You've likely heard the quote that "you only have one chance to make a first impression."
I get e-mails from writer friends and am shocked by their inability to craft even a simple sentence with capital letters and a period.
This is never truer than in a query letter. Remember to be completely professional - do not use the editor's first name in the salutation. Also, ensure that your spelling is flawless.
First, KNOW about the publication in which you wish to publish. If your article deals with health, does the magazine have a health section? Are the health-related articles very short or half a page? Where would your article "fit?" Suggest that to the editor in your query. And please address the editor by Mr Whomever or Ms Whomever and not Dear Editor. Again, this shows you did your homework.
There are three main parts to a good query.
1) Introduction - grab the editor's attention without being "showy." An example of a good intro is this: After four months of treating my under active thyroid with prescription medication, I realized that my doctor was prescribing the wrong medication for my type of disorder.
That would grab MY attention.
2) Give the editor a brief outline of the subject you wish to cover. Also give him or her an idea of how you plan to present it.
3) Offer a short bio of yourself - as a writer. If possible, enter a link to your Web pages (with examples of your published writing included in the site) at the close of your e-mail.
End with a structure like this: I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
It's simple, really. A few of my writer friends are petrified of writing query letters. These notes are merely article suggestions, presented in a professional manner.
Enjoy this "business end" of the writing craft. Anything that takes you out of your comfort zone is character-building.
rate
email
print
link to this page
Comments: 15
A very helpful article, as I am one of those writers uncertain about how to approach query letters.
I especially liked your stressing the importance of formality in the letter. With so many communications handled by email, I think many have forgotten the importance of a formal communication.
Also, I think you gave an important reminder about including your website in the query.
Thanks for the good info!
Jan
What is your opinion of starting a query letter (for genre fiction) with a creative 'hook' instead of an introductory paragraph and request-to-read? Many letters begin with something like, "I'd like to invite you to consider my novel, Excellent Queries (?), a 50,000 word etc. etc. etc."
Some, though, begin with a 'hooking' first line about the book in question, followed by a brief paragraph summary. "The War Between the States had given Robert Smith a medal but had taken away his reason for living." (That's a really poor sentence, looking at it now, but I'll leave it in as a rough idea of my meaning.)
Thanks for the post. I've actually never begun a query with a hook. I've seen so many that were "cheesy" or that start with a melodramatic question. I know you've heard some, as well.
Example: "Did Ellen mean to ruin her marriage? To torture her husband of 21 years?"
I guess one of the main reasons I don't begin queries with a question or statement (concerning the story) is b/c I want that editor to know I respect her - by not insulting her intelligence with a goofy intro question and by structuring my query in a business-like form. If I begin my letter with a professional tone, perhaps the recipient will return that respect AND read further.
However, I think you can begin a query with a statement like you made earlier. If I were an editor, that type of sentence wouldn't turn me off.
So, I'd say either way is fine. Just steer clear of the melodramatic questions that make the reader feel like you assume he's an idiot.
;-) Just my opinion.
I don't suppose you would consider doing more in depth article on this would you? For fiction queries? You have such a calm but clear way of presenting things. I have learned much by trial and error. The good thing is, I do write a professional letter. I am a professional and I want to be viewed in that way. What you outline is just a good business letter and you highlight the formality that business letter should have.
Thanks for sharing. I will be checking in frequently to see what your topics are.
Sylvia
Thank you for the kind words. I am researching the subject of query letters now, actually.
I'm putting together some resource sheets for writers (www.shortsheetsforwriters.com)
and am doing number 13 on query letters. :o)
So, I'll let you know when this particular one is "ready."
Since I'm having to spend most of my time polishing the first dozen Short Sheets, it may be a few weeks.
You sound like an interesting lady to know - and a neighbor (MO).
Have a good one -
~Lea~
You give a positive spin on my endeavor. :-)
I fired out a query today after not making it into round two. I'm happy to see that I followed your instructions.
I've been researching cover letter format today. SUCH interestng topics, eh? ;-)
Now, I want a free heavy metal CD by Infamous Sinphony.