If you’ve sent your query to a handful of literary agents and one comes back asking you for an exclusive, don’t get nervous!

So, what exactly is an exclusive? If you’ve sent your query to a literary agent and he or she asks for an exclusive, it just means that the agent wants a chance to review your manuscript before anyone else can see it. It’s a good thing, and it puts you in a great position.

But, as with anything requiring such a commitment, there’s the potential of a snafu popping up here or there. Worry not! We’ve got some helpful solutions for you should a problem arise.

Tips for following submission guidelines

Often, writers e-mail us with variations on the same question: How can I get a literary agent for a self-published book?

Dear Writer’s Relief,

I self-published my book [enter number of months ago] and now I’m [A) Not happy with my publishing company or distribution B) Disappointed because I’m not getting any sales of my self-published book and/or C) Thinking of expanding my already successful efforts by getting a literary agent and a traditional publisher for my self-published book]. Can you please tell me whether or not I can send my self-published book to literary agents and editors?

While each author who has self-published is in a unique situation and there is no single answer for every writer, it is possible to submit your self-published book to literary agents.

If you do want to transition from self-publishing to traditional publishing, here are some tips for getting a literary agent.

Whether you’re new to the writing biz or a seasoned veteran, there’s no escaping the fact that your work is going to get rejected at some point by someone—or perhaps many someones.

The fact is, you can’t control whether or not a literary agent or editor accepts your work. What you can control is the quality of the work in question and how you go about sending it out. Hone your craft and submit great writing that will make it just a little bit harder for people to say no.

Here are a few tips on how to make quality submissions and turn those rejections into acceptances.

At Writer’s Relief, we’re always thrilled when a client connects with a literary agent. It’s not easy to score agent representation, but it does happen. Today, we offer our five best pieces of advice that can help you get a literary agent for your book.

While the tips we offer here may seem simplistic, there’s a difference between something that’s simple and something that’s fundamental. Good writers know the power of revisiting their technique. In fact, some successful writers we know regularly take “Writing 101” types of classes, just to keep their fundamentals fresh.

So before you write off these five tips as “easy,” be sure to give them serious consideration.