Should I call a potential agent?

If anyone's bagged an agent here; did you phone them to introduce yourself? Should you?
I've seen so much conflicting advice on this topic of 'getting an agent' that I don't really know what to do. I'll phone them if it'll help me, but I'm terrified of talking on the phone; I always make an idiot out of myself! I also have the voice of a tiny child and am worried that I won't get taken seriously if they hear it haha. So if its not a good idea I'd really like to know and save myself a bit of turmoil...

I've never spoken to a publisher, but I imagine that it would be good to know what they're all about or if you're still terrified research them. But I think it would be good if you and the publisher were acquainted, I think it would make the publishing process a little easier. Or write them a letter, letters are good, and that way they can think you a respectable and responsible person by what you write.

~Angel

I find that with Literary agents, it's best to e-mail. It's more professional, and if it does end up being a scam, they don't have your phone number. Until they prove themselves to be trustworthy, keep as much information to yourself. And never, never send your work to an unreliable source. Best of luck.

-JC

JC wrote:I find that with Literary agents, it's best to e-mail. It's more professional, and if it does end up being a scam, they don't have your phone number. Until they prove themselves to be trustworthy, keep as much information to yourself. And never, never send your work to an unreliable source. Best of luck.

-JC

Excellent; that's comforting
I got the details from a reliable source so I don't think it'll be a scam, but I agree its always best to be safe. Thank you very much

Write them an email or a snail mail letter. That's how they'd like requests, and from what I know, that's how one should do it. Only call them after making their acquaintance and if they've asked you or something. ^^ Best of luck!

Thanks for your help and good wishes

Yeah... I don't think literary agents like to be called. ^^

Best of luck!

I agree with what others have said, but one more detail:

Remember that you aren't the only one being represented by this agent, and you aren't the only one requesting for them to represent you. Said agent has very little time on their hands, and phone calls usually get rushed as a result. Letters and emails aren't as urgent, so it's less annoying for the agent.

Never call a literary agent. If you want to introduce yourself and pitch your novel, email or snail mail, like JC said. The only time you'll have to call them is when you've actually signed with an agent and you're talking with them about your career and stuff.

No do not call an agent. Research any agent you find thoroughly. Each one has their own preferred contact. Some prefer email while others take only snail mail. Agents take a query and maybe a synopsis or the first five pages of your novel.