One of the first things my publisher states when asked about receiving
new queries is that she tosses any query that doesn’t somewhat fit her instructions
(found on the website). And yes, while she is “the boss”, it is not a matter of
ego that guides her action. If the inquiring writer can’t be bothered to try to
follow the rules, they have demonstrated an inability to work as part of a
team. Most publishers nowadays, particularly the smaller indies, rely on that
teamwork to keep afloat.
Take the time to study the market to make sure that your work
fits. If a book publisher doesn’t publish children’s books, no matter how well
you write, they won’t be interested in a book written for eight-year-olds. Look
over a few issues of a magazine you are considering submitting to so you can be
sure that you are writing for the same audience that reads the magazine.
You can usually find instructions for submission on a
website, in a print magazine or newspaper, or in specific guides such as Writer’s
Market. Not every publisher has the same rules. Book publishers for instance
may want a simple query letter, a
detailed synopsis, the first three chapters (or 50 pages), or, upon invitation,
the entire manuscript. Some publishers will not accept un-agented submissions
at all. Also note if they specify electronic or hard copy submissions. One more
thing, while most publishers/editors are a little flexible about word counts,
you need to at least be close – if the article count is supposed to be 1000
words, 600 is not enough and 1800 is too much.
There is a reason a submissions editor will specify fonts,
type size, margins and line spacing. With the ease of electronic submissions
and electronic publishing, format is another important element. Double-spacing
lines, tabs, special characters, and graphics may not be compatible with the
chosen print process. Be thoughtful of the submission editor’s eyes as well, it
is difficult to read curly or small print or colored ink on colored paper and
it is probable yours is not the only submission he or she has to read that
night. Spraying your query or manuscript with perfume may indeed make it
memorable, it might also make it impossible for the editor to read without an
allergy attack.
Normally you will query an editor with a completed work of fiction
or an idea for a non-fiction article or book. Verify the name of the editor you
are directing your query to. If your work is complete be sure to include the
word count in your query. Especially for works of non-fiction, let the editor
know why you are qualified to write about the subject. Be clear what your idea
is and why it fits the publisher’s market, state the manner which you will use
to complete the article (if you know you can get a big name as an interviewee,
say so). Open your query with a short,
concise pitch – this pitch needs to sell your idea, your work and you. Don’t
try to tell the editor what they should think and definitely don’t tell them
what a fool they would be to pass your offer up. And do NOT make demands of
outrageous advances or terms. Keep the query letter to one page or less – and then
wait for the doors to open.
Writing exercise: Twitter is a social
networking tool which allows you up to 140 characters to make a statement,
share an idea, or even tell a story. Practice “tweeting” a pitch about your
book, about your experience, and about your ideas. Each tweet must be able to
stand independently.
Writing prompt: Make a list of ten independent keywords related to your
work that would interest the average reader to buy your book.
