Agency Quote by Charles Stross
“I wanted an agent who would actually sell stuff. After two British agents failed comprehensively, I was reading Locus (the SF field's trade journal) and noticed a press release about an experienced editor leaving her job to join an agent in setting up a new agency. And I went "aha!" - because what you need is an agent who knows the industry but who doesn't have a huge list of famous clients whose needs will inevitably be put ahead of you. So I emailed her, and ... well, 11 years later I am the client listed at the top of her masthead!”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Locus Magazine, 2005
Finding an agent who knows the industry but prioritizes you leads to long‑term success.
In simple terms: Industry‑savvy, client‑focused representation works.
Key Takeaway
Seek agents who balance expertise with personal attention.
Themes
career
networking
trust
mentorship
Mood
hopeful
confident
Type
advice
inspirational
When to use this quote
- publishing negotiations
- career advancement
- finding representation
Key Concepts
industry knowledge
client focus
agency dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you evaluate an agent’s commitment to you?
- What signs indicate genuine advocacy?
A Different Perspective
Agents with many big clients may neglect smaller ones.
![“We have no clear ideas of the agency of [demonic] spirits, nor is it necessary. The Scripture says little to satisfy our curiosity; but tells us plainly that he is always watching us, and desiring to sift us as wheat. I believe we give him no more than his due, when we charge him with having a…” quote by John Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c75/john-newton-6629_abundance_we-have-no-clear-ideas-of-the-agency-of_2907.jpg)
