plot forward.

Joylanda loves early reader and picture books that highlight the unique aspects of one’s culture in a way that is fun and invitational to young minds.

How to Submit

If you would like Joylanda to review your query or book proposal and be considered for literary representation, visit emboldenmediagroup.com/joylanda-jamison for submission guidelines or send your query to her at joylanda.jamison@emboldenmediagroup.com.

The post New Agent Alert: Joylanda Jamison of Embolden Media Group appeared first on Writer's Digest.

She recently served as editorial director for Baker Books for 10 years, where she had the privilege of developing many award-winning authors, including NYT-bestselling author Mo Isom, Sheila Walsh, Sheri Hunter, Ruth Graham, Greg Laurie’s Jesus Revolution, and Wendy Speake’s The 40-Day Sugar Fast.

Her love of books, passion for storytelling, and commitment to supporting talented authors continue to be a driving force in her work. Rebekah lives with her family in Colorado.

Currently Seeking

Rebekah loves compelling concepts, culturally significant trade books, and writers with wonderful storytelling abilities.

In nonfiction, she is seeking authors writing in categories such as memoir & biography, narrative nonfiction; business, career development, personal time management; advice and relationships; mental health & wellness, mindfulness, self-help, personal growth; home decorating, organization; inspirational and religion & spirituality. She particularly responds to books that have an important cultural, social, or psychological focus, as well as young adult voices.

Rebekah also looks for select gift books, lifestyle, or photography-driven books.

In fiction, she is interested in select upmarket, literary, and book club fiction, and stories that offer a new twist or retelling of some kind.

For children’s books, she focuses primarily on YA and middle grade, and her tastes vary broadly in those areas. She also considers select children’s picture books.

How to Submit

Writers can submit a query letter to rebekah.vonlintel@emboldenmediagroup.com and find more information at https://emboldenmediagroup.com/literary-representation.

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