Do I Need WGA Agents?

Writers are professionals, and their literary agents should be, as well. You might find yourself initially doubtful about your need for representation, asking questions like "Do I need WGA agents?" or "Will I make less money if I involve an agent?" The truth is, you are hard-pressed to find work without a certified WGA agent--and your success will skyrocket once you do. After you understand the purpose of literary agents and the WGA, you will realize that you do, in fact, need WGA agents--and the invaluable services they provide.

The Writers Guild of America

Representing writers in the motion picture, broadcast, cable and technologies industry, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) is the most respected literary labor union. With a long list of certified agents, the WGA represents over 8,500 professional writers of films and television programs. The guild protects established writers through a conglomeration of resources, collective bargaining techniques, and contacts.

Agents must meet certain guidelines in order to be listed with the WGA. For one, they cannot charge submission costs or "reading fees," when a writer submits their work for television, cinema, or broadcast media. Furthermore, they must offer legitimate work to the writers they represent and aid writers in securing creative rights for their work.

Do I Need WGA Agents to Be Published?

While you technically do not need WGA agents to become published, it certainly helps. In fact, many editors and publishers will not read work from writers who are not represented by WGA agents. While you can try your hand at self publishing, the importance of registered agents still applies. Without proper marketing know-how and contacts, copies of many self-published books never end up leaving the writer's garage. WGA agents not only provide you with the marketing and connections that you need, but they accomplish signing in a far more timely manner than you can on your own.