Independent Literary Agent (Contract)
Role Title: Independent Literary Agent (Contract) Company: Author.Direct https://author.direct Compensation: 50% commission per closed deal (typical deal size: $1,000) Location: Remote About Author.Direct Author.Direct helps authors turn their books into dynamic, revenue-generating digital ecosystems. We build high-converting companion pages, connect readers to books and courses, and unlock ongoing monetization through a clean, modern author presence. Our model is simple: we succeed when authors succeed. Role Overview We are looking for a driven, entrepreneurial Independent Literary Agent to identify, connect with, and onboard authors to Author.Direct. This is not a traditional publishing role. You are not selling manuscripts—you are helping authors unlock more value from books they’ve already written. You will act as a hybrid of:
- literary agent
- business development partner
- author growth advisor
What You’ll Do
- Identify and research authors (self-published, hybrid, traditionally published)
- Conduct outreach via LinkedIn, email, and other channels
- Start conversations and qualify fit
- Educate authors on Author.Direct’s services and value proposition
- Close deals for companion page builds and add-ons
- Maintain a lightweight pipeline of prospects and active conversations
What You’re Selling Typical engagements include
- Companion Pages (core offering)
- Course integrations
- Expanded author ecosystems
Average deal size: ~$1,000 Your commission: ~$500 per deal
Compensation
- 50% commission on all closed deals
- No cap on earnings
- Paid per closed and collected deal
This role is best suited for individuals comfortable operating in a performance-based environment with uncapped upside. Ideal Candidate You are
- Highly self-directed and comfortable working independently
- Strong communicator (written and verbal)
- Naturally curious about books, authors, and ideas
- Comfortable with outbound outreach (LinkedIn, email, etc.)
- Interested in startups, media, or creator ecosystems
Bonus if you have:
- Experience in publishing, agencies, or creator economy platforms
- Existing network of authors or creators
- Sales or business development experience
What Success Looks Like
- Consistent outreach and pipeline generation
- 2–5 closed deals per month (baseline target)
- Clear, confident articulation of Author.Direct’s value
- Positive author relationships and repeat opportunities
Why This Role Exists Most authors leave significant value on the table after publishing. You help them change that.
How to Apply
Send a short note including:
- Why this role interests you
- Any relevant experience (authors, sales, startups, etc.)
- Optional: links to your LinkedIn or past work
Note: This is a contractor role. There is no base salary—compensation is entirely commission-based.