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approach. As a general rule, agents do not handle short story and article writers, who may be better served by a syndication agency. Please note, however, that in the currently shrinking magazine fiction market, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find syndication agencies that represent short story writers. Syndicating your work Many writers try their luck abroad and a reputable syndication agent can lighten the load considerably. They will sell your manuscript to as many markets as possible all over the world, keep a record of sales and save you both legwork and heavy postage costs. In return, of course, they will take a percentage, so before you hand over your manuscripts, make sure the terms are agreed in advance and in writing. Reputable syndication agencies are listed in The Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook.
KEEPING RECORDS From the day you send your first letter to an editor, you should keep a record of when and where you sent it, whether it was published and if so, how much you were paid. Informing the Inland Revenue Once payments start coming in on a regular basis, it is imperative that you have a clear record of everything you earn from writing. Bear in mind that all payments from publishing houses are put through their books so even if you don’t inform the Inland Revenue about your new source of income, your name will eventually come to their attention.